ELGIN — The Eagle Cap Excursion Train officially kicks off its season with the traditional Mother’s Day Brunch on May 12, which includes a meal catered by Ten Depot Street of La Grande.

The ride leaves the Elgin Depot at 10 a.m. and returns about 2 p.m. The train follows the banks of the Grande Ronde River to Rondowa, where the river is joined by the Wallowa River, then reverses direction for the trip back to Elgin.

“Early May is such a beautiful time of year and this annual ride is a great way to celebrate the holiday and honor the mothers in your life,” said Peggy Weishaar, reservations manager.

The season

There are 22 scheduled train rides this year spread out from May through Oct. 22.

A few trains have themes. Three robberies, enacted by the High Country Outlaws, will provide extra excitement, and Bigfoot will make an appearance June 8 with Sasquatch experts Scot and Hannah Violette along for the ride.

The Alpen Train, a ride with a Bavarian theme, is on the schedule for June 26 to get people in the mood for Oregon’s Alpenfest, a Bavarian festival that takes place in Joseph Sept. 29-30. For this trip, passengers can expect German fare on the menu, accordion music and costumed representatives from Alpenfest.

A couple of short “Season Special” rides are designed for families who want to pack a lot into their day, while two “Minam Bonus” rides travel from Elgin to Minam and back to provide a longer trip for genuine railfans. Bonus rides include more miles along the wild and scenic Wallowa River.

Trip descriptions, prices and the schedule are posted on the website and reservations can be made through the online booking service at www.eaglecaptrainrides.com or by calling the Elgin Depot, 541-437-3652. For assistance with groups and charters, contact the reservations manager by sending an email to eaglecaptraindepot@gmail.com.

Volunteer

The all-volunteer crew of certified engineers, conductors and car hosts are members of the Friends of the Joseph Branch. The non-profit organization that manages the excursions business celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023. Learn about membership and volunteer opportunities by sending a message to weishaar73@gmail.com.