A westbound BNSF manifest heavy in unfinished steel, I-beams and tank cars climbs the 2% grade thru South Boulder Canyon. The train has 5 big motors, configured 3x2. The railroad has followed South Boulder Creek since leaving Tunnel 8 several miles back. When the railroad reaches Pinecliffe in about 1 mile, the creek will be at grade level. The steepness of the creek is the reason Moffat utilized the 10 degree curves at Rocky (Arena) to gain elevation so the climb along South Boulder Creek would be more manageable.