Antonito to Chama Scenic Parlor Train Journey

Read the full experience

Embark on an unforgettable 64-mile one-way train ride from Antonito, Colorado, to Chama, New Mexico, aboard the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. This private adventure offers an exclusive experience in luxurious Parlor cars, complete with plush seating and large windows that frame breathtaking mountain vistas. Feel the fresh air on the open-air Gondola, perfect for photography and soaking in the beauty of the San Juan Mountains and the surrounding wilderness. Along the way, stop at Osier Station for a delicious hot lunch served amidst stunning alpine scenery. Friendly, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and ecology of the Authentic West, making this six-hour journey both educational and relaxing. Ideal for train enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families wanting a unique way to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southwest, this trip combines comfort, history, and natural beauty in a way that’s hard to match.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

6 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels since the journey is seated and relaxed with minimal walking during stops.

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring food or drinks on board?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted on the train, but a hot lunch is provided at Osier Station during the trip.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers limited accommodations for passengers with mobility challenges; please contact the company directly for detailed assistance.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Pets are not allowed on the train except for certified service animals.

What should I wear for the trip?

Dress in layers and bring a windproof jacket, as weather conditions can change throughout the day and open-air gondola exposure can be chilly.

Can I book a private car or group seating?

Private and group bookings are available through the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad; early reservations are recommended.

Is there Wi-Fi on the train?

There is no Wi-Fi onboard, encouraging guests to unplug and enjoy the natural and historic surroundings.

Local insights

Wildlife

Mule deer
Elk

History

This narrow-gauge railroad was built in the late 19th century to connect mining towns, preserving part of the rich railroad history of the American West.

Conservation

The railroad operates with careful respect for the natural environment, preserving historic equipment while minimizing ecological impact on the fragile mountain habitats.

About This Experience

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 locationAntonito, Colorado

Tours offered46+

Adventure tips

Arrive Early to Secure SeatingParlor cars have limited seating, so plan to arrive early to get the best spots with optimal views.

Bring a Camera with a Zoom LensThe open-air Gondola provides spectacular photo opportunities, so a zoom lens helps capture distant wildlife and landscapes.

Dress in LayersTemperatures can vary significantly during the ride, especially in the open-air car, so layering helps keep you comfortable.

Limited Food Options Off-TrainSince lunch is provided on the train, there are few dining options in Antonito or Chama, so plan accordingly.

Recommended gear

Layered Clothing: Regulate comfort as temperatures can shift during the ride and weather changes.
Camera with Zoom Lens: Capture distant wildlife and stunning landscape photography from the gondola.
Sun Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from strong sun exposure, especially on the open-air car.
Warm Gloves and Scarf: Keep warm in the cooler months during the open-air portion of the ride.