Canyon Twist
About this trip...
Enjoy this peaceful pedal through a lush river canyon, with lots of fresh air, and a good possibility of wildlife sightings.
Rock cliffs will soar above as you follow along the tumbling Wallowa River for your entire trip, simply put the landscapes are absolutely breathtaking. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, marmot, deer, elk, and maybe even a bear, it's wild out there.Your adventure begins near the famed Minam Store at the confluence of the Wallowa and Minam Rivers where your first few pedal strokes will take you across a trestle over the Wallowa River.
Once you arrive at your midpoint you'll enjoy a 30 minute rest nestled in a quaint spot at the rivers edge with picnic tables and shade. It's a perfect opportunity to relax and eat a snack / lunch that you pack in.
💡 Important Tips
Our Minam trips have a gentle grade and are pedal powered only, there is no electric assistance.
A relaxed pace is key. Our Minam trips are doable by most people and it's rare for someone to struggle if you take your time.To put it into perspective: It's gentle enough that your guide pedals by themselves most days.
Guests with an average physical fitness level enjoy this adventure most.
We provide an outhouse restroom for our guests to use at our midpoint, please understand that our remote toilets are very difficult to get in place and are rarely if ever cleaned during the season so please don't expect 5 star facilities by any means, but it beats going in the woods any day.
Rock cliffs will soar above as you follow along the tumbling Wallowa River for your entire trip, simply put the landscapes are absolutely breathtaking. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, marmot, deer, elk, and maybe even a bear, it's wild out there.Your adventure begins near the famed Minam Store at the confluence of the Wallowa and Minam Rivers where your first few pedal strokes will take you across a trestle over the Wallowa River.
Once you arrive at your midpoint you'll enjoy a 30 minute rest nestled in a quaint spot at the rivers edge with picnic tables and shade. It's a perfect opportunity to relax and eat a snack / lunch that you pack in.
💡 Important Tips
Our Minam trips have a gentle grade and are pedal powered only, there is no electric assistance.A relaxed pace is key. Our Minam trips are doable by most people and it's rare for someone to struggle if you take your time.To put it into perspective: It's gentle enough that your guide pedals by themselves most days.
Guests with an average physical fitness level enjoy this adventure most.
We provide an outhouse restroom for our guests to use at our midpoint, please understand that our remote toilets are very difficult to get in place and are rarely if ever cleaned during the season so please don't expect 5 star facilities by any means, but it beats going in the woods any day.
Review the following prior to booking
This trip departs from Minam, Oregon.
Visit our Minam Directions page for a map, landmarks, and common travel times.Minam trips must be booked at least 24 hours in advance.
However, a time slot within our 24 hour cutoff may have seats available even though it says "full".Please Contact Us to find out, we might be able to fit you in.
Groups larger than two will be split between multiple Railriders
If your group is odd numbered, one person will share a Railrider with your guide or a new friend.Prefer a solo car? - You'll need to book an extra ticket to make your party even to reserve a private Railrider if so desired.
Children ages 13 and up may ride together on their own Railrider
A responsible adult must be present on the trip.
Safety Reminder: There is a 300lb / 136kg weight limit per each seat.
This is a limitation of our equipment and to ensure your safety it is a rule we cannot bend.
Guest Seat
This trip is booked by the seat. $60 ticket = One Seat
Most children 8 years+ can properly reach the pedals, Children ages 4 to 7 may use these seats and will ride along without pedaling
These seats have lap style seat belts
Children must be accompanied by an adult
How to Book:
Select the number of tickets needed for your group on the 1st page during booking
To avoid double booking: If you need a Jump Seat for your child(ren) do not book $60 tickets for them, only add the jump seats needed.
Add On Jump Seat
Non-Pedaling add on seat for Children ages 2 - 7
Add 1 or 2 Jump Seats to one of our Two Seat Railriders
We have up to 2 Jump Seats available per Minam trip and only one car they can attach to
5-point or lap style seat belt depending on child size
How to Book:
Jump Seats will be offered on the 2nd page during booking. If you don't see one, they are not available for the trip
To avoid double booking: If you need a Jump Seat for your child(ren) do not book $60 tickets for them, only add the jump seats needed.
Rescheduling
Booking changes must be made at least 48 hours prior to your trip or your booking will remain as is.
Cancellations
For Small Groups (less than 8 guests)
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours (48 hours for Minam Trips) prior to your trip to receive a refund.
For Large Groups (8 or more)
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours (72 hours for Minam Trips) prior to your trip to receive a refund.
Cancellations made inside of these windows will be treated as a same day cancellation and may (upon approval) receive a credit in the form of a gift card minus (-) previously paid booking fees and a 15% cancellation fee. See below for additional same day cancellation rescheduling options.
Late Arrivals – Same Day Cancellations – Same Day Changes (Joseph)
We operate on a set schedule and setup our trips for our bookings on hand. Your instructed arrival time allows for check-in, safety orientation, and seat adjustments. We cannot wait, we will leave at our scheduled time. We hate to have be blunt but tardiness has caused us a lot of issues. Same day cancellations / Same Day Trip changes are very costly for our company and will be subject to the same terms as late arrivals.
Communication is Key
If you will not make it on time but have contacted us prior to your scheduled arrival time: We will do our best to fit your party onto another departure time during your visit. This rescheduling will result in a 15% surcharge. If we cannot find another time that works, you will receive a gift card in the amount of your booking less previously paid booking fess as well as the addition of a 15% rescheduling fee.
Late Arrivals – Same Day Cancellations – Same Day Trip Changes (Minam Trips)
We operate on a set schedule and setup our trips for our bookings on hand. Your instructed arrival time allows for check-in, safety orientation, and seat adjustments. We cannot wait, we will leave at our scheduled time. We hate to have be blunt but tardiness has caused us a lot of issues. Same day cancellations / Same Day Trip changes are very costly for our company and will be subject to the same terms as late arrivals.
Communication is key
If you are running late or need to cancel / make a change day of and you contact us prior to your scheduled arrival time: There is no signal in Minam so we cannot notify your guide that you are running behind or won’t be attending. If you don’t make it in time or won’t be attending your options are limited. There is generally only one trip per day. If you miss your trip we can try to reschedule you for another day during your visit if space is available, rescheduling would result in a 15% fee added to your booking. We can also attempt to possibly fit you in on a Valley Sites trip out of Joseph that same day of your trip, there will be no refunds for ticket price differences if you choose to switch to our Valley Sites option. If we cannot find another time that works, you will receive a gift card in the amount of your booking, less previously paid booking fess, as well as the addition of a 15% rescheduling / cancellation fee.
No-Call No-Show
If you simply do not show up by the time your trip departs or at all you are
NOT ELIGIBLE for a refund.
Booking Errors
If you make a booking error and overbook your trip you will not receive a refund for unused cars/seats. These errors cost our company potential guests who may have wanted to go and couldn’t. Underbooking We do not hold cars aside for walkups. If you underbook for what your party needs there is a likely possibility that we won’t have enough space for everyone to ride. We will not refund the items already booked if this happens.
Extenuating Circumstances
We are a family run human company, extenuating circumstances will be addressed on a case by case basis.
We understand there is sometimes a need to cancel or adjust bookings, that’s life, but things like same day cancellations, late arrivals, and no shows often prevent others who may want to go from having an opportunity to do so, or makes others wait when they shouldn’t have to. We try to keep our policies fair but we also strive to limit these occurrences as much as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
We reserve the right to cancel outings for any reason we feel necessary. If this happens we will make every effort to work with you to find an alternative time or date for you to enjoy Railriding. If we cannot make that happen we will issue a full refund.
We will operate in light rain. We have had many fun trips on days with predicted rains. The weather changes rapidly and much of the predicted precipitation tends to stick to the mountains.
Inclement Weather Procedures
In the event of poor weather that is expected to change rapidly we will start with a 15 minute delay and continue with delays in 15 minute intervals up to one hour until it clears. If it does’t improve we will be forced to cancel and attempt to reschedule the trip.
Weather Refunds
We reserve the right to cancel outings for any reason we deem necessary. If this happens we will make every effort to work with you to find an alternative time or date for you to enjoy Railriding. If we cannot make that happen we will issue a full refund.
We are very cautious when it comes to our guest and guide safety. However, if we deicide that we will operate a trip in weather conditions that you don’t want to ride in and you choose to cancel due to these weather conditions you will receive a credit in the form of a gift card. This applies to an at the time of the trip decision. All other cancellations or changes will be subject to our standard terms.
We generally are able to operate in most conditions with the exception of the following:
- Temperatures above 103 degrees
- Thunderstorms, any sign of lighting
- Heavy rain (not very enjoyable and we loose traction)
- Wet conditions in weather colder that 45 degrees (not enjoyable)
- Heavy fog
- Smokey conditions where the air quality index is above 150: Unhealthy level or higher
- Extreme winds or dust storms
- A combination of these at varying degrees of intensity
Essentially it comes down to ensuring the safety of everyone and making sure your Railriding experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
Please refer to our Policies page for weather related cancellation details and more.
Prohibited Items
- Alcohol
- Hard sided / foam coolers
- Animals
- Sour attitudes
- Frowns
- Loud speakers (headphones are fine)
Prohibited Activities
The following activities are strictly prohibited on all Railriding grounds including our parking areas, restrooms, and anywhere along the trips.
- No Smoking / Vaping (we traverse high fire risk areas on all of our trips)
- No Alcohol or Drug Use
- No playing Loud Music
- Please try to keep profanity in check
Railriding is a family friendly activity and these restrictions are in place for guest safety, the safety of the environments we explore, and to ensure all guests enjoy themselves in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment.
In accordance with the Wallowa County Railroad Authority rules as well as those set forth by our insurance carrier, we do not allow animals of any kind on our trips.
Our pets are family too and we wish they could go but it’s just not a safe activity for animals.
Don't be late, Arrive 10 minutes prior to your departure time
Trip Specific Questions
↓ click question / item to expand ↓
This is the the trip if you want to get away from the “crowds”. You can say goodbye to the world as you won’t have cell service for a good portion of your journey.
If you are someone who enjoys a good moderate hike then you will do just fine on this trip. Typically guests with at least an average fitness level enjoy this trip most.
We have a 300lb weight limit per seat.
All times of the year are great. But if you have certain sensitivities to rainy weather, heat, cold, or crowds you may want heed this advice.
Weather
The beginning and end of season may be rainy. If you come in May, early June, Late September and October expect there to be a higher chance or rainy days. We do have some pretty fun trips in light rain but if potentially getting wet and sometimes cold and wet isn’t your thing then you might want to work with us to find a dry day to ride.
On the flip side, late June, July, and August is typically dry and warm/hot. We usually only get a stretch of days up to a week of temps north of 100 degrees.
Sensitivities to Heat / Sun
If traveling during our summer months we encourage you ride our morning or evening trips. Always remember to hydrate and use sun protection.
Sensitivities to Cold
We have scheduled our season with this in mind offering only our mid-day trips during the cooler parts of the season so the trips are more comfortable. However there are sometimes some cool / cold days that sneek in in May, early June, and again in September. We encourage you to book during the middle of the day if cold is uncomfortable during these times of year.
Crowds
The beginning and end months of our season typically have less people on our trips if crowds are a concern. However we never have more than 30 people on our attraction.
Bonus Tip
The early months of the season offer spring blooms, and the later months offer fall colors both of which are a little extra icing on an already awesome slice of cake.
Start
You will depart as a group at 9AM. You will generally get some space in between Railriders as you travel between your start and midpoint.
This trip is gently sloped with a max of 1% grade. It is generally uphill to our midpoint and more downhill on your way back.
Midpoint / Restroom
At our midpoint you will carefully get off of your Railrider. You’ll be nestled in a quaint spot along the river.
You will have a 30 minute rest break. Now is the time to eat a snack/lunch that you packed in.
We provide an outhouse restroom for our guests to use at our midpoint
NOTE our remote toilets are very difficult to get in place and are rarely if ever cleaned during the season so please don’t expect 5 star facilities, but it beats having to go in the woods.
This is a good time let your guide know if you need a seat adjustment. Your guide will let you know when it’s time to start heading back. You may also cut your break time shorter if you prefer.
Return Leg
Your return trip will feel more downhill. But remember a gentle pace is key, take it easy and the pedal will be easier.
You will have to work a little on the tight corners traveling in both directions.
Home Base
Congratulations you made it! If you are heading to Joseph checkout our souvenir shop and museum area in our office at 501 W. Alder St.
Don’t forget to share pictures and stories of your adventure with friends and family.
Now it’s time to decide which trip to conquer next. They are all special in their own way.
There will be no opportunity to buy food or drink until the end of your trip so you’ll have to bring what you need.
There is a basket onboard so there is room for some essentials.
Note: If you use jump seats your storage space will be limited, make sure you have bags with straps you can hang them by.
First and foremost should be hydration.
*remember the more you bring the more you pedal
Essentials you should bring
- Water / Sports Drink (every seat has at least one cup holder that will fit a standard 20 ounce water bottle)
- Lunch / Snacks (You will have a 30 minute rest break. You may pack a picnic lunch or snacks)
- Weather Protection (sun hat, sunscreen, rain gear, jacket, etc.) Please research your riding conditions so you come prepared.
- Picture Taking Apparatus (Camera, cellphone, goPro, whatever you have there’s a lot to capture)
Nice things to have
- Binoculars
- Small snacks
- Small soft sided cooler
- Smiles
- Fun stories
- A treat for your guide
Tips for a fun trip
It can still be quite cool here in Wallowa County in May and June and once September comes around it starts again so a jacket or windbreaker may be helpful.
We strongly urge the use of sun protection. The air is very clean here and we’re closer to the sun than you might be used to so take this sun protection tip to heart.
Even the shortest amount of time out without protection can lead to a quick sunburn.
Your midpoint stop is situated in a quaint area next to the Wallowa River.
This is the place to stretch your legs and eat a snack or lunch.
While you refuel your guide will turn around the Railriders for your return trip.
There will be a outhouse restroom nearby this area.
Your guide will let you know when it’s time to get back on the rails.
Be sure to keep back away from the rivers edge.
Short answer, not much.
You will find a small convenience store, rafting service with rentals available, and a state recreation area nearby.
If you are passing through Wallowa or want to see more sites you should really check out this neat little town.
Wallowa has food, water, restrooms, parks, motels, and an RV park. There are antiques, artwork, and rich history to be found here.
There is a small park for a picnic or several small cafés for lunch or dinner.
Need Help Finding Lodging? CLICK HERE
Things to see and do in Wallowa:
- Visit the Farmers Market for local produce and handmade crafts
- Check out the Gene Hayes Gallery & Museum (301 Donald St., Wallowa, OR 97885) Hayes Art Group Facebook Page
- Explore native history at the Wallowa Band Nez Perce Trail Interpretive Center (209 East Second St., Wallowa, OR 97885)
- Take a moment to relax at the quaint Wallowa Library
There is no safe way to transport an animal onboard a Railrider.
It is also strictly prohibited in our use contract with the Railroad, so ultimately it’s out of our hands.
We generally are able to operate in most conditions with the exception of the following:
- Thunderstorms, any sign of localized lighting
- Heavy rain (not very enjoyable and we loose traction)
- Wet conditions in weather colder that 45 degrees (not enjoyable)
- Heavy fog
- Smokey conditions where the air quality index is above 150: Unhealthy level or higher
- Extreme winds or dust storms
Essentially it comes down to insuring the safety of everyone and making sure your Railriding experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
Please refer to our Policies page for weather related cancellation details and more.
- Arrive 10 minutes early (in Minam) See Map
- Visit restroom if needed
- Provide your name to crew member
- Sign paper waiver if you did not sign online
- Listen to safety briefing
- Get seat adjusted
- Load your gear
- Have fun!
Road Crossings
This trip doesn’t have any major road crossings. Just a couple driveways and little used roads, just be sure to look both ways and be prepared to stop as you cross them.
Hydration
Be sure to begin hydrating a couple hours prior to your trip. Bring along some water or sports drinks.
Sun Protection
The sun can be very intense at times in Wallowa County. We urge you to please use sun protection.
We recommend sunscreen, large hats, & sunglasses.
Stings & Allergies
This is the outdoors and we have bees, wasps, hornets, as well as a variety of grasses & hay.
Please come prepared with your EpiPen and notify your guide of your allergy prior to riding.
Black Bear
We will be in bear country. Always keep an eye out, its a treat to spot one.
We have whistles on each car that you can use to startle a bear if needed. There will also be bear spray evenly spaced in the line of cars for emergency use.
Please practice your animal wrangling skills somewhere else.
Snakes
In the lower canyon you are in Rattlesnake territory. Always carefully look where you step.
You are not Steve Irwin so please don’t play with the snakes.
Seat Belts
A lap seat belt must be worn whenever your Railrider is in motion.
All Minam Round Trip units are two seat Railriders.
- Both seats have the ability to pedal.
- Pedaling is freewheel style, each side pedals independently .
- You may rest while the other person pedals if needed.
- Our Minam trips can be pedaled by a single guest.
Your guide typically pedals by themselves. If you are by yourself your guide would be happy to pedal with you to share the work and make the trip more enjoyable all around.
