CHAMA TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
All Aboard Chama: A Premium Bus‑then‑Train Journey Across the Colorado–New Mexico Border
A combined bus-and-train day trip operated by the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad that covers the full railroad line and includes a hot lunch at Osier Station and premium seating or open‑air gondola options.
All Aboard Chama: A Premium Bus‑then‑Train Journey Across the Colorado–New Mexico Border.
Embark on a day that stitches high‑country panoramas and historic railroading into a single loop: an hour bus connection to experience the full Cumbres & Toltec route, a scenic train ride punctuated by a hot lunch at Osier Station, and choices between premium enclosed comfort or an open‑air observation gondola guided by knowledgeable docents.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Complete Line with a Two‑Way Option
To travel the full railroad line you pair an hour bus ride with the train: select the bus first then ride the train back to your vehicle, or ride the train first then return by bus. All Aboard trips include a hot lunch served at scenic Osier Station.
Parlor Class: Limited, Modern Comfort
Parlor car is the newest premium class: individual window seats, modern comforts, morning pastry service, complimentary beverages throughout the day, an afternoon snack and a souvenir—capacity is limited to up to 20 passengers and Parlor accommodates adults only (21 years+).
Open‑Air Gondola for Unobstructed Sightlines
The gondola is an open‑air observation platform offering unobstructed views and excellent photo opportunities; friendly guides and docents point out landscape features and wildlife along the Colorado–New Mexico border.
What the day feels like
How the day feels
The day is a measured alternation of motion and stillness: an early morning bus move to complete the rail alignment, a midmorning train departure into increasingly wild terrain, a relaxed lunch at Osier where passengers disembark and stretch, then a second leg on the rails back toward Chama—framed either from the sheltered comfort of Parlor or the raw air of the gondola.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should choose another option.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pack layered clothing and, in late summer and fall, a jacket; sunscreen and a hat; sturdy, closed‑toe shoes for yard and train walking; protective eyewear (sunglasses or prescription glasses) if you will ride the open gondola; and insect repellent for occasional mosquitoes.
If you plan to spend time on the open gondola, bring protective eyewear to guard against cinders; sturdy shoes protect toes and ankles when moving around the train and yard.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the All Aboard Chama trip?
The total duration of the trip is 7 hours 50 minutes.
Where and when do we meet for departure?
The meeting location is 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520; the bus departs Chama at 8:30 am according to the itinerary.
Is lunch included?
Yes—All Aboard trips include a hot lunch served at scenic Osier Station.
Are there age or capacity restrictions for premium seating?
Parlor class accommodates adults only (21 years+) and is limited to up to 20 passengers.
Are the coaches heated?
Coaches are not heated.
What are my options for seating and viewing?
Choose premium Parlor class for individual window seats and modern comforts, or the open‑air gondola for unobstructed observation and photo opportunities accompanied by guides and docents.