Quick Details
Meeting Point: Antonito Train Station, 5234 US HWY 285
September 20th: Steam Train
October 3rd: Diesel Train
Adult
Ages 13+
$ 235
Child
Ages 2-12
$ 200
Infant
Ages 0-1
Dark Sky Train – A Celestial Journey Through the San Luis Valley
Climb aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for an unforgettable night under one of the darkest skies in the world. Departing from the historic Antonito Station, the Dark Sky Train will journey through the heart of the San Luis Valley, renowned for its crystal-clear skies and minimal light pollution.
As twilight deepens, the train travels to Big Horn, where guests will disembark to experience the full brilliance of the cosmos. With the Milky Way stretching overhead, you’ll witness constellations, planets, and deep-sky wonders rarely seen with the naked eye.
Bring your camera, telescope, or binoculars, and prepare for a night of awe and discovery. Local astronomers and guides may be on hand to help you navigate the stars, while the quiet, high-altitude setting creates the perfect backdrop for stargazing. Derek Wallentinsen is an independent educator who has been deeply involved in astronomy outreach and dark skies preservation throughout his life. He is a founding member of the New Mexico DarkSky Chapter, a NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador, NASA ASP Eclipse Ambassador and AUI Astronomy in Chile Educator Ambassador, sharing astronomy knowledge with broadly diverse groups of the public. During his time as a National Park Service ranger, Derek was instrumental in the certification of several national parks as International Dark Sky Parks (including Dinosaur National Monument and El Morro National Monument) and was the recipient of three STAR awards. He has a Master of Science degree in Astrophysics. In addition to telescopes, night and day skies, he enjoys desert hiking, geology and birds from his home base in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or simply love the night sky, the Dark Sky Train offers a rare and magical experience—where the rails meet the stars.
All aboard for a night you’ll never forget.
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- Round-Trip Train Ride
Scenic evening journey from Antonito Station to Big Horn and back on the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. - Access to Concession Car
Purchase snacks, beverages, and light refreshments onboard during your ride. - Sunset Viewing at Big Horn
Disembark to enjoy a spectacular high-desert sunset at this remote, historic location. - Stargazing Stop Under Dark Skies
Experience one of the darkest skies in the world, perfect for viewing the Milky Way, constellations, and deep-sky objects. - Leisure Time at Big Horn
Time off the train to explore, set up cameras or telescopes, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. - Knowledgeable Crew & Guides
Friendly staff available to answer questions and ensure your comfort throughout the journey.
- Round-Trip Train Ride
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Itinerary:
- Departure: 6:30 PM | Return: 11:00 PM
Boarding Location: Antonito Station
Step into an evening of adventure and awe aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad’s Dark Sky Train. Here’s what to expect on this unforgettable journey:
🕡 6:30 PM – Departure from Antonito Station
Climb aboard our historic train and settle in for a scenic ride through the majestic San Luis Valley as daylight fades.🍿 Concession Car Open
Enjoy a variety of snacks and refreshments available for purchase onboard. Relax and take in the views from the comfort of your seat or mingle in the concession car.🌄 Sunset Stop at Big Horn
Arrive at Big Horn, a historic and remote stop along the Cumbres & Toltec line. Step off the train just in time to witness a breathtaking sunset over the mountains.🌌 Stargazing Under Pristine Skies
As darkness falls, prepare to be amazed. The San Luis Valley is one of the darkest places on Earth, offering unparalleled views of the night sky. Bring your camera, telescope, or binoculars to fully enjoy the constellations, planets, and Milky Way overhead.🚂 11:00 PM – Return to Antonito Station
After a peaceful and magical evening under the stars, reboard the train for a quiet ride back, arriving around 11:00 PM. - Departure: 6:30 PM | Return: 11:00 PM
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What to bring
⭐ What to Bring for the Dark Sky Train ⭐
Warm Layers or Jacket – Even in summer, nights in the San Luis Valley can get chilly.
Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be stepping off the train onto uneven ground at Big Horn.
Camera or Smartphone – Capture the stars, sunset, and scenic views.
Tripod – Great for night photography or stabilizing telescopes/binoculars.
Telescope or Binoculars – Optional, but perfect for stargazing up close.
Blanket or Camp Chair – For added comfort during the stargazing stop.
Flashlight or Headlamp (Red Light Preferred) – Helps you see in the dark without affecting night vision.
Snacks & Water – Additional refreshments are available onboard, but feel free to bring your own.
Curiosity & Wonder – Be ready to experience one of the darkest skies in the world!
September 20th – (Waning Crescent) You’re in for a sky rich with subtle yet beautiful alignments—the faint but elegant crescent Moon near the glowing Venus and Regulus, Saturn glowing all night, Jupiter rising late, and the exciting close up of Titan’s passage across Saturn. It’s one of those nights where even casual sky gazers will be enchanted.
October 3rd – (Waxing Gibbous) You’ll step outside to find a nearly full Moon dominating the sky. Below it—or rising just afterward—you can catch the minor planet Ceres at opposition, perfectly placed for view with binoculars or more. As the evening progresses, keep an eye out for Saturn slowly edging closer to the Moon, leading into a beautiful conjunction.
