The best train experience, few as we've had, that we have ever had. The train was in excellent condition, just don't try and adjust the window shade. The volunteers were kind, helpful, informative, and fun. Max was a hoot.
Our trip was the 3.5 hour "Fall Colors" excursion. While many of the trees in this area are evergreen, a lot of the smaller bushes, grasses, and other plants still provide a bountiful cornucopia of color.
Entering the train, seats are first come first served. One thing I loved about this ride is how they handled the view. To ensure everyone received views of the river side, passengers switch sides before making the return trip. If you want to get some different views, you are permitted to go look out the open windows between cars or you can go to the baggage car that has large open windows on either side. It makes for a fantastic experience.
This trip included a meal at the return point. We elected for the chicken almond salad. It was good, with the highlight being the pumpkin spice cupcake for dessert. Other food options were a taco salad (vegan it non-vegan), ham and cheese sandwich, and a standard house salad.
If you want to get some pictures or video without any photo bombers, meal time is ideal. While everyone is eating, go to your favorite spots to get some pictures and videos. It is an ideal time to do so.
For overnight stays in the area: May's Place Bed and Breakfast is where we stayed for the night. In downtown Elgin, it is a quaint place that is within walking distance of the train station. You'll need to book another night if you don't want to check out before leaving for the train. Elgin is near LA Grande, with lots of hotels. If you want to be more budget friendly, Wallowa Lake State Park is less than an hour away and has RV and tent spots starting at just over $20/night. If you are in an RV, be aware that parking is minimal at the train station and most spots will not accommodate an RV or a trailer of any kind.
Overall, this trip is incredible and we plan on going on some of their other trips next year. I highly recommend looking through their offerings and finding one that interests you. You won't be...
Read moreA great experience to ride on the historic Joseph Branch Rail Line along the Grande Ronde River to the junction of the Wallowa River.
The conductor asked me if I wanted to ride in the locomotive car of the train for the first part of the trip.
It was interesting to find out how a train operates with a great view along the way.
The train engineers were very friendly and showed me different wildlife along the river.
The special theme of this trip was an old west train robbery was the with cowboys on horses shooting their guns.
The train travels at ten miles an hour along the steep curves and heavy timber of the Grande Ronde River.
It is possible to see wildlife and birds if you look along the river area.
Located on Depot Street in Elgin near the Wallowa Lake Highway.
Reservations are required on their website.
The special themed trip took about four hours roundtrip.
A very unique experience to ride on a historic train route with a number of different themes throughout the year with friendly staff, great views and memories that will...
Read moreMy wifes birthday is in October and i wanted to do something different and special she had mentioned in the past she would someday take a train ride so in August i started looking into one i found eagle cap excursion on line it was close enough to us that i gave them a call to see what i needed to do to make this happen when i called and and explained what i wanted to do and that i have never planned anything like this before and it was a surprise for my wife here's what happened now mind you these are all volunteers i was treated with the most respect and helpfullness i have ever encountered it took a couple of phone calls i wasn't prepared to get everything set up and tickets bought on the day of the ride and we got there they all went out of their way to say happy birthday to my wife max the conductor showed us the train and explained about its history it was an awesome day the whole group made everyone feel special i couldn't have planed it any better and i want to thank the whole group for what they do and max i will always trust you...
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