Chasing the Cumbres and Toltec, Fall 2016. Act 1: The Chase from Chama to Osier, NM

We always start our Train trip with a chase from Chama, NM to Oiser, CO- the lunch stop for the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. Through the Chama Valley, you can find great views as the train climbs to Cumbres Pass. From Cumbres Pass we take Apache Canyon to get to the old track maintenance town of Osier, CO. Depending on the time of year, the fording of the Rio de Los Pinos river can be fun.

Upon arriving to our camp above Sublette, NM, we heard the train whistle and quickly ran down to the old track maintenance town just in time to see the Chama train pull in. The trains perform a quick maintenance check before continuing on- this train would finish in Antonito, CO.

Dan and Martin waiting for the train.

On it’s way to Antonito, CO.

Corbet coming into camp.

Doesnt get much better than this.

Sunrise over the San Luis Valley and the Sangre de Christo Mountains.

Morning aspens.

Dan S warming up the FJ60.

The start of today’s chase. Parked at the train depot in Chama, NM.

Getting ready for the day’s outing.

#484 close ups.

Making out way through the Chama Valley, waiting for the train for the next set of pics.

Just below “Windy Point”.

#484 coming up to Cumbres Pass.

At the trail head for Apache Canyon.

Starting an enjoyable drive to Osier, CO.

Apache Creek.

Fording the Rio de Los Pinos River.

We made it to Osier just as the Antonito Train was pulling in.

On our way back to camp. San Luis Valley in the distance.

#483 pulling into Sublette, NM.

#483 on it’s way to Antonito, CO.

Enjoying a nice meal with good company.

Dan S and I then ran up above camp to catch the last of the evening light.

Earths shadow.

Another fine evening around the campfire.

End.