Chama to Antonito Scenic Deluxe Train Journey

Read the full experience

Embark on the unforgettable Chama One Way: Chama to Antonito Deluxe experience, a breathtaking 64-mile journey aboard the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Unlike traditional tours, this trip offers a direct rail journey without the usual bus transfer, providing uninterrupted views of New Mexico's stunning high desert and mountain landscapes. Passengers can choose to ride in the elegant Deluxe Car, featuring comfortable seating and panoramic windows or the Open-Air Gondola for an immersive experience surrounded by fresh air and nature sounds. Along the way, a delicious hot lunch is served at the picturesque Osier Station, providing a perfect moment to relax and soak in the views. Knowledgeable docents accompany the trip, sharing fascinating stories about the railroad’s history, engineering feats, and the diverse flora and fauna. Wildlife spotting is common, especially near Osier, making it a dream outing for nature lovers and photographers. This private adventure blends historical intrigue, culinary delight, and scenic beauty for a memorable journey through one of the Southwest’s most remarkable landscapes.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

6–7 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels, as the adventure involves mostly sitting with minimal walking required.

Frequently asked questions

Is food included on the train ride?

Yes, a hot lunch is served at the scenic Osier Station as part of the Deluxe experience.

Can I choose between the Deluxe Car and the Open-Air Gondola?

Yes, guests may select either the Deluxe Car for comfort or the Open-Air Gondola for open-air views when booking.

How long does the trip last?

The one-way journey from Chama to Antonito takes approximately 6 to 7 hours including the lunch stop.

Are there restroom facilities on the train?

Yes, restrooms are available on board both the Deluxe Car and the Open-Air Gondola.

What should I wear on the train?

We recommend dressing in layers to stay comfortable given varying temperatures throughout the ride.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers limited accessibility; please contact them directly to discuss specific needs.

Local insights

Wildlife

Elk
Golden eagles

History

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is one of the last remaining narrow-gauge railroads in the U.S., built in 1880 to connect Colorado and New Mexico.

Conservation

The railroad operates with an emphasis on preserving the historic landscape and habitats along its route, supporting ongoing wildlife protection efforts.

About Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

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.

Base locationChama, New Mexico

Tours offered46+

Adventure tips

Reserve Deluxe Car EarlyThe Deluxe Car offers the best comfort and panoramic views; book early to ensure availability.

Bring BinocularsA pair of binoculars will enhance your wildlife spotting, especially near Osier Station.

Dress in LayersTemperatures can vary greatly between the mountains and valleys, so wear layers for comfort.

Arrive Early For BoardingArriving at least 30 minutes prior ensures smooth boarding and time to settle comfortably.

Recommended gear

Comfortable layered clothing: Layers help adapt to varying temperatures from morning chill to afternoon warmth.
Binoculars: Helps spot distant wildlife and detailed landscape features during the journey.
Camera with zoom lens: Capture the stunning scenery and wildlife from inside the train or open gondola.
Sun hat and sunscreen: Protect yourself from high-altitude sun exposure during the brighter summer months.