Chama to Antonito Scenic Train Journey | Deluxe Experience | Train | Sightseeing Tour

Read the full experience

Embark on an unforgettable 64-mile journey aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, traveling in style from Chama, New Mexico to Antonito, Colorado. This Deluxe experience offers a remarkable way to soak in the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains without the hassle of bus transfers. You’ll enjoy a delicious hot lunch at the picturesque Osier Station, surrounded by rolling hills and pristine wilderness. Choose between the plush Deluxe Car, featuring comfortable indoor seating and large windows for panoramic views, or the invigorating Open-Air Gondola, perfect for spotting wildlife and feeling the mountain breeze firsthand. Knowledgeable docents accompany the ride, sharing fascinating insights about the railroad’s history, geological features, and local wildlife, enriching your experience with captivating stories along the route. This peaceful and immersive trip is ideal for travelers seeking to combine natural beauty with rich cultural heritage and excellent customer care, all in a private and relaxed atmosphere.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

6–7 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels as this is a seated train journey with minimal physical exertion.

Frequently asked questions

Is food included in the Deluxe experience?

Yes, a delicious hot lunch is served at scenic Osier Station during the trip.

Can I choose my seating option?

You can select either the Deluxe Car for indoor comfort or the Open-Air Gondola for outdoor viewing when booking.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Pets are generally not permitted, except for service animals with proper documentation.

Is there Wi-Fi or cell service onboard?

Wi-Fi and cell service are very limited or non-existent along the route, so plan accordingly.

How long is the trip from Chama to Antonito?

The journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, including the lunch stop.

Are restrooms available on the train?

Yes, restrooms are available in the Deluxe Car and at Osier Station.

Local insights

Wildlife

Mule deer
Golden eagles

History

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a preserved narrow gauge railroad originally built in the late 19th century to connect Colorado and New Mexico mining communities.

Conservation

The railroad and surrounding forests are managed with sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact while preserving historical integrity.

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 locationChama, New Mexico

Tours offered46+

Adventure tips

Book Deluxe or Open-Air EarlySeats fill up quickly since the Deluxe Car and Open-Air Gondola have limited capacity. Reserve in advance to secure the best views.

Bring Layers for Changing WeatherTemperatures can vary significantly along the route, especially in the Open-Air Gondola, so dress in comfortable layers.

Arrive Early for BoardingArriving at least 30 minutes early ensures a smooth boarding process and time to explore Chama’s historic depot.

Carry Binoculars for Wildlife ViewingBring binoculars or a zoom lens to enhance your chances of spotting deer, eagles, and other wildlife along the route.

Recommended gear

Layered Clothing: Allows you to adjust comfort levels amid changing temperatures on the train and during lunch stops.
Binoculars: Enhances your ability to spot wildlife and distant scenic details from the train.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments throughout the journey.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat help protect you during sunny summer rides, especially in the Open-Air Gondola.