Thunder Mountain Line, Horseshoe Bend, Idaho

Idaho is a state filled with beautiful scenic areas. Horseshoe Bend is located in the forested area of Idaho providing numerous recreational activities for visitors each year. One option for visitors to Horseshoe Bend is to sign up for the Thunder Mountain Line. The Thunder Mountain Line is a train. The train moves at a slower pace than a vehicle allowing visitors to take pictures of the majestic mountains and forests. The train will wind through a narrow canyon along the Payette River. There are a couple of routes the Thunder Mountain Line takes. Visitors may see sagebrush hillsides with beautiful national forests and mountain meadows.

Visitors will travel from the station along the mountain trails which date back to a time when settlers were moving to the west. The railway was completed in 1914 to help increase the effectiveness of the mining and timber industry. Travelers get to enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air in the open air cars. Staff on the train will offer pieces of history as the ride continues.

There are four options for travelers to take when they sign up for the Thunder Mountain Rail. Visitors can take the Texan. The Texan is a luxury car for when visitors want to be entertained. This car is often used for business or special events. The car allows for a panoramic view of the mountain and river. Personal attention is offered to each passenger. The Texan is a newer car on the circuit despite its age. The car was built by Pullman Standard in 1955. It was built with a rear observation deck, lounge, formal dining room, master bedroom, and two sleeping compartments. There is also a secretary room and full kitchen with staff quarters. The car has undergone some renovations, so it has just become available in 2009.

Travelers can join the Wine and Dine train. This train leaves at 5:30pm or 7pm depending on the day. It is $59 for adults and $45 for children to take the train. The wine and dine train allows visitors to try various wines during dinner or just buying a favored wine. The wine dinner offers honey ciabatta bread. There is a choice of shrimp or chicken as part of the dinner. Dessert is included with the meal as are starter salads. Each wine and dine train is not going to have the same meal. Depending on the date traveled the meal could be a choice of chicken, shrimp, pork, or beef.

The other two train options are the Mystery Theater Dinner and the Wild West Train Robbery. The Mystery Theater Dinner allows the train diners to try to figure out the mystery. There is a staff of actors employed by the owners of Thunder Mountain Line. The mysteries will change just as the dinner options. The Wild West Train Robbery has a "Federal Marshall'' on the train who is trying to get to a murder trial, but the prisoners try to escape with hostages and a bit of protection.