All Aboard! New Mexico Offers Unique Train Experiences

By Michele Robertson

Trains have a long and fascinating history, and while still in use today, mostly for the transportation of goods, there are still a few trains out there that offer ride services. New Mexico and Colorado have trains to ride for fun as well as to use as transportation.

The Cumbres & Toltec operates out of Chama and offers a scenic drive to either Osier, CO, or Antonito, CO. The Durango Silverton narrow gauge train runs from Durango, CO, to Silverton, CO. Sky Railway in Santa Fe hosts multiple entertainment rides, which use the same railway as the Amtrak that runs through Lamy. The Amtrak can take you to California and is on the Southwest Chief route from Chicago, IL, to Los Angeles, CA. Having been on three of the four mentioned, this piece explores their pros and cons.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is a National Landmark owned by both New Mexico and Colorado. While on the ride, passengers can cross the border up to 11 times as they traverse through the Rocky Mountains. Riding in July, after a wet winter, provided a plethora of wildflowers in bloom for viewing. Along with forests of aspens and evergreens, wildlife can be spotted at times, and there are always railfans (train enthusiasts who watch the trains) following along.

This particular ride had a docent in every train car, providing a wealth of information about the history of the train, the area, as well as regional legends and lore. Cumbres & Toltec allows passengers to move about freely on the train and enjoy the outdoors in one of the open-air gondolas. They offer many options for riding the train, the Chama Limited is a six-hour-and-20-minute ride and departs from Chama, stopping in Osier for a hot lunch before returning back to Chama.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is also a National Landmark and runs through the San Juan Mountains. The views during this train ride are stunning as the train winds its way through the San Juan National Forest and along the Animas River.

Taking the Scenic Silverton Round Trip excursion, passengers will have a three-and-a-half-hour ride to Silverton, CO, spend a couple of hours there, and then head back along the same route. Railfans can be seen from the train as you embark on your journey, waving at intersections and cruising along the highway nearby. Riders are asked to remain seated unless they are going to the bathroom or getting something from the concession car.

On the Sky Railway adventure train, riders are able to choose from a variety of themed trips. George R.R. Martin and other prominent Santa Feans brought the Sky Railway to life after the Santa Fe Southern ended. The lineup of adventure rail trips is plentiful, with a multitude of options to choose from.

Our trip was on the Sunset Serenade, an approximately two-and-a-half-hour and all-ages ride, which made for an excellent start to a Santa Fe getaway. There was live music in every car, along with a concession area in each car. Friendly bartenders and staff on board made for an enjoyable trip. New Mexico residents also receive a 10% discount on tickets.

While all three are comparable in cost, my personal favorite is the Cumbres & Toltec. The vibe and atmosphere on the train were incredible, and the views were stunning. Coming in second is the Sky Railway with its unique offerings and closer proximity.

Last for me is the Durango & Silverton train. The views were spectacular, but the ride felt like transportation rather than an experience. I’m all about the experience and how I feel afterward.

I encourage readers to try out a train ride whenever the opportunity arises, and any one mentioned will be a great time, but that Cumbres & Toltec train ride will always be what I recommend if you can only do one.