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All Aboard: 5 holiday train rides to take in New Mexico and Colorado
Railroad safety operations transfer from the PRC to NMDOT in July, along with a couple of other bureaus. The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad train pulls out of Chama with 368 passengers headed for Antonito Co. Thursday October 7, 2021.
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There are a variety of unique train rides throughout New Mexico and Colorado your family can take part in this holiday season.
Here's a rundown of five you should know about:
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad
All aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad’s Holiday Express Train, a National Historic Landmark and the perfect way to celebrate the season. Departing from the Chama and Antonito, Colorado, depots, this festive train ride is packed with holiday cheer.
Passengers will be welcomed by Santa, his elves and their helper, Cinder Bear, along with hot cocoa, holiday cookies and candy canes. The ride lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 2 to 12.
The Holiday Express runs from the Chama Depot on Dec. 7 and 8 and from the Antonito Depot on Dec. 14 and 15. Departure times are 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
In the spirit of giving, the railroad will be collecting donations of toys and non-perishable food items to benefit local food pantries and children's charities.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, another National Historic Landmark, offers a magical holiday experience. This season, the railroad brings "The Polar Express" to life. Passengers will journey aboard a vintage steam train from the Durango Depot, accompanied by Santa Claus himself.
As the story unfolds, chefs serve hot chocolate and sweet treats to guests, while a narration of the book sets the scene. On the return trip to Durango, Santa visits each coach to hand out the first gift of Christmas to every passenger.
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This holiday tradition is the railroad’s most popular event of the year, so reservations are highly recommended. While the train ride itself is 65 minutes long, plan for a two-hour adventure to enjoy the full experience. The train operates from Nov. 22 through Jan. 4, 2025, with ticket prices ranging from $29 to $93, depending on the car selection and the rider's age. Don’t forget to wear your pajamas.
The Royal Gorge Railroad
The Royal Gorge Railroad offers a blend of scenery, service, and freshly prepared meals. Perfect for kids and kids at heart, this unique train is a feast for the senses, featuring intricate decorations, including hand-spun gold-leaf paint, 313 hand-painted snowflakes and 40 hand-painted pine trees.
- Vista Dome: $124 (Adults), $114 (Children ages 1–12)
- Deluxe Class: $124 (Adults), $114 (Children ages 1–12)
- Coach Class: $94 (Adults), $84 (Children ages 1–12)
The Santa Express Train runs on select dates: Nov. 25–27, Dec. 3–5, Dec. 9–12 and Dec. 16–18. Departures are scheduled four times daily at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. During the ride, passengers can enjoy lunch or dinner, along with snacks and drinks from a full bar. Each ticket includes the train ride, a visit with Santa Claus, hot cocoa and cookies and a special gift from St. Nick for every ticketed child.
Ticket prices vary by seating class:
Reserve your spot and make memories to treasure this holiday season!
Sky Railway
Sky Railway offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining live entertainment with a train ride. Departing from Santa Fe, passengers will enjoy desert landscapes, mountain views and possibly one of New Mexico’s stunning sunsets. This holiday season, the Lamy Depot transforms into a winter wonderland to host Pablo’s Holiday Express.
The holiday adventure runs on Nov. 29–30 and Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15 and 19–24. During the one-hour journey, families will be treated to live holiday music while traveling through the scenic New Mexico desert. Arrive 30 minutes early to enjoy hot cocoa and storytime with Mrs. Claus who will share the tale of how Santa and Pablito the Dragon saved Christmas in New Mexico. Departures are scheduled at 10:15 a.m., 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:15 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Additional snacks and holiday drinks are available for purchase and Santa will be on hand after the ride for photos. Tickets are $64 per adult and $34 per child (ages 3–12). Children under 2 can ride for free if seated on a parent’s lap.
Colorado Railroad Museum
- Standard Seating: $80 per person (ages 2–15) and $100 per person (ages 16 and older).
- First Class Seating: $475 for a table of four, with up to two lap riders (ages 2 and under) riding free.
The Colorado Railroad Museum will bring the magic of "The Polar Express" to life this holiday season with its holiday train. This two-hour, three-part theatrical experience is a must-see for fans of the classic story.
The journey begins with holiday caroling and a lively rendition of the famous "Hot Chocolate" song. Passengers will then enjoy a dramatic reading of "The Polar Express" as the train heads toward the "North Pole." Upon returning, guests will have the chance to visit with Santa and receive their very own First Gift of Christmas—a Silver Bell.
The holiday train runs from Nov. 14 through Dec. 23, with departures at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Special days will also feature a 6:30 p.m. departure. Two seating options are available:
