Follow the Wallowa River corridor on a 3-hour biking trip with Joseph Branch Railriders. Experience canyon cliffs, pristine waters, and wildlife on this accessible route designed for a refreshing nature break.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders in good general physical health with basic cycling ability.
Wildlife
History
The rail trail follows the old Joseph Branch railroad corridor, which once connected rural communities in Wallowa County.
Conservation
Joseph Branch Railriders emphasizes low-impact use to protect riparian habitats and supports local conservation efforts.
Joseph Branch Railriders
Follow the Wallowa River corridor on a 3-hour biking trip with Joseph Branch Railriders. Experience canyon cliffs, pristine waters, and wildlife on this accessible route designed for a refreshing nature break.
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.
Pack water and snacks
There’s a rest at Howard Creek, but no shops on the trail—bring enough hydration and food.
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures vary quickly in the canyon; layers allow for comfort during warm rides and cool stops.
Watch for wildlife
Stay alert for deer, marmots, and possibly bears—respect their space and do not feed animals.
Bring a helmet and basic repair kit
Helmet use is recommended; having a kit helps with minor mechanical issues on the trail.
Helmet
Protects your head on varied terrain and unexpected obstacles.
Hydration pack or water bottles
Ensures you stay hydrated on a trail without water refill stations.
Layered clothing
Allows temperature regulation in cooler mornings and warmer midday rides.
spring
Basic bike repair kit
Helps quickly resolve flats or mechanical issues so you can finish the ride.