• Start point: Sumpter Valley Railroad Trailhead
• Ending Point: Sumpter Valley Railroad Trailhead
• Trail Log:
• Hike Type: Out-and-back
• Distance: 0.5 miles
• High Point: 5,250 feet
• Elevation gain: 100 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Fall
• Family Friendly: Yes
• Backpackable: No
• Crowded: No

Hike Description

The Sumpter Valley Railway was established in 1890 and when completed it stretched between Prairie City and Baker City. Trains transported feed, seed, equipment, and logs over the mountains. But better roads resulted in a decline in rail traffic and the last run occurred in 1947. A tourist train operates on a six-mile segment of the line between McEwan Depot and Sumpter Station, but here at Dixie Summit you can hike on a portion of old rail bed and learn about the history of the railroad, as well as the switchback system needed to get trains down the steep grade.

The trail heads through the trees, winding gently down the slope through a recent burn. At the bottom are railroad tracks and several interpretive signs explaining the history of the railroad and the Dixie Switchback. Make a left and follow the trail as it passes a piece of a railroad equipment and more signs before it loops back to rejoin the main trail. Return the way you came.

Fees, Regulations, etc.

Maps

• Maps: Hike Finder

Trip Reports

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Related Discussions / Q&A

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Guidebooks that cover this destination

More Links

• Sumpter Valley Interpretive Trail #260 (USFS)
• The Sumpter Valley Railway (Wikipedia)
• Sumpter Valley Railroad (tourist train)
• The Sumpter Valley Railway

Page Contributors

• justpeachy (creator)