Sumpter Valley Christmas Train
2026 dates confirmed on operator timetable. Ticket sale state and Christmas fare not established by the readable operator pages; prior $92 family estimate is unverified.
Getting there from California
26 miles southwest of Baker City in Eastern Oregon. This holiday train is a destination getaway for California train-loving families — perfect for a weekend road trip or a memorable holiday flight. Check the operator website below for travel and ticket details.
Quick Facts
Day Trip
2 hours
$
Tourist / Heritage Railroad
Best For Ages
The Experience
A snowy Eastern Oregon ghost town adventure with authentic railroad history. Step back in time on this narrow-gauge diesel-powered journey through the Blue Mountains' Elkhorn section. Volunteer railroad enthusiasts have rebuilt over 7 miles of this historic logging railroad by hand—the original track was scrapped in 1947. This educational rail travel experience takes families on a two-hour round-trip from McEwen to Sumpter through a winter wonderland of snow-covered mine tailings and mountain scenery. Visit Santa in a storybook ghost town setting. At Sumpter Station, meet Santa Claus while enjoying free hot chocolate and coffee. This small community west of Baker City transforms into a magical Christmas destination, with the train ride often coordinated with Sumpter's traditional Christmas parade and tree lighting. The authentic Old West atmosphere and genuine community spirit create bucket list train journeys unlike commercial productions. Rare narrow-gauge heritage railroad adventure. Ride in vintage 1910s-1920s train cars including enclosed cabooses, a unique 'Circus car,' and coach seating with both indoor and outdoor options. Multiple train options include daytime scenic rides and evening lights trains. At just $23 per person (special run pricing), this represents one of the most affordable train vacations in Oregon while offering immersive railroad adventure for families. The all-volunteer operation demonstrates pure passion for preserving Western railroad heritage—corny jokes and tall tales from the friendly crew included.
Schedule & Dates
Operating Dates
Dec 11, 2026 at 4pm; Dec 12 at 11am, 1:30pm and 4pm; Dec 13 at 11am and 1:30pm.
Kid Discounts Available!
Children 2 and under ride free; senior discounts available; special Family Fare packages
Charter & Group Options
Private charters available depending on equipment and crew availability
