Are you looking for one of the best train rides in New Mexico? Then look no further than the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. It is an incredible experience that will show you the Land of Enchantment in a whole new way! As a matter of fact, at one time USA Today’s Ten Best “Readers’ Choice” Awards acknowledged the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad as the best train ride in the nation. We totally agree with those readers and here’s why:

1. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the most beautiful train ride in the country.
Flickr/Larry Lamsa
The train travels between Chama in Northern New Mexico and Antonito in Southern Colorado.
On the way, it passes through scenery like this.
Facebook/Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
2. This railroad has chugged its way into history.
Facebook/Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad was built in 1880 to make it easier to access Colorado’s silver mines. It is now a National Historic Landmark.
3. This is one of the last steam engines still in operation.
Facebook/Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
The steam is created by burning coal. Each day, the train engineers must shovel 3.5 to 4.5 tons of coal to keep the engine going. That's the way train rides in New Mexico originally started.
4. The rails are only 3 feet apart.
Flickr/Lee Ruk

Related Stories

Tour This New Mexico Railroad Ghost Town For A Truly Fascinating Experience

Tour This New Mexico Railroad Ghost Town For A Truly Fascinating Experience

 7 Fantastic Factory Tours You Can Only Take In New Mexico

7 Fantastic Factory Tours You Can Only Take In New Mexico

 The New Mexico Boat Cruise That'll Make Your Summer Delightful

The New Mexico Boat Cruise That'll Make Your Summer Delightful
That may not sound like a big deal, but the standard is 4 feet and 8 ½ inches.
Flickr/Lee Ruk
Narrow-gauge railways are ideal for mining and also for mountainous areas. They allow trains to move across challenging landscapes.
5. The train travels to elevations of over 10,000 feet.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Facebook page
The ride takes you to the top of the world where you'll experience the most amazing scenic views!
6. But the experience is still really relaxing.
Flickr/Glen Van Etten
Narrow-gauge track don’t allow for high speeds. You meander along the scenic 64-miles of track at speeds no higher than 20 mph.
7. There are several types of rides available.
Facebook/Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Take a half-day or a full-day trip. And, if you want to take someone on an unforgettable romantic date, book tickets on the sunset train.
8. It’s the perfect way to admire the changing foliage.
Facebook/Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Just look at those spectacular fall colors!
9. The end is only the beginning.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Facebook page
When you get to your end destination, Chama or Antonito, plan to spend a little exploring all of the things these small towns have to offer.

Things to know: The Railroad generally operates from the end of May through the end of October every year. For schedules and fares, be sure to check out The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad website, as well as The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Facebook page. We know you will consider your ride to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

This railroad, which began as a functional way to access mines, has transformed into the best train ride in the country. New Mexicans are inventive and skilled at repurposing. For another example of a place that was once tied to mining but that has since been reimagined, check out the Catwalk National Scenic Trail.

If you’d like to explore hikes dotted along the route, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.

If you’re still in the mood for more New Mexico adventures, take a look at this video:

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Adventures in New Mexico

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | August 21, 2023

Where can we find historic sites in New Mexico?

  • Santa Fe Plaza in downtown Santa Fe began as a walled fort in the city’s early days.
  • The Las Trampas Historic District and San José de Gracia Church in Chamisal are one of the most beautiful landmarks in the state.
  • The Lincoln Historic District in Lincoln encompasses 17 structures and outbuildings.

Read on to learn more about the many historic sites in New Mexico.

Where can we go to watch the sunrises in New Mexico?

  • Santa Rosa Lake in Santa Rosa features dramatic sunrise colors across the water.
  • The Sangre de Cristo Mountains draw folks from all over the state, particularly photographers who capture amazing sunrise shots.
  • The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in San Antonio offers spectacular views of the refuge, especially first thing in the morning.

Read on to learn more about the many places where you can go to watch sunrises in New Mexico.

Where can we find breweries in New Mexico?

  • The Little Toad Creek Brewery & Distillery with locations in Silver City and Las Cruces serves great brews as well as awesome food.
  • The Rio Grande Grill and Tap Room in Ruidoso have won multiple medals and offer beer samples and amazing food.
  • La Reforma Brewery in Albuquerque offers a wide variety of both house and seasonal beer varieties.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other awesome breweries in New Mexico.

Related Articles

Explore New Mexico

Featured Addresses
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520, USA