Cycle 20 miles along Oregon’s scenic Wallowa River with Joseph Branch Railriders, winding through towering cliffs and lush forest in this four-hour round trip. Spot deer, elk, and more while pausing at a peaceful riverside picnic spot.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders in good physical shape comfortable with sustained pedaling over 20 miles with some elevation changes.
Wildlife
History
This route follows the former Joseph Branch railroad bed, which was vital for transporting goods in and out of the region during the early 1900s.
Conservation
Joseph Branch Railriders emphasizes low-impact recreation, helping preserve the riparian habitat and encouraging riders to respect local wildlife.
Joseph Branch Railriders
Cycle 20 miles along Oregon’s scenic Wallowa River with Joseph Branch Railriders, winding through towering cliffs and lush forest in this four-hour round trip. Spot deer, elk, and more while pausing at a peaceful riverside picnic spot.
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 layered clothing
Temperatures can fluctuate along the river corridor; layers help you stay comfortable throughout the ride.
Watch for wildlife
Keep a safe distance from deer, elk, and other animals to protect both you and the ecosystem.
Carry water and snacks
Hydrate and refuel, especially before and after the picnic break midway through the trip.
Use sun protection
Although much of the ride is shaded, exposed sections warrant sunscreen and a hat for sun safety.
Helmet
Protects your head during the ride across variable terrain.
Hydration pack or water bottles
Staying hydrated is crucial during this multi-hour outing.
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust to temperature and weather changes along the canyon.
all
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protects skin and eyes during exposed stretches of the ride.
summer