Excursion rides offered on Coos Bay rail line

Jul. 3—The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay has partnered with Oregon Coast Railriders to offer excursion rides this summer on the southernmost portion of the Coos Bay Rail Line.

While the section of line from Coos Bay to Coquille is not commercially in service, the port and its partners are offering a recreational opportunity as it works to reestablish rail activity on that section of track, according to a news advisory from the port.

Trips depart from Sturdivant Park in Coquille and run north for about eight miles to Coaledo Hill Road, returning to Sturdivant Park for a scenic 16-mile round-trip experience.

The Railriders began operating on this section of line July 2, and will run every day until the end of October.

The rail carts can accommodate up to four people, and it is anticipated that each excursion will include at least six carts, with three to four excursions running per day.

Reservations can be made online or on site, but on-site ticket purchases will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Oregon Coast Railriders was founded by Kim and Anita Metlen. Since 2014, they have have established operations in other areas of the Pacific Northwest, beginning in Joseph. Since that time they have initiated rides in Bay City, Wheeler and Shelton.

The goal of the Railriders is to promote the Oregon Coast and contribute to its economic stability while sharing the splendor of Oregon.

To make a reservation or to learn more, see https://ocrailriders.com/. For more information, call 541-910-0981.