The 2012 Wallowa Union Scenic Railway season gets off to an exciting start this Saturday, June 23. A notorious gang of bandits associated with the Elgin Stampeders plans to rob the train near Elgin. Passengers can expect lots of laughs as horseback-riding robbers stop the train and climb on board while the train is passing through a remote section of the Grande Ronde River. Expertly performed by experienced cowboys and cowgirls, the story line includes the rescue of the outlaw leader Stella Rose.
The Stampeder organization is responsible for putting on the Elgin Stampede PRCA Rodeo in mid-July and uses the annual train robbery to bring attention to the rodeo. The train departs at 10 a.m. from Elgin for a 4.5-hour trip. Passengers also have plenty of time for relaxation, visiting and enjoying the view as they continue several miles up the Wild & Scenic designated Wallowa River, enjoy a lunch break at Minam, then return to Elgin. Ticket prices are: youth, 3 through 12 = $35 / adults = $65 / seniors 60+ = $60. Lunch prepared by Ten Depot Street Restaurant is optional for $10 and must be ordered when the ticket is purchased. For train tickets, details on the excursions and lodging options, contact Alegre Travel, 1.800.323.7330 or travel@alegretravel.com. Seats are selling fast, so don’t delay!
The excursion season continues with trips departing from Elgin at 10 a.m. on most Saturdays through October, and trips from Joseph every Thursday and selected Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Please see the Wallowa Union Scenic Railway website, www.eaglecaptrain.com, for the full schedule, trip descriptions and railroad news.
