I have not done the fireman's class (though it is on my bucket list), so I can't help you there. I my personal favorite spot to stay at is The Hotel and Shops in Chama. www.thehotel.org/ It is right across the street from the yard which is ideal though it tends to stay pretty booked during events. The other place I like is Vista Del Rio Lodge. vistadelriolodge.com/ You cannot walk from it to the yard but it is a bit more 'non railfan' friendly. Those would be the first two I would consider.
Brian Jansky
Houston, Tx
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