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Montana Rockies Rail Tours recently announced it will suspend Montana Daylight tour train operations for the 2005 season.

During the hiatus, railroad officials plan to re-examine Montana Rockies’ strategy and develop a plan to deal with rising fuel and insurance costs. Officials expect to have a new plan in place by spring 2005 and begin selling tickets for the 2006 season.

The tourist railroad plans to develop new partnerships and seek additional marketing opportunities while maintaining all industry relationships and organization memberships, according to a prepared statement. The railroad also plans to maintain rolling stock and keep several employees on board during the hiatus to help develop a strategy.

"We are looking at other markets with a larger population base and easier air accessibility to extend our operating season," said Montana Rockies Rail Tours President and Chief Executive Officer Marcia Pilgeram. "The industry is lean today and clearly we need to build relationships with other travel entities that can help us create a total package."