About Us

The North Pend Oreille Valley Lions Club was chartered on May 23, 1974. From the beginning, our mission has been simple: serve our neighbors and strengthen our community. Over the decades, we’ve proudly supported local programs and events—including the beloved Ione Down River Days each July.

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A tradition of riding the rails

In July 1981, our Lions Club launched our first excursion train ride during Down River Days. It quickly became a community favorite and our primary fundraiser for many years. While the NPOV Lions Excursion Train came to an end in 2016, the spirit behind it never did.

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How Railriders began

We weren’t able to replace the train—but we could create a new way to enjoy the rails and continue giving back. In 2018, Lions members and local community volunteers combined their time, skills, and know-how to launch NPOV Lions Railriders. Today, Railriders is our main fundraising event, helping us continue the Lions tradition of service right here in north Pend Oreille County.

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50 years of service—and counting

On May 23, 2024, we celebrated 50 years of serving the communities of north Pend Oreille County. We’re grateful that our fundraising has helped support:

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• Community health and welfare programs

• Youth sports

• Educational and scholarship programs for Selkirk School students

• Local Fire/EMS services

 

When you ride with us, you’re not just booking a fun outing—you’re helping fund real community needs.

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What you can expect on your ride

Railriders is a unique, pedal-powered rail bike experience along the scenic Pend Oreille River in northeast Washington. You’ll ride on a four-seat, pedal-powered railroad bicycle as you make your way toward the impressive Box Canyon Trestle, hosted by Lions members and supported by Selkirk student volunteers.

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We take pride in creating an experience that’s friendly, well-organized, and community-centered—the kind of outing you’ll feel good about recommending to friends.