A 5-mile portion of one of the most charming narrow-gauge lines of the Pacific Northwest has been re-created amid forests and the spoils of a former gold-mining dredge operation. It is a good approximation of a remote steam line in eastern Oregon, where snowcaps rise in the distance even in June.
Choices
The Sumpter Valley Railroad offers alternating departures from their depots at McEwen and Sumpter. McEwen departures are typically longer in length and last slightly over two hours while Sumpter departures are shorter in duration, lasting approximately 45 minutes. Both steam and diesel locomotives are used, and the railroad’s website lists the anticipated motive power for each trip.
When to go
Trips depart from either McEwen or Sumpter on select weekends June through September with fall foliage trips in late October. Seasonal special events such as the popular Christmas Train are also offered. Be sure to check the railroad’s website for the latest schedule updates.
Good to know
The Sumpter Depot is a replica of the original depot. Located on the Elkhorn Scenic Byway, Sumpter is surrounded by the Elkhorn Mountains. The area is filled with history, and nearby Baker City boasts at least 60 restored buildings.
Worth doing
Near the Sumpter Depot, in the Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area, visit the historic gold dredge that churned up all the rocks the railroad runs through — it’s as big as a house and a monster of a machine well worth touring.
Don’t miss
Cab rides aboard the steam locomotive are available.
Getting there
The railway is about 330 miles from Portland. The McEwen depot is located 23 miles southwest of Baker City on Route 7. The Sumpter depot is located at the entrance to Dredge State Heritage Area on Austin Street.
Location: 211 Austin Street, Sumpter; or 12259 Huckleberry Loop, Baker City
Phone: 541-894-2268
Website: sumptervalleyrailroad.org
E-mail: info@sumptervalleyrailroad.org
