Cumbres Toltec
The well-known push of the engine, steam flying over your head almost constantly, the sound of metal going over tracks! running for 64 miles between Antonito Colorado and Chama New Mexico is a railroad that has been around since 1881. The Cumbres and Toltec scenic railroad is a narrow gauge heritage railroad that was designated a historical landmark since 1973.
this railroad has been featured in several films including Indiana Jones and the last Crusade. In 1988, a nonprofit organization called friends of the Cumbres and Toltec scenic Railroad was established to preserve the history and to educate future generations. This is one of the few examples of two organizations working symbiotically in these modern times!
depending on the Time one wishes to depart and experience the railroad and the excursion, one either starts in Chama New Mexico or take the shuttle bus to Antonito Colorado. The bus Is cozy and the ride is rather pleasant, not revealing any of the rail experience except for the last mile or so but instead showing you a view from the road experience of the region.
Once you reach the starting point of your railroad trip, you get a bit of time to explore the station itself. It's interesting to see how a small town seemed to grow from a station in Chama. As in Roswell and other such places, every thing had some form of attachment to the rail road.
and then do you begin your journey.
In all my time of exploring this great country of ours, I have never seen sites quite like those experienced on the railroad. Those working on the train deem the railroad experience to be a living museum. Everything from tunnels blasted out of the mountain to small patches of canyon with haunting stories To experiencing the very train itself, this trip is one in 1 million!
I would give this experience a 9 out of 10. The drive was a bit long from SANTA FE and was very early in the morning so those of you in the area, it will be an all day experience but it will be worth it!
Remember to always stay curious and to always seek new adventures! It is very important that you keep learning and trying new things! Remember you can email me at friendsoffolklore@gmail.com!
