The 10 Best Scenic Railroads and Train Tours in Spectacular Oregon
Oregon, the gem of the Pacific Northwest, is a land of diverse scenery and stunning natural beauty. From the rugged coastline and lush forests to the breathtaking mountain vistas and vineyard-draped hillsides, experiencing Oregon through the unique perspective of a train tour should be on everyone’s bucket list.
1. Mount Hood Railroad
Located in the picturesque town of Hood River, Mount Hood Railroad offers a scenic 22-mile round-trip journey through the Hood River Valley. Alongside views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams, prepare to be surrounded by orchards, vineyards, and blossoming fields. Be sure to take the Fruit Loop Tour in the fall when the apple and pear harvests are in full swing.
2. Oregon Coast Scenic Railway
Embark on a nostalgic coastal adventure with Oregon Coast Scenic Railway. Departing from the heart of Garibaldi, this steam-powered train chugs along the stunning Tillamook Bay, offering salt-air views often accompanied by sightings of seals and bald eagles who call this bay home.
3. Sumpter Valley Railway
A ride on the historic Sumpter Valley Railway is a step back in time. The carefully restored steam trains ply between McEwen and Sumpter, past scenic meadows, forests, and the dredge at Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area — a gold mining relic from the 1930s. The Wild West spirit is alive and kicking in this corner of Eastern Oregon.
4. Eagle Cap Excursion Train
Among the scenic wonders of northeastern Oregon, the Eagle Cap Excursion Train offers a journey through the Wallowa Valley. The train chugs past dense forests, fertile farmlands, and the pristine waters of the Wallowa and Grande Ronde Rivers. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife!
5. Willamette Shore Trolley
From Lake Oswego to the South Waterfront District of Portland, the Willamette Shore Trolley takes passengers along a route that showcases magnificent homes, towering trees, and panoramic views of the Willamette River. An evening ride during summer offers an exceptional view of the sun setting over the downtown skyline.
6. Amtrak’s Coast Starlight
Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route gives a front-row seat to some of Oregon’s most picturesque landscapes. The train travel from Portland to Klamath Falls takes passengers past the majestic Mount Hood, the Cascade Range, and the stunning Crater Lake National Park region.
7. Portland’s MAX Light Rail
While it’s primarily used for commuting, don’t overlook the scenic opportunities on Portland’s MAX (Metropolitan Area Express) light rail! This railway makes its way through the heart of the city, past the historic Union Station, and out towards the lush landscapes of the Washington Park.
8. Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad
The Port of Tillamook Bay Railroad offers unforgettable trips through Oregon’s coastal forests, over breathtaking high trestles, and along the scenic Wilson River. It’s an exceptional way to soak in the beauty of Tillamook County.
9. Washington Park and Zoo Railway
This delightful train journey takes passengers on a scenic trip around Portland’s Washington Park, home to the Oregon Zoo, the Portland Japanese Garden, and the International Rose Test Garden. This is a great activity to add to your Portland exploration, especially if traveling with family.
10. Elgin-St. Paul HOG Excursion Train
This antique-style train embarks on a scenic route along the Grande Ronde and Wallowa Rivers, passing through breathtaking landscapes of Northeastern Oregon. The ride includes a stop at Minam State Recreation Area, perfect for a riverside picnic.
Oregon’s scenic railroads and train tours are true adventures that help us slow down, experience beauty in motion, and appreciate the plentiful natural gifts this spectacular state has to offer. So, go ahead! Choose your route, buy your ticket, and soak up the sights as the rhythmic rattle and hum of the train carry you through this stunning corner of our world. Welcome aboard!