I thought the perfect day didn’t exist, but I was wrong.
My daughter is an unofficial part of the PDX Parent team, and she has tested dozens — maybe hundreds? — of activities. She is always editing her mental list of top five outings, and within the first two minutes of riding the Mount Hood Railroad Railbikes, she said, “This is my new favorite thing to do,” which is high praise indeed, coming from her.
Why are railbikes so fun?
Wondering what all the fuss is about? Here’s what makes this outing a 10/10:
The Views
We enjoyed views of Mount Hood, a small waterfall, Hood River, fun bridges, pine trees, and an orchard and vineyard. We were never bored — there was always something new and exciting to see.
The Novelty
There’s nothing like this experience. It’s a glorious cross between cycling and train travel and going for a scenic drive or hike.
The Exercise
I admit we relied heavily on the pedal-assist motor on the uphill climbs, but we still got plenty of exercise and the endorphins added to our good mood. (FYI: Not all railbike adventures offer pedal-assist motors; check before booking.)
The One-on-One Time
When you have more than one child, one-on-one time can be hard to come by. On the railbikes at Mount Hood Railroad, you’re naturally divided into pairs. My daughter and I chatted for two hours with no distractions, and it will be one of my favorite memories of all time. If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your tween or teen, this is it.
Is my child old enough for railbikes?
Each venue will have their own requirements, but at Mount Hood Railroad, bikes are not suited for children under 44 inches. My daughter was 11 when we went, and she had no trouble reaching the pedals, thanks to the adjustable seats.
On Joseph Branch Railriders, however, you may attach carseats to the railbikes on some of their routes, so even the youngest kiddos can ride.
Is there anything not to love?
A railbike experience is a splurge. For our family, this outing falls into the special occasion category — perfect for birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or an outing with visiting family members. Even if it’s a one-time splurge for your family, Mount Hood Railroad gets it exactly right when they say, “the memories will last a lifetime.”
Where to Railbike in Oregon
We loved our experience in Hood River so much, that we’re adding the rest of these to our summer bucket list ASAP:
Railbikes at Mount Hood Railroad
Where: Hood River, Oregon
When: April-October
Cost: $199 for a two-person tandem railbike
Details: Single riders must be 16 years of age. All riders must be 44 inches tall, at least 3 years old, and under 250 pounds. The excursion lasts approximately 2.4 hours. Pedal-assist motor is available, and this makes the experience completely relaxing. There are two stops at the unique switchback, and one stop at The Fruit Company to rest and shop for snacks, beverages, and gifts.
Twins Ranch Rail Riders
Where: Bay City, Oregon
When: Seasonal, typically May-September
Cost: $30 per person
Details: The railbikes on this adventure seat four. All riders must be taller than 48 inches and weigh less than 220 pounds. Tour lasts approximately two hours. The ride is mainly flat but “can be strenuous” (no pedal-assist); you must be physically fit for this tour, according to the website. Seats are sold individually, so groups may share a four-seat bike with other guests.
Joy Rails (formerly Oregon Coast Railriders)
Where: Coquille, OR
When: TAKING A HIATUS IN 2026 May-September
Cost: $25/child, $40/adult
Details: This two-hour tour features four-seated railbikes with no pedal-assist motors. Expect to see wildlife and farm animals on this scenic tour of the Coquille Valley, along with a wood processing mill and log pond. The “wildflowers are spectacular through much of the summer,” according to their website. Joy Rails is not offering rides at its Coquille location in 2026 but says it hopes to return in 2027. Visit the website to subscribe for reopening updates.
Joseph Branch Railriders
Where: Joseph, OR and Minam, OR
When: Seasonal, typically May-October
Cost: Varies by route and bike configuration. Current listed prices range from $20 child-seat add-ons and $30 single seats to $180 four-seat railbikes.
Details: Choose from four current routes. Mountains Edge and Valley Sights depart from Joseph and offer electric assist. River Escape and Water Canyon depart from Minam and are pedal-powered. Children must be at least 2 years old on the Joseph routes, and child-seat options are available for children ages 2-7. Car seats are available on the Minam routes. Maximum weight is 300 pounds per seat.
Santiam Railbike Adventures
Where: Sweet Home, Oregon
When: Select dates; check the booking calendar
Cost: $30 adults, $22 children, $22 military
Details: Four-seat, motor-assisted railbikes travel approximately six miles round trip in about 1.5 hours. Riders must be at least 44 inches tall and weigh no more than 250 pounds. Solo riders must be at least 18 years old, and children may not ride on an adult’s lap. Arrive 30 minutes before departure.