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Classes of Service on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

From the opulent Victorian luxury of the 1880s to comfortable, family-friendly heritage cars, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers four distinct ways to experience the Rockies. Whether you’re seeking a private observation platform or an authentic open-window adventure, find the perfect seat for your journey below.


Parlor Observation Car (formerly Parlor Car): The Ultimate Victorian Experience

Experience the Victorian era elegance from aboard our first class service, Parlor cars. A level of luxury, service, and comfort that once was reserved for such dignitaries as railroad barons and mining kings.

As our most exclusive class, Parlor Observation passengers enjoy access to the private rear observation platform—the literal “tail of the train” — providing an unobstructed view of the tracks receding into the majestic Rocky Mountains

Parlor Observation cars offer lounge style comfort and panoramic windows that open to the unspoiled grandeur of the Authentic West. Parlor Observation accommodates guests 21 years of age and older.

Your ticket includes a buffet lunch, morning pastry and fresh fruit, afternoon snack, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and additional souvenirs. A personal attendant is on board to take orders and describe the history throughout the line. Beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase.

Parlor Car (formerly Premium Car): Modern Comfort & Individual Seating

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility in our Parlor Class. Formerly known as our Premium Class, this car remains a favorite for those who value space, tranquility, and a guaranteed view.

Designed with the discerning traveler in mind, every passenger is provided with their own individual window seat, ensuring an unobstructed perspective of the Toltec Gorge and the surrounding wilderness.

The Parlor Class offers a spacious, refined atmosphere, making it the ideal choice for photographers and those looking to immerse themselves in the scenery without the bustle of larger groups.

Capacity is limited to up to 20 guests, guaranteeing a spacious experience and unobstructed views of the gorgeous untamed terrain along the Colorado-New Mexico border.

Your ticket includes a buffet lunch, morning pastry,  afternoon snack, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, a souvenir die cast key chain, and a souvenir tumbler. A personal attendant is on board to take orders and describe the history throughout the line. Beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase.

The Deluxe Car: Family-Friendly First Class

Perfect for families and groups, The Deluxe Car features elegant cafe-style seating with tables for two or four, offering an elevated social experience for travelers of all ages. Guests enjoy the dedicated service of a personal attendant, inclusive morning and afternoon snacks, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and a commemorative C&TSRR gift. It’s the ideal choice for those who want a first-class feel while sharing the magic of the Rockies with the whole family.

The Deluxe car offers table seating for easy conversation and capacity is limited to up to 24 guests. Table seating in this car is offered at a two top table or a four top table.

Your ticket includes a buffet lunch, morning and afternoon snack, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages and a souvenir notebook and pen set featuring the Cumbres & Toltec logo. A personal attendant is on board to take orders and describe the history throughout the line. Beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase with a valid ID.

Coach Car: Authentic Heritage Travel

For a truly traditional 1880s experience, Coach Car offers comfortable, padded bench seating in our classic narrow-gauge cars, where windows open wide to the fresh mountain air and the rhythmic sounds of the steam locomotive. All ages are welcome to enjoy this authentic journey, which includes full access to the Open-Air Gondola and the On-Board Concessions car for a variety of snacks, beverages, and full bar service available for purchase.

Each of our coach cars seats up to 40 guests.

Your ticket includes a delicious buffet lunch.

ADA Compliant

The Open-Air Gondola: Unobstructed 360° Views

Available to passengers in every class of service, the Open-Air Gondola is the heart of the Cumbres & Toltec experience. This specially designed car offers a front-row seat to the untamed wilderness, providing unobstructed 360-degree views perfect for capturing the ultimate photo or spotting elk, bears, and eagles. Throughout your journey, our friendly and knowledgeable docents share a lively narrative of the railroad’s storied history and the spectacular geology of the High Rockies.

Whether you’re feeling the spray of the steam or breathing in the scent of the pines, the Gondola is where the “Authentic West” comes to life. To ensure a comfortable ride at 10,000 feet, we recommend dressing in layers for shifting mountain weather and bringing a hat, sunglasses, and wearing closed-toed shoes.

Ready To Begin Your Railroad Adventure?