John Bush Wrote:
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> I think the very best way to ride the C&TS is to
> board the train in Antonito and ride all the way
> to Chama. The high desert is most beautiful in the
> morning and that is the best time to see antelope.
> The train climbs gradually up into higher, cooler,
> and greener (or more golden) scenery, depending on
> the season. After lunch the summit of Cumbres is
> reached and an hour and twenty minutes later
> arrives in historic Chama (nearly unchanged in the
> last 50 years). The next morning it is fun to
> chase the train to Cumbres pass.
John is spot on, Urias -
But he forgot to specifically mention staying in Chama, where there are many more options for lodging & restaurants,* and you can spend your spare time checking out the historic yard. Ride the bus from Chama to Antonito in the morning and the train all the way back to Chama (IIRC this is trip #5 on the C&TS schedule).
-
Roosso
* I recommend THE (Shamrock) HOTEL & Shops – owned by Roger & Barbara Hogan – right across the street from the C&TS depot (1-800-982-8679), and the Boxcar Café, just a block or so up the street. Of course sharing a Yeti Stout or two with fellow railfans on the front porch of Foster's Hotel while watching the activities in the yard after your train gets you back to Chama is also highly recommended — I wish I could be there to join you!!