About this place

The trail overlooks the historic Dixie switchbacks that were used and abandoned by the Sumpter Valley Railway. The switchbacks were built to maintain acceptable grades into the John Day Valley. At 5,277 feet, it was the highest point on the original Sumpter Valley Railway mainline. This compacted dirt trail is barrier free with interpretive signs giving historical details of the Sumpter Valley Railway. The trail has a paved pull through parking area just off of the highway. The trail affords visitors the opportunity to tracks and grade from the old railroad, allowing for an understanding of the old Sumpter Valley Railroad connecting Prairie City, Oregon with Baker City, Oregon. From Prairie City, OR., travel east on US Highway 26 approximately 8 miles. The interpretive site is located before Dixie Summit, on the right hand side of the road.