The passengers and crew on the Halloween Train seemed to have a great time wrapping up the 2009 season of the Eagle Cap Excursion Train. Spooky and funny characters and a pair of cowboys added charm to the trip and a couple of I-Spy games brought laughs and helped people get to know one another.

The scenery stole the show, however. The Tamaracks were brilliant in their temporary fall colors and the sky added drama, with a mixture of high clouds, patches of blue and transient sunshine. The Grande Ronde and Wallowa Rivers were replenished by recent rains, their ripples sparkling in the sun.

The Eagle Cap Excursion Train is known for its friendly crew of volunteer car hosts. This train was no exception. The staff is excellent. They get the passengers engaged, point out wildlife and special sights and make sure everyone is comfortable and having an enjoyable time. It was the perfect trip to end a successful season.

See photos of this trip in the photo album.

We thank the patrons and volunteers and look forward to another great year on the rails in 2010. Please keep an eye on the train's Web site, www.eaglecaptrain.com for the new schedule, which will be released in January. In the meantime, consider a gift certificate for people on your Holiday gift-giving list. And, if you would like to help keep this train rolling or wish to be a volunteer, please click "About" on the main menu and then "Friends" on the drop-down, to learn about becoming a member of the Friends of the Joseph Branch. We can always use more "Friends!"