Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad
Chama, New Mexico to Antonito, Colorado, USA
A real coal-fired steam train over a 10,000 foot pass is pure adventure, though the full day and remote location take a little planning.
How the Dad Score breaks down
Scored July 2026- Together time20/20
- Hours side by side in the open car, smelling coal smoke and spotting elk together.
- Low faff14/20
- Remote high country and a full-day commitment; the half-day option needs picking deliberately.
- Value18/20
- A genuine 1920s steam journey over a 10,000 foot pass for ordinary ticket money.
- Age span17/20
- From about five up; the Cumbres Express keeps it manageable for younger riders.
- Weatherproof18/20
- The train runs regardless and covered coaches wait behind the open car.
Editorial, never paid. How the Dad Score works
This is the highest and longest authentic narrow-gauge steam railroad in North America, a National Historic Landmark running 64 miles between Chama and Antonito. The train crosses the state line eleven times, climbs to the 10,015 foot Cumbres Pass, and rolls past gorges, trestles and tunnels behind a genuine 1920s steam locomotive. It is the kind of journey that feels like stepping into another century.
Why it works for a dad and child
Hours side by side watching the engine work, smelling the coal smoke and spotting elk and eagles from the open car make for a proper shared adventure. The shorter Cumbres Express half-day option keeps it manageable for a younger child.
Highlights
- Authentic 1920s coal-fired steam engine
- Climb to 10,015 foot Cumbres Pass
- Cascade Trestle and rock tunnels
- Elk, deer and eagle sightings
Is Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad worth it with kids?
girl.dad gives Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad a Dad Score of 87/100. A real coal-fired steam train over a 10,000 foot pass is pure adventure, though the full day and remote location take a little planning.
What should we plan for at Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad?
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad is in Chama, New Mexico to Antonito, Colorado, USA. Best age on the listing is 5+, the price band is $$, and the best time to go is Late spring to mid autumn.
Pick the half-day Cumbres Express if your child is on the younger side, and bring a warm layer. It is cold and windy at the summit even in summer.