Travel to Elgin on the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, named for the deepest river gorge in North America between the borders of Oregon and Idaho. The road continues along the Wallowa Mountains – sacred to the Nez Perce tribe – and Eagle Cap Wilderness bringing you to the farming and ranching town of Elgin.
When you arrive, check in to one of the outstanding local bed & breakfast options in the area. The Mays Place Bed & Breakfast, located in the center of town, is a restored Victorian era home complete with antique furnishings and charming hosts. Willow Creek Horse B&B is a storybook setting with surrounding views of the mountains and valley. The hosts will even put up your horse for the night, if you happen to be traveling with one.
For your evening entertainment, the Elgin Opera House is a draw for miles around and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Shows are family-friendly and the incredible energy of live performances will transport you from your seat straight into a story.
Before setting out on your morning adventure, grab a hot cup of coffee to-go at Cricket Flat Coffee Co. The walk-up window and drive-thru options are a must, especially to snag the ever-popular cheesy sausage muffins, housemade scones or mini carrot cakes.
Then hop on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train, whose season runs from May into October, for the opportunity to see countryside where no car can travel. Starting at the Elgin Depot, the Joseph Branch rail line traces a route along the Grande Ronde and Wallowa rivers with a roundtrip time of 3.5 hours.
Finally, stop in at Summerville Store & Tavern for made-from-scratch dishes at this “almost secret spot” featured in Travel Oregon. Known for friendly service and even more for their excellent daily specials ranging from street tacos to saucy country ribs served alongside a frosty selection of beers.
