Do you have a little builder, or architect in your household? Well, I'm afraid I might have encouraged a bit too much creative play in my son. I usually wake to choo choo sounds, such as "Beep, beep, hullo Percy!" This comes in the best high flatulent Harold the Helicopter voice my 3-year old can muster. William's a little obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine, and the characters that live on the fictional Island of Sodor. I'm not so sure "It's a good thing, as it's costing me an arm, and a leg.

The Mountain Tunnel is part of the Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway System. Many of the tunnels, and bridges in the line are included in complete sets, but this tunnel is only featured in the Mountain Tunnel Set reviewed here. It's also sold separately, and includes the following items in the box:
● The Mountain Tunnel
● Two - 2” Track Adapters (MM)

The Mountain Tunnel is striking. It's the largest bridge, and tunnel combination in the line, and boasts of three levels of play. The first is a tunnel, which is on the ground level. The second is a tunnel crossing at mid-level, and it connects to Ascending Tracks on both sides. The highest level is the mountain bridge that runs perpendicular to the tunnels, and crosses over them at the top. The mountain climbs to 6 1/2" at its peak, and runs 30" in length, which is about the length of a small umbrella.

The tunnel is made of kiln-dried maple wood. The drying process helps the wood resist dents and dings. There are no rough edges, as all the pieces are sanded smooth. The Mountain Tunnel comes in three separate pieces: the bridge/tunnel center section, and the mountain pieces, which fall on either side. It's very simple to assemble, as the central piece has female adapters, and the mountain sections are male.

The mountain parts are slightly wider than the 1 1/2" Thomas Track as hardboard is attached on both sides to stabilize the set. Attached to the hardboard is paper appliques that represent a picturesque countryside with flowers in the forefront. The hardboard is cut in wavy patterns along the top to create the appearance of rolling hills. This particular element is especially effective in conveying a mountainous scene. The center section features rustic rock wall appliques, and red bridge railings. The appliques are extremely durable, and add to the imaginary play. We haven't had any pealing, or tearing in 10-months.


Our Thoughts:
My son received the Mountain Tunnel Set as an introduction to the Thomas & Friends wooden line of products. Considering the Mountain Tunnel is the focus of the set, it's been a favorite piece. Since that time, William's received other destinations, yet for months he preferred the tunnel stay on the table. Now that he's added an Expansion Pack, the Mountain Tunnel has taken a backseat to some of the other bridges, and destinations.

The tunnel is a fun piece to add to any set, but I warn shoppers that it is BIG. Measure your available space before purchasing. Also, in order for the railway cars to reach the second level of play one must possess a pair of Ascending Tracks. In addition, the Ascending Track Risers, which support the track are recommended as well. The manufacturer does not state this anywhere in the product packaging. The suggested retail price for the Ascending Tracks is $11.99, and $4.99 for the risers. These are certainly worthwhile pieces as other bridges and destinations require them; however, it does add up if you don't happen to own them. Plus, it irks me that they don't mention that they are required. The Mountain Tunnel retails for $49.99, but I've seen it offered at on-line sites for as low as $38.99.

As I mentioned in my review of the set, the track will fall off the Ascending Track Risers. I was able to rectify this by placing a small piece of satin finish giftwrap tape under the track, so it would adhere to the risers. Now, anytime we layout the set with the Ascending Track I make sure the tape is ready, and waiting.

On a sad note, I recently learned that Learning Curve has been purchased by RC2 Corporation. The new company has withdrawn their promise to loyal customers all over the world, and they have abolished the unconditional guarantee for life. Luckily, this bridge and tunnel set is mostly made of wood, and there’s basically no need for replacement parts, except for maybe the plastic railings. That said, much of the wooden line today is plastic. The track, the engines, and the roadway vehicles are still made of wood, but the buildings, and the destinations are primarily made of plastic. The board is wood, but all the workings, and most of the structure is plastic. I’ve already had several issues with plastic parts breaking on destinations, and RC2 Corporation won’t replace them, or even repair them for a fee. I’m so dismayed that the RC2 Corporation has chosen this path, especially on such high-priced goods, that I have opted to support the competition, Brio, and Maxim. Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway System provides excellent imaginary play, and it's developmental, but I caution all potential consumers that the new guarantee last 90-days. That's it!

RC2 Corporation
1111 W 22nd Street, Ste 320
Oak Brook, Illinois 60523
1-800-704-8697
www.learningcurve.com



Additional Thomas & Friends Reviews:
Coal Loader
Grain Loader
Barrel Loader
Wellsworth Station
Abbey Repair Shop
Cargo Transfer Station
Deluxe Cranky the Crane
NEW Mountain Tunnel Set
Thomas & Friends Editorial
Mr. Jolly's Chocolate Factory
Take-Along Sodor Engine Works



Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): Came w/ set
Type of Toy: Trains
Age Range of Child: 3 to 5 Years