Elgin, Oregon__The Eagle Cap Excursion Train has announced their July 20 train ride will give a taste of the annual Swiss-Bavarian event known as Oregon’s Alpenfest. The cultural festival takes place at Wallowa Lake, Joseph and Enterprise, September 26-29. A Taste of Alpenfest train ride departs from the Elgin Depot July 20 at 10 a.m.

Excursion Train planners are working with the organizers of Alpenfest to incorporate Alpenfest food, entertainment and ambiance into the July trip. Surrounded by high ridges and fragrant pine trees, the setting is ideal for thoughts of Heidi and her home in the Swiss Alps. Wear your dirndl or lederhosen and you may win a prize!

Bavarian costumed volunteers will greet passengers at the Elgin depot, to the sound of alphorns and polka music. The lunch menu on the train will reflect the theme, featuring the official Alpenfest Bratwurst from Mt. Joseph Family Foods and sauerkraut. Passengers can expect the same attentive volunteer train crew, beautiful scenery and friendly, relaxing atmosphere for which this excursion train is known.

The Eagle Cap Excursion Train operates on a highly scenic and roadless stretch of railroad along the Grande Ronde and Wallowa Rivers in northeast Oregon. The train departs at 10 a.m. on selected Saturdays from the new depot in Elgin, travels 21 miles, then reverses direction and returns to Elgin. The trip averages 3.5 to 4 hours. Go to www.eaglecaptrainrides.com for a season schedule and additional information.

Taking place in late September, Oregon’s Alpenfest is a four-day celebration of Swiss and Bavarian culture and cuisine in the majestic Wallowa Mountain country known as Oregon’s Little Switzerland. Featured are polka bands, yodeling, alphorns and locally crafted bratwurst, beer and wine. Other popular attractions are the Alpine Art, Antique and Craft Fairs, shopping in local art and sculpture galleries and picturesque shops, and Alpenfest specials in local restaurants. Details are available at oregonalpenfest.com.