How do I make a fake river?

This is easier than you think Woodland Scenics (http://www.woodlandscenics.com/) makes products that simulate water. They are very easy to use and can be molded/shaped to any form you want. Simply layout your river bed with rocks, dead trees and such. Set the banks as you wish. Prepare the woodlandscenics product, and pour. As the "water" begins to harden, give it a ripple effect around the rocks and such. It is really easy. Just visit their site or search for Model Railroading Sites they have a lot of experience with making rivers and lakes etc. Hope this helps!

Try this link (you may have to log in first!)

http://www.trains.com/Forums/MessageList.asp?messageid=674§ionid=88&threadid=106&sname=Model%20Railroading&threadname=First+time+%22water%22+maker%2Dbest+way%3F

http://www.armorama.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=printpage&artid=42

- Snacko

MANY years ago, I had a model railway and decied that I'd like a river

A river bed was chiselled out of the (chipboard) baseboard and prepared. Then a tin of |Polyurethan varnis was poured in and allowed to set.
Despite the fact that a lot of the varnish soaked through and dripped onto my bedroom carpet (sorry mum!), the resulting river actually looked very good, having rippled as it set and taking on a sort of 'dirty water' colour.

nice!!