Lookingglass Hatchery – photo by Jim Ward

Saturday, August 2, the attention turns to steelhead and fall Chinook, when a train ride from Minam delivers passengers to Lookingglass Creek for a guided tour of the Lookingglass Fish Hatchery.

This train ride departs from Minam, taking passengers down the Wild & Scenic Wallowa River, an acclaimed steelhead fishing river, then up the Grande Ronde to Lookingglass Creek. Near Lookingglass Creek, passengers board a bus for a two mile trip to the hatchery. A guided tour of the hatchery informs participants about the fall Chinook salmon recovery program and raising winter steelhead. You’ll see how they collect eggs from adult fish and raise juveniles for release in area rivers and streams. You will gain a whole new perspective on these beautiful rivers and the wildlife they nurture. Board the bus for the ride back to the train and the return trip to Minam. Lunch is included. 27 rail miles are traveled on this ride, round trip. The train departs from Minam at 10 a.m. and returns at about 2:30. Tickets prices are: Adults, $70; Seniors 60+, $65; Youth 3 to 16, $35 (kids under three ride for free).

For tickets, call Alegre Travel, 541.963.9000 or 800.323.7330, or reach them by email to train@alegretravel.com. Book today – Reservations for this trip must be made by 3 p.m., Thursday, July 31.