Western Railroad Discussion > UP Joseph Branch Enjoying a Second Life

As a scenic tourist tourist train. Thanks to the Counties of Wallowa and Union , plus the State of Oregon for purchasing the most scenic segment from Elgin to Joseph., The first 20 miles from La Grande to Elgin was leased  to Idaho Northern and Pacific and continues to see freight service The charm is only one road crossing in the almost thirty mile most scenic segment in  operation. We have Friends of the Joseph Branch to thank for operating and preserving the railroad. Pictured below is  sampling along the Grand Ronde and Wallowa Rivers of the Eagle Cap Excursion Train. The train is crewed by retired UP employees who worked the branch in its heyday and who are more than happy to share the history of the branch.All three images are from the 2025 season. Bill Webb



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/04/26 17:03 by spider1319.

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Very nice Bill! Thanks for posting as we get off to the 2026 season.  Friends, look into seat availability for the coming weekly runs. Many trips are already sold out!

Very cool.
JB

Love that third shot. 

Great trio!

It just looks a bit off seeing Santa Fe geeps and stainless passenger equipment on a very UP branch.

And a Southern Pacific baggage car!