ANTONITO TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
A Geological Traverse: Antonito to Chama on the Cumbres & Toltec
An 11-hour special geology-focused run that pairs guided train stops and an Osier lunch with sweeping views of the Rio Grande Rift and San Juan volcanics.
A Geological Traverse: Antonito to Chama on the Cumbres & Toltec.
For geologists and curious travelers alike, this special departure from Antonito follows the Cumbres & Toltec track through a living geologic cross-section — from the Rio Grande Rift and San Juan Volcanic Field to Precambrian cores and glacial and Jurassic exposures — with expert guides, multiple stops at outcrops and rail cuts, and a midday lunch in Osier.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A rolling geologic field trip
This special train stops at many outcroppings and rail cuts along the right-of-way so passengers can mingle, photograph, and inspect rocks firsthand while guides interpret features from ancient Precambrian cores to recent glacial deposits.
Open-air vantage points and wildlife sightings
Open-air gondolas provide unobstructed vistas for photographing the Rio Grande Rift, volcanic landscapes and the surrounding high country, with opportunities to spot abundant local wildlife from the observation platforms.
Lunch and field time in Osier
The itinerary includes a scheduled lunch stop in Osier where the group breaks for a meal before reboarding to continue into the high country for afternoon stops and interpretation.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
Departing Antonito in the morning, the special Cumbres & Toltec geology train traverses a sculpted mountain corridor with docent-led interpretation, scheduled stops at geologic exposures and rail cuts, a lunch in Osier, afternoon resumption into the high country and an evening arrival in Chama followed by a bus transfer back to Antonito.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should plan accordingly.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Total experience runs approximately 11 hours from departure in Antonito to return.
Meet at 5234 US Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120 for the train departure.
Depart Antonito at 8:30 AM, lunch in Osier at 1:45 PM, reboard at 2:45 PM, arrive Chama at 6:30 PM then bus transfer back to Antonito with an approximate 7:30 PM arrival.
Dress in layers and bring a jacket for late summer and fall; sunscreen, a hat, sturdy closed-toe shoes, protective eyewear for the open gondola and insect repellent are recommended.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the geology train experience?
The full trip duration is 11 hours.
Where do I meet for departure?
Meet at 5234 US Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120 for the train departure.
Is lunch included?
The itinerary includes a lunch stop in Osier; the Geology Train description notes that the experience 'Includes lunch.'
Are there opportunities to get off the train?
Yes — the special train will stop at many outcroppings and rail cuts so passengers may disembark briefly to view and photograph geologic features.
Can I ride in an open-air car?
Open-air gondola cars (observation platforms) are available and provide unobstructed views and photo opportunities.
Are the coaches heated?
No — coaches are not heated.