February 25, 2010 12:32PM
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Registered: 16 years ago
Posts: 686
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I've ridden the Silverton line many many times. Been to Chama and Antonito, but never have ridden Cumbres yet. So my experiences only are for the Silverton.
If I can't be in the cab of the loco or traveling along in a putt putt car/speeder, which I would totally recommend if you can, I actually prefer the first car. But it has to be the Home Ranch #213.
Home Ranch may have had a recent name change, as I seem to recall this. But the car I'm referring to is the 1980s constructed combine that has the wheelchair lift.
This car, being relatively new compared to most of the other cars, rides smoother and is more roomy then the typical coach. The restroom is handicap accessible and is huge. Plus there are less seats in this car so it is less crowded. Also being at the front of the train, very few people walk through it. The conductor or brakeman also uses the small desk in the car as a work station which is interesting to watch.
Cinders are a problem if you leave the window open, but who cares. Just wear sunglasses so your eyes are protected. The loco sound is best from the first car, and the tender water fill is also a treat to see from the first car. And you get a really nice view of the rear of the train in the many tight curves.
So if I was ridding the Silverton line and had to travel in a coach, my preference is Home Ranch.
UPDATE
OK I found out what Home Ranch has been renamed to; Bitter Root Mine.
And as I mentioned above, if you can do it, go for a speeder trip. I think it is the best way to see the Silverton line. And you can get off and explore a bit as time permits. Here's an article my dad wrote for Trains magazine (note it is a very large image so I linked it):
Speeder Article
Matt
Lake Forest, CA
Click Here for my model train photo website
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 02/25/2010 04:59PM by San Juan.
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Festus |
February 25, 2010 11:27AM |
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Rich Muth |
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Steve Singer |
February 26, 2010 08:30AM |
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John Wilke |
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February 27, 2010 01:09PM |
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JS Driver |
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EBTfan15 |
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Andrew Brandon |
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Russo Loco |
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dougvv |
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HighCommander |
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Russo Loco |
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dougvv |
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HighCommander |
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John Wilke |
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dougvv |
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Rick Steele |
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Festus |
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dougvv |
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dougvv |
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dougvv |
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SMITTY |
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Stewart Rhine |
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SMITTY |
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San Juan |
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Merl |
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