Re: How far to Sumpter...

It take me 5.5 hrs to get from Sunriver, south of Bend, to McEwen (or Sumpter). Subtracting the 1.5 hrs. it takes me to get to Prineville, you'd better count on 4 hours one way to McEwen. The junction to Sumpter off Hwy 7, is about 2.5 miles. If you stay on Hwy it's ~2.5 miles east to McEwen, our headquarters and yards. This will leave you time to make pit stops and walk down to the Dixie switchback.
Hostling normally begins around noon on Friday, and concludes when it concludes. If all goes well Hostling is completed around 1830 hrs.
First steam up on Saturday begins around 0630. The crew aims to get to the Depot, water-up if needed and coupled by 0900. After a brake test they wait for customers.
Hope you can make it.
dan