Cumbres and Toltec, Fall 2021. Act 1: The Train Ride

I headed down to Chama after work. A slow drive at times with the weather, but always a beautiful one. Opted for the more direct I-25/La Veta Pass route since it was late in the day. I pushed hard to get to a view of the Conejos River Valley before dusk. Then an enjoyable evening drive over Cumbres Pass before checking into my room at the Chama Shops and Hotel.

After a great nights sleep, I was up early. Hoped to find breakfast but reminded myself that I was in Chama- things move a little differently around here “Chama time” as the locals say. So, after a chat with another rail fan, I headed over to the grocery store for a morning snack before spending time taking pics of the trains at the Chama Yard.

I was excited for another day riding and photographing the Cumbres & Toltec. Something I’ve come to love. I rode the train from Chama to Antonito with a bus back to Chama. for a fall train ride, the weather was perfect. Overcast with a bit of rain ang fog mixed in for the day. Back in Chama, it was nice to walk to the hotel from the train yard and enjoy a quiet evening.

Enjoying the last bit of light and the Conejos River Valley.

Morning preparations.

Working through the Chama Valley.

It was a full ride in the open air car. A fun thing to see.

Chama Valley.

Some of my favorite Aspens.

You can always find railfans at certain spots of the C&TS train ride.

Moody views of the Chama Valley.

Dropping into the Los Pinos Valley.

Following along the Rio de Los Pinos.

The “lady in Blue” session. Never got to thank them for being a fun subject to photograph.

Comin into Osier.

After lunch at Osier, it was a wet ride for a while as we made our way towards Sublette. Luckily the folks around me were good sports while I took photos out the half open window.

Always a great Aspen stand.

Looking down into Toltec Gorge.

A little past Toltec Gorge, the rain gave way to some heavy fog. Ill be honest- a super awesome experience. There was just one other person out in the open car during this time, so was able to get some fun pics.

Into the thick fog.

At the old track maintenance town of Sublette. The train makes a short maintenance stop here on the way to Antonitio. If heading the other way to Osier/Chama, it’ll stop to take on water.