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Hop on a historic train from Chama, New Mexico, and hike the stunning Continental Divide. Discover breathtaking mountain views and rich Western history on this private outdoor adventure!
Hop on a historic train from Chama, New Mexico, and hike the stunning Continental Divide. Discover breathtaking mountain views and rich Western history on this private outdoor adventure!
Book with Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad · Chama, New Mexico
Experience a truly unique outdoor adventure with the Continental Divide Hike from Chama, hosted by Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. This private experience combines a scenic train ride from Chama to Cumbres with a hike along the iconic Continental Divide, offering unmatched views of the Rocky Mountains. Departing from Chama, you'll climb aboard the authentic Open-Air Gondola cars, where fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas set the tone. Along the way, expert guides share stories about the rich history of the American West, providing context that deepens your appreciation of this remarkable region. The hike itself challenges and rewards with breathtaking landscapes, alpine meadows, and the chance to walk one of North America's most famous natural ridges. Ideal for those seeking outdoor solitude and unforgettable scenery, this experience captures the spirit of adventure in New Mexico's high country. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or looking to try something new, this trip offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and physical challenge.
moderate.
4–6 hours.
Participants should be in good physical condition with the ability to hike uneven terrain at higher elevations.
The hike is moderate in difficulty, so while beginners can participate, they should be prepared for uneven terrain and some elevation gain.
Children over 10 years old who have hiking experience and stamina may enjoy this trip, but younger kids might find it challenging.
Pets are generally not allowed on the train or during the hike to preserve safety and comfort for all travelers.
Bring water, layered clothing, a camera, and sun protection for the open-air gondola train ride.
Transportation to Chama is not included; travelers typically arrive by car or arrange separate transport.
Meals are not included, so bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the experience.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad preserves one of the last remaining narrow-gauge steam railroads that served the American West in the late 19th century.
Efforts focus on protecting the fragile high-altitude ecosystem by encouraging Leave No Trace principles and limiting train passenger numbers.
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