Eagle Cap Excursion Train, Railway excursion in Elgin, United States.
The Eagle Cap Excursion Train travels along a 38-mile track between Elgin and Minam through the Grande Ronde and Wallowa River valleys in Northeast Oregon. The route follows river canyons and remote woodlands that are largely inaccessible by road, offering views of steep canyon walls, dense forests, and rugged terrain throughout the journey.
The railroad was originally built as the Joseph Branch to connect remote timber operations with markets in the valleys below. Today it is owned and operated by Wallowa and Union Counties, with the nonprofit organization Friends of the Joseph Branch handling its maintenance and restoration.
The train offers specialized trips that focus on local timber history, telling stories about loggers, mill towns, and how the railroad shaped Northeast Oregon. Guides share how this industry built communities and connected remote areas that had few other transportation options.
The Elgin Depot has indoor and outdoor waiting areas, restrooms, parking, historical exhibits, and a gift shop before departure. It is wise to bring layers and water since the train passes through exposed mountain sections that can be windy and cool, even on warm days.
During autumn excursions, passengers can watch seasonal color changes while traveling through remote areas accessible only by rail along the Grande Ronde River. This time of year also brings good chances to spot wildlife such as deer and eagles that nest in the surrounding mountains.
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