Thursday, October 1, 2015

#170: The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (pg 667, 2nd Ed pg 829)


 The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is North America's longest and highest narrow-gauge steam railroad.  It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012 and is the most complete example of late nineteenth century narrow gauge railroading in the country.

Built in 1880 it was part of the Denver and Rio Grande extension into the silver-rich San Juan Mountains near Silverton, CO.  

During the summer months, half-day trips and dinner trains are available.

May-Oct, there are 3 different options to choose from where you can take a motor coach to Antonito and return by train, take a train to Antonito and return by motor coach or take the train both ways.  The prices are the same for all choices but vary by whether you choose the Coach ($95 for Adults/$49 for kids), Tourist ($139 for adult/ $69 for kids) or Parlor ($179 - must be 21 yrs of age or older to ride).


  

Verdict:  I love the history, the scenery and the charm of this town and Railroad.  If you have the time (it's an all day excursion this time of year), it's worth doing.  But if not,  you can still see much of the scenery of the nearby Rio Grande National Forest by car/hiking and feel just fine dying without actually riding the train.

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