From fireworks to photo trains, from geology tours to smelling wildflowers, the Cumbres & Toltec has a special train for your interests in 2018.
Every ride on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – the highest, longest and most authentic steam railroad in America – is a great experience, but in 2018, the railroad will be offering a variety of special trains for different interests. From a Fourth of July fireworks train, to a geology train looking at the geologic formations in Toltec Gorge; from a Wildflower Express stopping to smell the flowers along the way to a Fiesta Special with onboard mariachis, these trains offer something extra.
The Cumbres & Toltec is a rolling National Historic Landmark with steam trains departing daily from both Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico. Each train chugs through 64 miles of rugged Rocky Mountain Scenery, crossing the border of Colorado and New Mexico 11 times. All regular rides include a delicious hot lunch midway at Osier station, and all of our special Sunset Dinner Trains feature a spectacular prime rib dinner at Cumbres Pass.
Here are some of the Specials in 2018. Many will sell out, so don’t delay and book today!
- Opening Day, May 26 – Ceremonies at both the Antonito and Chama Depots began at 9 a.m. and include blessings from local nation spiritual leaders and local priests and ministers, Veteran color guards and Boy Scout flag raisings speeches from local dignitaries and music. We’ll have a special Sunset Dinner Train that evening, featuring DJ El Norteño!
- SOLD OUT! Geology Train, June 17 – Join US Geological Survey’s Emeritus Scientist Peter Lipman for a ride through one of the most unique, varied geologic areas in the US. Stop at many outcrops and rail cuts along the right of way, to mingle, marvel and collect photographs, samples and experiences only accessible on the train route. All riders will receive a special mile-by-mile geologic rail log.
- Father’s Day discounts, June 17 – What a special way to celebrate Dad by sharing the thrill of riding together on what USA Today calls the “No. 1 train ride in America.” And Dads riding with another full fare adult ride free in coach class! Dads riding with children ages 12 years or younger will get a 50 percent discount on their fare. (Lunch fees still apply.) Make memories you will treasure on Father’s Day! Discount applies to all regular departures on Sunday, June 17th, 2018 — call us at 1-888-286-2737 for details and to book.
- 4th of July Dinner Train, features sunset views, a patriotic attire contest, dinner on Cumbres Pass, entertainment and viewing from the train for a front-row sight of the fireworks display, before returning to the Chama Depot parking lot at 10 p.m.
- Wildflower Express, August 5 – Learn about the beautiful wildflowers, plant life and fauna along the Cumbres & Toltec from a botanist who will offer commentary about the varied ecosystems the train travels through. Enjoy a special guidebook and several unscheduled stops along the route to observe flora and fauna.
Sunset Dinner Trains – Each train will offer a slightly different theme, but all will feature incredible views of the sunset, entertainment and a delicious dinner on Cumbres Pass. Dates and themes for 2018:
- May 26, 2018, Opening Day #315 Osier Dinner Train, Cumbres to Antonito, Entertainment by El Norteño – DJ
- 4th of July Dinner Train, 5:00 P.M. – Chama to Cumbres and back by train 10:00 p.m., Entertainment by El Norteño – DJ, special 4th of July contest for patriotic attire. See the best fireworks show from the train at the front row of the display. Passengers are then returned by train to the parking lot at the Chama Depot.
- July 28, 2018, Saturday Night Dinner Train, 5:00 p.m. – Chama to Cumbres and back by train 9:00 p.m., Costume Contest, Theme: 1960s Aspen, CO and entertainment by Chris Collins, John Denver Tribute Artist.
- August 11, 2018, During Chama Days, Saturday Night Dinner Train 5:00 p.m. – Chama to Cumbres and back by train 9:00 p.m. Costume Contest, Theme: Northern NM fiesta attire and entertainment by Mariachis Azteca of Santa Fe, NM.
- September 15, 2018, Saturday Night Dinner Train, 5:00 p.m. – Chama to Cumbres and back by train 9:00 p.m., Costume Contest, Theme WWII France, Murder Mystery “Last Train from Paris,” music by El Norteño, with French “flair.”
- October 13, 2018, Speakeasy Saturday Night Dinner Train, 5:00 p.m. – Chama to Cumbres and back by train 9:00 p.m., Costume Contest: Prohibition Wear, Entertainment by James Doyle and the Jazz Collective.
Other special offerings for the 2018 Season:
- Galloping Goose #5, September 29, 30 and October 1 and more dates – TBA – The Galloping Goose will make a return appearance offering passengers the opportunity to experience these unusual contraptions that were put together in the 1930s and carried mail and passengers in Colorado until the 1950s.
- Trains Magazine 50th Anniversary of the Final Freight Train, Photo Charter Train, August 24, 25 & 26 – To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the last revenue freight on the legendary Rio Grande narrow gauge, Trains Magazine is hosting a special event featuring a 20-car freight pulled by double-headed Rio Grande K-36 Mikado steam locomotives, including No. 484 from the last run in 1968, and another K-36, which will be presented as No. 483 for this once-in-a-lifetime event. Participants will enjoy multiple photo run-bys at exclusive locations, two hot lunches and a prime rib dinner with entertainment at Cumbres Pass on Saturday night, a night photo session on Friday, and the splendor of the Rio Grande narrow gauge in the San Juan Mountains. Every participant will receive a copy of our Colorado Railroads video and our forthcoming video Rio Grande Narrow Gauge Freights, a $50 value, as part of the ticketing. Seating is limited and costs $695. More info: https://cumbrestoltec.com/schedule-fares/special-events/. Also, please note that online reservations for this special event are not available and you must call the Depot at 1-888-286-2737.