Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad modified season

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A frosted view from Cumbres Pass in Southwestern Colorado. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad that showcases such beautiful scenery will launch an abridged season on June 13th. (Courier photo by Stephen Jiron).

CHAMA, NM and ANTONITO, CO — The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (C&TSRR) will launch its 2020 season on Saturday, June 13 with its first train of the season departing from Chama, NM. Originally, the C&TSRR’s opening date was scheduled for Memorial Day weekend but the railroad delayed the opening and modified its schedule to align with restrictions surrounding COVID-19.

The historic steam railroad, twice voted North America’s most scenic train by the readers of USA Today, will follow a modified schedule:

• From June 13 – September 11, one train a day will leave from either Antonito, CO or Chama, NM and stop at historic Osier, CO for a delicious lunch, included in the ticket price before returning to the station the train originated from.

• Trains will leave from Chama to Osier then return to Chama on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Trains will leave from Antonito to Osier then return to Antonito on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. There will be no train on Monday and no half-day rides.

• From September 12 – October 18, two trains will depart daily and run between Antonito and Chama with a lunch stop at Osier Station, following the traditional C&TSRR schedule.

• If you need to cancel your reservation this season, you will get a full refund if you cancel at least 48 hours prior to your trip.

• The 2020 schedule is subject to change and passengers will be required to follow all current federal and state safety precautions. Passengers are encouraged to check the website for the most up-todate information.

“People were riding this railroad before the Statue of Liberty was built or the first National Park was opened,” noted John Bush, president/CEO of the C&TSRR. This railroad has steamed through our country’s great history, in both challenging and prosperous times. We are grateful to continue our tradition of showcasing the untamed beauty of the Rocky Mountain West as it has been for centuries. These modifications were made to safeguard our passengers’ safety and the viability of the railroad during these unprecedented times. ”

2020 Special Departures

The C&TSRR will also offer a limited number of special departures in 2020. Reservations are strongly encouraged, and departures are subject to change. Special departures include:

• 4th of July Dinner Train, leaves Chama at 5 p.m., dinner on Cumbres Pass, and a fireworks show, before returning to Chama at 10 p.m. There will be entertainment and a Fourth of July costume contest.

• Wildflower/Botany Train, August 2, 2020. This once-a-year special ride features acclaimed botanists who will discuss the native wildflowers and plants along the route.

• Dark Sky Dinner Train with Flamenco Guitar, August 15, 2020. Leaves Chama at 5 p.m., dinner on Cumbres Pass, with Flamenco guitar and festive attire encouraged. The train returns to Chama under a sky full of starts and a Dark Sky.

• Sunset Dinner Train & Speakeasy, September 19, 2020. Leaves Chama at 5 p.m., dinner on Cumbres Pass with Speakeasy musicians and Roaring 20s attire encouraged. The train returns to Chama by 9 p.m. Note that the sold out Fireman & Engineering Schools will operate as originally scheduled.

Please check the website for up to the minute changes. Historic Re-Launch of the #168 Postponed The first official appearance of historic engine No. 168 has been postponed. The #168, one of only two locomotives of its class left in the world, has been completely restored to its original 1883 brilliance and was slated to return on Opening Day in 2020. Plans for the historic reintroduction of the storied #168 have been placed on hold. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad will announce a new launch date as soon as possible.

Advance Reservations Recommended

With the abbreviated schedule, many rides on the C&TSRR, especially September fall color departures, will sell out well in advance. With historic equipment, it is not always possible to add additional cars to meet demand.

To ensure that there are seats on the dates you want to ride, the railroad advises to please make reservations in advance at www. cumbrestoltec.com For complete information, visit: cumbrestoltec.com or call 1-888-286-2737.