Discover the scenic beauty of Wallowa County aboard a vintage railcar with Joseph Branch Railriders. This 1-hour trip offers breathtaking mountain views and wildlife sightings. Read more to find out why this ride is a must-do in Oregon’s wilds!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all ages
Wildlife
History
The rail line was originally part of a vital transportation route in early 20th-century Oregon, now repurposed for scenic tourism.
Conservation
Joseph Branch Railriders prioritizes eco-conscious operations, minimizing rail disturbance and promoting local wildlife preservation.
Joseph Branch Railriders
Discover the scenic beauty of Wallowa County aboard a vintage railcar with Joseph Branch Railriders. This 1-hour trip offers breathtaking mountain views and wildlife sightings. Read more to find out why this ride is a must-do in Oregon’s wilds!
Joseph Branch Railriders is a railriding operator based in Joseph, Oregon, offering railbike excursions through Wallowa County’s scenic corridors. The business features four distinct trips: Mountains Edge 1 Hour Round Trip, Valley Sights 2 Hour Round Trip, River Escape 3 Hour Round Trip, and Water Canyon 4 Hour Round Trip. Each route highlights different landscape elements—from pine forests and mountain overlooks to river canyons and riverside picnic spots.
The Valley Sights trip covers a twelve-mile round trip through valley terrain with views of the Wallowa Mountains. The Water Canyon route is a twenty-mile round trip that follows the Wallowa River alongside towering rock cliffs. The River Escape route travels through a canyon to the confluence of the Wallowa and Grande Ronde Rivers, with a rest at Howard Creek. The Mountains Edge option delivers a shorter, one-hour experience that includes depot goodies at the start or finish.
All trip summaries note scenic viewing and potential wildlife sightings such as deer and elk; riders should plan accordingly. Joseph Branch Railriders lists clear durations and distances for each option so visitors can match trip selection to schedule and fitness level. Located in the town of Joseph, the business provides direct access to Wallowa County’s outdoor attractions and transportation corridors. Those seeking a short nature ride, a midday escape, or a longer canyon journey can choose a suitable option from the published trip list. The business is presented as a local experiential activity for visitors to Joseph and Wallowa County today.
Location
Joseph, OR
Located in Wallowa County, Oregon
Trips Offered
4 Trips
One- to four-hour railrides
Trip Durations
1–4 hours
Range of one- to four-hour rides
Depot Goodies
Available
Mentioned on Mountains Edge trip
Book a 1–4 hour ride to experience Wallowa Mountains scenery, river canyon stretches, and depot highlights.
Bring layers and snacks
Weather can change quickly in the mountains; dress in layers and pack snacks for the ride.
Arrive early for the best seats
Getting to the depot early ensures a choice of preferred seating and a more relaxed start.
Respect wildlife and landscapes
Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid littering to preserve the area’s natural integrity.
Prepare for potential motion sickness
If sensitive to motion, consider taking remedies beforehand, especially for children.
Hat and sunglasses
Protect yourself from sun glare and UV rays during the trip.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and wildlife sightings along the route.
Light jacket
Add a layer for cooler mountain breezes.
spring|fall|winter
Binoculars
Get a closer look at distant wildlife and landscape details.