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Witness the rare union of historic K-36 locomotives at night in Chama, NM. Capture a breathtaking 100th anniversary photo session under the stars with Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad.
Witness the rare union of historic K-36 locomotives at night in Chama, NM. Capture a breathtaking 100th anniversary photo session under the stars with Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad.
Book with Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
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Operated by Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad · Chama, New Mexico
Join Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for an extraordinary night photography experience celebrating the 100th anniversary of the legendary K-36 locomotives. This special event in Chama, New Mexico, offers a rare opportunity to capture multiple steam engines in a stunning group portrait beneath a star-filled sky. Following the iconic Parade of Steam, participants will witness these historic behemoths illuminated against the backdrop of the New Mexico wilderness. The nighttime setting provides a unique ambiance, perfect for photographers and rail enthusiasts alike who want to document this once-in-a-century moment. This session combines history, mechanical heritage, and natural beauty, making it a truly memorable adventure for all ages. Whether you're an experienced photographer or just eager to experience a historic celebration in an incredible setting, this night photo session is an unmissable way to create lasting memories under the stars.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Minimal physical fitness required as the event is stationary and involves standing or sitting in one location.
No, beginners are welcome and will learn alongside experienced photographers, but having basic camera knowledge helps.
While not mandatory, tripods are highly recommended to achieve sharp, long-exposure photographs at night.
Tickets are limited and pre-booking online through the referral link is strongly recommended to secure your spot.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to set up your gear and find an ideal shooting location.
Yes, there is designated parking nearby, but carpooling or early arrival is advised due to limited spaces.
Basic facilities are available at the Chama depot area, but bringing your own water and snacks is recommended.
The K-36 locomotives were built in the 1920s and have been an integral part of narrow-gauge railroading in the Rocky Mountains ever since.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is committed to historic preservation and sustainable tourism to minimize environmental impact while sharing the legacy of steam railroading.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a heritage railroad based in Antonito, Colorado, that operates scheduled scenic train experiences across the historic Cumbres Pass corridor. The railroad runs vintage 19th-century train cars and operates the historic locomotive 168 on select departures, delivering authentic steam-era travel through high mountain landscapes. Trips include themed dinner and wine trains, deluxe and parlor-car Cumbres Express services, coach and open-air gondola options, geology-focused excursions, one-way journeys between Chama and Cumbres, and combined bus–train itineraries covering the Antonito–Chama route. Many departures feature a hot lunch or dinner at Osier station, interpretive commentary from knowledgeable guides, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. The railroad highlights the region’s geology, historic trestles, and sweeping mountain vistas while preserving original rolling stock and track alignment. Visitors travel across iconic structures such as the Wolf Creek trestle and ascend Cumbres Pass, experiencing panoramic views of the Rio Grande Rift and surrounding peaks. Tickets are offered for specific named departures, including Dinner & Beer Train, 168 Dinner & Wine Train, Cumbres Express (Deluxe, Parlor, Coach), Continental Divide and Geology trains, and All Aboard Antonito one-way combinations. Passengers can choose seating classes ranging from coach to premium parlor cars and open-air gondolas for unobstructed scenery. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad emphasizes historic preservation, guided interpretation, and curated dining options to create memorable, authentic western railroad journeys from Antonito, Colorado. Reservations and ticketing details are available through channels for each named departure and seating class. Plan ahead for limited seating on popular dates.
Book with Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad