Posted October 17, 2023
Chama, NM to Antonito, CO
The steam locomotives of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad give passengers an outdoor experience of a lifetime as they snake through scenic canyons, over mountain passes, and across high mountain meadows. The trains run from early June to mid-October.
Darla and I photographed the 10:00 am departure of engine #483 as it left Antonito, CO. The steam powered engine and passenger cars headed into the Colorado backcounty. At the same time, engine #484 began its trip from Chama, NM. We met that train for the first time at Cumbres Pass, then “leap-frogged” it along the highway for several additional photo opportunities.
On October 14, the last day of the 2023 train season, we rode 4 wheel off-road vehicles to the Osier Station, where we had lunch and waited for the two trains to meet in the middle of the 64 mile line. Both arrived on time. I managed to get a lot more photos⏤all set against the rugged Rocky Mountains and spectacular fall colors..
This shot was taken near the Osier Station as it chugged its way to the mid-point of the railway.
Photo Gallery
Images captured handheld with a Sony A1 and Sigma Sport 60-600mm lens.
For more information, visit the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad official web site.
For more historic train photos, click: Georgetown Loop RR | Durango-Silverton RR