An ideal fall getaway for a long weekend or a vacation is to northern New Mexico or southern Colorado. And, a great thing to do is to ride the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad which travels through both states.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a vintage steam locomotive driven excursion train leaving either from Antonito, Colorado or Chama, New Mexico. You will journey back in time through spectacular mountains, canyons and valleys.
Before roads linked the towns of the Rocky Mountains, steam engines carried passengers and goods from town to town. The Cumbres & Toltec railroad is designated both a National and State Registered Historic Site and National Civil Engineering Landmark. As you travel, docents will point out historic sites and natural wonders. The local people love their railroad. That is evident in the number of volunteer hours donated.
You can begin your trip from either Antonito, Colorado or Chama, New Mexico. The railway offers a one-way bus trip option bringing you back to your original starting point. You can ride from either depot and go half way up the route to Osier, the lunch stop and return. Or you can ride all the way through the 64 mile route from either Antonito or Chama, also with a lunch stop in Osier.
Due to harsh conditions and snow during the winter, the excursions are seasonal. In 2011 Trains depart Chama, New Mexico & Antonito Colorado daily at 10am thru October 16th.
Your trip will take you over scenic high trestles and through tunnels to areas overlooking mountains and meadows. If you are lucky like we were on a September trip, you may see the beauty of the golden aspens in the mountains.
The railroad recently suffered from a devastating trestle fire and had to shut down operations for a period of time. Fortunately, the trestle has been re-built and the train continues its well-known scenic route.
Meals and Snacks
You can bring your own snacks and water on board. There is also a canteen car. The lunch stop at Osier is well organized and you will be offered such choices as turkey dinner, meatloaf dinner or salad bar. The cafeteria type line moves along quickly and you eat a long picnic tables. Don't look for wine or beer. You probably won't be able to eat all that will be served to you!
Tips
Be sure and make a reservation, You never know when a busload of tourists will have made arrangements to ride the train.
Expect a bit of cinders and soot, especially if you ride behind the engine There are inside and outside cars.
Layer your clothing as you may be sitting in the sun one moment and enjoying the chilly winds in the open air car the next
If you are bringing small children on the longer ride, be prepared to entertain them. This is a scenic excursion and children who are used to a lot of stimulation and action, may need something to pass the time or help from adults pointing out things along the way.
A hat and sunscreen helps if you plan to ride outside or near an open window
More Information
Address for Antonito Depot: 5234 B Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120
Address for Chama Depot: 500 Terrace Drive, Chama, NM 87520
Railroad Phone Number for Reservations:1-888-CUMBRES
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