Adventure Collective
Outlaw Express: Scenic Evening Train Ride in Chama, NM - Santa Fe

Outlaw Express: Scenic Evening Train Ride in Chama, NM

Chamaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

No special fitness level is required beyond being able to board and disembark the train comfortably.

Overview

Embark on the Outlaw Express for a scenic evening train ride to Cumbres Pass, featuring stunning views and a delicious BBQ dinner. Discover a unique New Mexico adventure away from the usual crowds.

Antonito, Colorado

Outlaw Express

4 hours • Departing from Chama • A special evening ride, with a BBQ dinner

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About This Adventure

Experience a unique evening train ride to Cumbres Pass, the highest operational railroad pass in the U.S. Enjoy breathtaking views and wildlife sightings from the Open-Air Gondola, followed by a delicious BBQ dinner from Outlaw BBQ. This memorable journey combines scenic beauty with mouthwatering cuisine for an unforgettable adventure.

Join us for a special evening train ride up to Cumbres Pass, and end your trip with a BBQ dinner!

Itinerary

Leaving from Outlaw BBQ restaurant in Chama, NM at 3:00 p.m., we'll take you up to Cumbres Pass, the highest operational railroad pass in America, and return to Chama where you will then enjoy a BBQ dinner**, brought to you by Outlaw BBQ company, around 6:00 p.m.

** Some Outlaw Express events will offer a surf & turf buffet instead of the BBQ dinner. Please see offerings on our schedule below!

Schedule of Outlaw Express Events

August 7 - Outlaw Express: Brews, Views, and Que'

  • Adult: $135
  • Child 6-12: $80
  • Child 2-5: $45

Included in your ticket price is dinner of sliced brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey, homemade pinto beans, mustard potato salad, and creamy coleslaw.

October 9 - Outlaw Express: Surf & Turf

  • Adult: $175
  • Child 6-12: $120
  • Child 2-5: $85

Included in your ticket price is a dinner of 12 ounce smoked prime Angus smoked ribeye, 4 ounces smoked Atlantic salmon, grilled asparagus, and baked potato.


Duration: 3 hours

Please arrive 30 minutes before departure.

Train Car Information

COACH CAR

A ride that is budget-friendly. Relax, open your window and take in the fresh Rocky Mountain air. Our classic Coach cars offer comfortable padded bench seating. Snacks and beverages are available in our concession car. Feel free to move about the train and experience the Open-Air Gondola.

GONDOLA CAR

For all Passengers: Our Open-Air Observation Platform (Gondola) Provides unobstructed views, great photo opportunities, and a chance to spot some of the abundant wildlife in the area. Throughout the trip, you’ll find friendly, informative guides/docents to take you on this journey of the Authentic West…. as it was 140 + years ago, as it is today.

What to Bring

For your comfort, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad recommends that you consider the following when planning your trip:

  • The mountains can bring about sudden changes in the weather. It is important to wear layered clothing and in the late summer and fall, bring a jacket.
  • Sunscreen and ball caps are also suggested to protect you from the stronger sun rays.
  • Wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes is also important to protect your toes and ankles when in the yard and on the train.
  • If spending time in the open gondola car, it is very important to wear protective eyewear to protect against cinders getting into your eyes. Sunglasses and prescription glasses are fine. We also sell safety glasses for your convenience.
  • We also recommend bug spray because mosquitoes sometimes stow away on the train during the ride.

COACHES ARE NOT HEATED.

Adventure Tips

Dress in layers for changing temperatures

Evenings in the mountains can get chilly, so layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the trip.

Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting

The open-air gondola offers great birdwatching and animal viewing opportunities along the route.

Arrive early for best seat selection

Seating in the open-air gondola is limited; arriving early ensures the best views during the journey.

Stay hydrated before and after the trip

While the ride itself is relaxed, the altitude and cooler air can be dehydrating.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Elk frequenting meadows near Cumbres Pass
  • Mule deer spotted along the railroad corridor

History

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad operates on tracks originally built in the late 19th century to connect remote mountain communities.

Conservation

The railroad works closely with environmental groups to preserve local habitats and limit any ecological impact of its operations.

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Adventure Hotspots in Santa Fe

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layered clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable during chilly mountain evenings and varying temperatures.

fall specific

Binoculars

Enhances your ability to spot wildlife from the open-air gondola.

Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)

Essential

Protects you from sun exposure during extended daytime hours.

summer specific

Camera with zoom lens

Useful for capturing detailed shots of scenic landscapes and distant wildlife.