What to know about planning a visit to the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road

The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road carries a load of passengers from Chama to Antonito Colorado and by this water tower that was built in 1881.

Rachel Driskell
Rachel Driskell Special to the Journal
Published Modified

Nestled in the picturesque San Juan Mountains of Colorado and New Mexico, the Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad is a historic gem that offers visitors a journey back in time.

This narrow-gauge railroad, often referred to as "America's Most Authentic Steam Railroad," provides a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty and history of the American West. If you're planning a visit to this iconic railroad, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your adventure.

History and Heritage

Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad was originally constructed in the late 19th Century to serve the mining and timber industries in the region. Today, it stands as a testament to the era of steam railroading and offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the past.

The railroad spans a stunning 64 miles through the San Juan Mountains, from Chama, New Mexico, to Antonito, Colorado. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of alpine meadows, dense forests, and deep canyons. This journey is a photographer's dream, with numerous opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the region.

Address: 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520 (888) 286-2737

When to plan your visit

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad typically runs from late May through mid-October. This year, rides are offered through October 21st. Late summer, when fields of wildflowers are in bloom, and early fall, with its vibrant fall foliage, are the most popular times. The railroad will also offer a family a Holiday Train with Santa departing out of Chama in early December.

Ticket Options

Given the popularity of the railroad, it's advisable to make reservations in advance. Tickets can be booked online through the official website or by phone.

When purchasing your ride take note of the three different tickets available. Each class offers a different level of comfort and amenities, and there is one to fit every budget. Note that no matter what class of service you purchase, you are allowed to ride in the Open-Air Observation Platform (Gondola) where you’ll find unobstructed views, great photo opportunities, and a chance to spot some of the abundant wildlife in the area. Ticket options:

  • The Classic Coach cars offer comfortable padded bench seating. Snacks and beverages are available in our concession car.

  • Enjoy the elegant setting of Deluxe with extra room and individual seating for your comfort. A morning and afternoon snack is also provided in this car. Enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, sodas, and juices complimentary throughout the day.

  • Parlor cars offer lounge-style comfort and panoramic windows that open to the unspoiled grandeur of the Authentic West. Personal attendants serve a pastry and fresh fruit in the morning upon departure. Enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, sodas, and juices complimentary throughout the day. An afternoon snack and a souvenir are also included with this class of service. Parlor accommodates adults only (21yrs+).

Length of the Journey

The complete journey from Chama to Antonito (or vice versa) takes a full day, so be prepared for an immersive experience. Plan to arrive early so you can walk abound the train yard and watch the historic locomotives prepare for the day. Trains depart at 10 a.m. sharp with boarding beginning about 9:30 a.m. The train ride itself lasts around 7 hours, including a stop for lunch.

Included in your excursion is a full, hearty lunch at Osier Station. Located at an elevation of 9,637, Osier Station is the mid-way point between Antonito and Chama and passengers will disembark to enjoy a choice of either Grilled Chicken, BBQ Pork or Enchiladas, served with Pinto Beans, Fingerling Potatoes, Corn Salad, Organic Green Salad, and Cornbread. Desserts will include assorted Cobblers and Cinnamon Peaches.

Off-Train Activities

While the train ride is the highlight of your visit, there are plenty of off-train activities to explore as well. In Chama and Antonito, you can visit museums and explore the railroad's depots to learn more about its history. Additionally, nearby hiking trails and scenic overlooks provide opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to extend their adventure.

Photography enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to capture shots along the railroad route. Be sure to bring your camera, lenses, and accessories to make the most of the experience. Keep an eye out for iconic spots like Tanglefoot Curve and Windy Point, known for their breathtaking views.

Souvenirs and Memorabilia

Don't forget to visit the gift shops at Chama and Antonito to take home a piece of the Cumbres-Toltec experience. You'll find a range of railroad-themed souvenirs, books, and memorabilia to commemorate your visit.

All aboard for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the American West.

25 pictures showing what you can see on the scenic Cumbres & Toltec Steam Railroad

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road steam engines pull a load of passengers from Chama to Antonito Colorado through the Cumbres Pass, over 10,000 feet in elv.
Riders of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad from Chama and Antonito, CO., take a lunch break
Riders of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad from Chama and Antonito, CO., take a lunch break at the junction where the two trains meet.
The Cumbres and Toltec steam locomotive
The Cumbres and Toltec steam locomotive chugs past an old water tank on the mesa on the northern portion of the train's route. The historic train ride from Antonito, CO., or from Chama, gives the rider a variety of New Mexico and Colorado scenery.
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road carries a load of passengers from Chama to Antonito Colorado and by this water tower that was built in 1881.
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad
One of the steam engines of Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama gets ready to carry passengers to Antonito, Colo., this past Labor Day weekend. According to ticket agent Diane Verde, the end of September and October are the busiest months for the narrow-gauge railway.
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Rail Road steam engines pull a load of passengers from Chama to Antonito Colorado.
CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD
Jeff Stebbins, an engineer on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, gets ready to depart from Chama with a load of tourist and train lovers.
CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD IN CHAMA
Volunteer Frank Yochey tries to entertain visitors to the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama.
CHAMA CUMBRES & TOLTEC RR DEPOT
Volunteer Mike Fiath is one of the few people walking around the depot of the Cumbres and Toltec RailRoad in Chama.
CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad carries tourist toward the Cumbres pass.
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The railroad is one of the main attractions in Chama.
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The railroad is one of the main attractions in Chama.
CUMBRES
Two Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad steam engines haul a load of passangers from Chama to Antonito Colorado Thursday morning.
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James Nebris 5, center, from Prescot Arizona, gets ready for his ride on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad on Thursday. Lawrence Hobbs, from Biscabin Ok., was also a passanger on the train.
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The Cumbres and Toltec engine sits warming up at the top of Cumbres pass in Colorado Friday, July 2, 2010. Employees of the scenic railroad and Southways Construction moved the engine and 6 passenger cars, 1 snack car and one gondola car from Chama to Cumbres to resume offering rides.
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A passenger train makes a stop at the Chama depot in 1924. At the time, the train was part of the San Juan Extension of the Denver Rio Grande Western Railroad.
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The Cumbres Toltec Scenic Railroad carries riders 64 miles between Chama and Antonito each year from Memorial Day weekend through mid October.
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Passengers can ride in comfort in one of the coach cars on the narrow gauge railroad.
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Jim Poston, the fireman on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad's engine 484, gets it ready for the next day. He and others were working on the train at Cumbres Pass north of Chama, Thursday September 30, 2010.
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Passengers unload from the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad cars at Cumbres Pass north of Chama, Thursday September 30, 2010.
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Donald Gallegos, left and his brother Martin sit on a bench overlooking the Cumbres and Toltec railyard in Chama, Wednesday, May 25, 2011.
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Railway uses 2 locomotive to pull 366 passengers through golden aspens to the top of La Cumbre Pass Thursday October 7, 2021. The narrow gage train was headed for Antonito Colorado.
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The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railway uses 2 locomotive to pull 368 passengers through golden aspens to the top of La Cumbre Pass Thursday October 7, 2021. The narrow gage train was headed for Antonito Colorado.
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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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Ryan Goude, 4, from Albuquerque, looks out the widow while he waits for his ride to start on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railway Thursday October 7, 2021. The narrow gage train was headed for Antonito Colorado.
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Tara and Jacob Young, from Houston Tx., wait for their ride to start on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railway Thursday October 7, 2021. The narrow gage train was headed for Antonito Colorado.
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John Rinehart works as a conductor on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad during their run to Antonito Co. Thursday October 7, 2021.
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Manuel Torres, a shop worker, fills two Cumbres and Toltec locomotives with water before their run to Antonito Co. Thursday October 7, 2021.
CUMBRES & TOLTEC ENGINE
Steve Montano works the set the timing of the valves on Cumbres & Toltec Senic Railroad's engine 484 . The engine house in Chama has three striped down engines being repaired.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Boilermaker Orlando Ulibarri, leans out of a window, to assist mechanics Josh Talamante, left, and Ricky Rivas, bottom right, unveil the number 484 on a train engine before the opening ceremony of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in Chama on Monday, April 26, 2004.
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