Fall in Oregon is a magical time and there’s no better way to soak in the season than with a ride on the historic Sumpter Valley Railroad. As the weather cools and leaves in Northeast Oregon turn vibrant shades of gold, these vintage trains offer a one-of-a-kind journey through the heart of the picturesque Sumpter Valley, making it a must-do experience for anyone visiting the area.
Take A Journey By Rail Back To Simpler Times
Step aboard the Sumpter Valley Railroad and prepare to be whisked away on a nostalgic trip through Oregon’s scenic gold country. The railroad, which stretches from McEwen to the historic mining town of Sumpter, brings history to life with every chug of its steam engines. Originally built in the 1890s to haul timber, this narrow-gauge railway played a crucial role in the development of Eastern Oregon. While the original line once spanned over 80 miles, today’s riders can still enjoy a beautifully restored section, thanks to the dedicated efforts of volunteers who have been preserving this piece of history since 1971.
The round-trip journey from McEwen typically takes just over two hours, including a stopover in either McEwen or Sumpter, giving you ample time to explore or simply relax.
For those who are looking for a shorter experience, there are 45-minute trips from the Sumpter depot on select weekends.
Take A Special Fall Ride With Sumpter Valley Railroad
This fall, the Sumpter Valley Railroad has a couple of special events that make it an even more enticing trip. For those that love fall foliage and photography, you'll want to check out the Fall Foliage Express.
Scheduled for October 18th through the 20th, the Fall Foliage Express is a dream come true for those looking to see vibrant yellow and orange fall colors.
Bring your camera and capture the stunning autumn colors set against the backdrop of historic steam and diesel locomotives.
It’s an opportunity to snap some unforgettable fall photos and to take a memorable ride.
The young and young at heart will want to get ready for some spooky fun on October 26th and 27th with the Halloween Express. This event is perfect for families, with short 45-minute round trips departing from Sumpter. Expect Halloween treats and a festive atmosphere as you ride through the valley, with the option to choose between night-time or daylight journeys. Keep an eye out for ghosts and goblins—you never know what might pop up on these eerie rides!
Is the railroad operational every day of the week? The Sumpter Valley Railroad operates on select weekends.
Where are the train stations on the Sumpter Valley Railroad? The McEwen Depot is located just 23 miles southwest of Baker City, while the Sumpter Station sits in the scenic Dredge State Heritage Area, about six miles from McEwen. Both stations are easily accessible and offer a charming starting point for your autumn adventure.
Sumpter Valley Railroad Information
Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking to enjoy a beautiful fall day in Oregon, the Sumpter Valley Railroad is the place to be.
Get up to date hours, dates and prices, as well as train tickets at the Sumpter Valley Railroad website.
Tip: These rides fill up quickly, so don’t wait too long to book your tickets and secure your spot on one of the most picturesque train journeys our state has to offer.
