Summer might get most of the glory as far as seasons go, but fall is arguably the best time to be in Colorado.
When the leaves change colors and weather cools off, driving through the mountains and enjoying the Colorado scenery is about as good as it gets. The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, an authentic steam engine train that rumbles through the beautiful San Juan Mountains, is a great way to relax in style and bring in the new season.
And for anyone looking for a picture perfect trip, Cumbres and Toltec on Sept. 27 is hosting a “Fall Foliage Photo Train Ride.” The day will be loaded with great photo opportunities; in addition to taking pictures during the ride, the train will make a number of photo stops along the way.
Great views
The 128-year-old railroad winds its way through some of the best views Colorado has to offer. The steam engine train has guides who know the area’s history and wildlife. There is not much cell phone reception and no responsibilities for passengers other than observing the changing views that pass by the train.
“The train is good for reconnecting with people,” said Gayle Martinez, a spokeswoman for Cumbres and Toltec.
Martinez said that passengers never know exactly what they will see during the journey. Foxes, bears, hawks and eagles are commonly sighted along the six-hour trip, but nothing is guaranteed.
Another perk of the Cumbres and Toltec is the chance to go into land that has been left untouched over the decades. With the steam whistle blowing, smokestack going up and no interstates in sight, riders can get a sense of how it was in the 1880s.
Inside or outside? Your choice
There are several options for people riding the train. Passengers can relax in the indoor seating with 360-degree views window side or venture out into the open-air observation car to touch, smell and view nature in person.
And since all of that sightseeing can make a person hungry, a meal is prepared on the top of the mountain. The fresh food, beautiful sights and sense of history make Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad hard to beat for a weekend vacation.
“It’s a nice getaway and it’s relaxing,” said Martinez. “There’s no stress, everything is taken care of.”
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad takes off from Chama, Colo., which is around four hours from downtown Denver.
Call the railroad company for directions.
The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad
Information: 1-800-286-2737, Cumbrestoltec.com.
