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'A moving time machine': Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad gets to ready to roll through New Mexico, Colorado
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Where they’re going, they don’t need roads.
It’s full steam ahead for the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad’s 2025 season, with excursions running from Saturday, May 31, through Oct. 25.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the longest steam-operated railroad in America, trekking through 64-miles of train tracks between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico.
The track was built in 1880 as part of the San Juan Extension of the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad to reach remote areas containing gold. In 1971, the railroad transitioned from being used for mining to carrying tourists between state lines. Now, the train highlights scenery in New Mexico and Colorado that cannot be seen any other way.
“Our train travels where no roads go, so right from the get-go, you get to disconnect from the modern world and enjoy the scenery,” said Abigail Martinez, marketing manager for the railroad.
Guests will be able to see natural landscapes, flora and of course, wildlife, while on the train.
“Oftentimes, you’ll pass through private ranch land, and sometimes you’ll see herds of sheep and working border collies and lots and lots of wildflowers,” said Joy Meadows, public relations specialist for the railroad.
The train departs from three locations in New Mexico and Colorado, including Cumbres, Colorado, option this year, with a variety of ride lengths for tourists. Rides range from an hourlong trip to a full day, giving travelers the ability to enjoy a train ride suited to their schedule. For first time riders, Martinez suggests the 8-hour excursion to get a full scope of the railroad.
The railroad will also offer special excursions like the geology train from Chama that focuses on volcanic fields and geological rifts, or the Fourth of July celebration train that features a barbecue dinner and fireworks.
“I think it just gives us another added layer to give people something to get excited about and to come and experience,” Martinez said. “We offer a glimpse into our culture, and we’ve changed the menu to be geared to more of the regional specialties.”
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As the railroad approaches the 100-year anniversary of its K-36 locomotives, Cumbres & Toltec will have a variety of events, including cab tours, special freight photos and more. In the fall, the railroad will offer additional trains, which Martinez said is a fan-favorite and the most popular booking season.
This year, the Cumbres & Toltec will offer premium seating for guests 21+, a new option. With this seating option, guests will be served a pastry and fruit, and have an attendant in the train car who will serve guests throughout the day and teach the rich history of the railroad.
“It’s a moving time machine here,” Martinez said. “Time has stood still, nothing has changed, so to come and experience the way our ancestors used to travel is something I think everybody should come and experience.”
