The Thunder Mountain Line was established in 1897 as the Idaho Northern Line by Colonel W.H. Dewey, a mining magnet from Nampa. The line was built to carry ore from Dewey’s mines at Thunder Mountain and Buffalo Hump.
In 1912 the railroad finally reached Horseshoe Bend and in 1916 a depot was constructed at the current Thunder Mountain Line depot site. In 1986 the original depot was moved a few miles away to the banks of the river in Horseshoe Bend and has found new life as the “Old Riverside Depot Inn,” a bed and breakfast. With the arrival of the railroad, life in Horseshoe Bend changed dramatically. The town site moved to the north bank of the Payette and became a company town and a large shipping point for cattle, sheep and logs.
This rail line remained in service until 1980, at which point the Union Pacific abandoned it. The Thunder Mountain Line had its first run on July 4, 1998. It has remained a popular attraction in the area ever since.
If the history of the area hold no interest for you, the scenery might. All three packages offer an intimate view of the Payette River and the surrounding mountains.
The Payette River valley is abundant in wildlife and plants. Each trip offers a unique variety of flora and fauna. According to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, wildlife including moose, elk, black bear and mountain lion can be seen in the Payette River canyon. Bird life such as bald eagles, white pelican, Canada geese and water ouzel can also be seen. |
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