ANTONITO TRAIN FIELD GUIDE
Steam, Summits and a State’s Birthday — the Centennial State Limited from Antonito
A commemorative, steam-powered journey departing Antonito that offers a choice of a 3.5-hour Big Horn loop or a longer full-line trip to Osier with a mountain lunch—an opportunity to travel Colorado’s 150-year story by rail.
Steam, Summits and a State’s Birthday — the Centennial State Limited from Antonito.
Board a coal-fired steam locomotive in historic Antonito and climb from the sagebrush flats of the San Luis Valley into sub‑alpine forests and high ridges. The Centennial State Limited is a commemorative excursion celebrating Colorado’s 150th anniversary; over a half‑day or a full excursion you’ll move through engineered curves and gorges on a National Historic Landmark line while onboard narration ties the landscape to the state’s history.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A 150th‑Anniversary Tribute Aboard a National Historic Landmark
This special commemorative service pairs onboard narration with the experience of riding historic equipment—an occasion to reflect on Colorado’s identity as you travel a railroad integral to the state’s development.
Authentic Coal‑Fired Steam Power
The excursion runs behind meticulously maintained coal-fired steam locomotives; the heat of the firebox, the whistle and the pounding rhythm of steam propulsion provide a direct sensory link to 19th‑century mountain railroading.
Engineering Feats and High‑Altitude Vistas
The line climbs dramatic terrain—crossing trestles and negotiating the spiral of Whiplash Curve to reach siding and viewpoints above 9,000 feet, where the landscape shifts from high desert to sub‑alpine forest.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
From check‑in at Antonito you’ll hear the familiar ‘‘All Aboard’’ and settle into Coach, Deluxe or Parlor accommodations as the train eases west. The first part of the run crosses the San Luis Valley and Hangman’s Trestle, then intensifies as the locomotive climbs through Whiplash Curve to high sidings such as Big Horn. Standard outings are a 3.5‑hour round trip that pause at Big Horn; the Saturday full‑line trip continues on to Osier for a scenic lunch before returning to Antonito in the late afternoon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and a couple of booking notes.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear layered clothing and bring a jacket—the mountains can bring sudden weather changes. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for stronger sun at altitude.
Wear sturdy, closed‑toe shoes for moving around the yard and cars. If you ride in an open gondola car, protective eyewear (sunglasses or safety glasses) is important to guard against cinders.
Bring insect repellent—mosquitoes can sometimes board the train. The operator also sells safety glasses on site for convenience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the difference between the Big Horn and Osier excursions?
There are two excursions: the shorter 3.5‑hour round‑trip from Antonito to the Big Horn loop (Friday and Sunday) that focuses on the climb and vistas, and the Saturday full‑line experience that continues to Osier Station for a scenic lunch and a longer duration.
What is included in the Colorado 150 celebration aboard this train?
As an official partner of Colorado 150 and America 250, these trips include commemorative onboard narration that highlights Colorado’s history from 1876 to 2026 while riding a historic railroad.
Is lunch provided on the train?
For the shorter Big Horn excursions, a concession car offers snacks and light refreshments; for the Saturday full‑line trip, a hearty, home‑cooked buffet lunch at Osier Station is included in the ticket price.
What should I wear for the trip?
Dress in layers and bring a light jacket or sweater—temperatures can drop as the train climbs from roughly 7,888 feet to over 9,000 feet. If you plan to ride in an open‑air gondola, bring sunglasses or other eye protection.
Are the trains accessible for passengers with disabilities?
Yes. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad provides a specially equipped car with a lift to accommodate wheelchairs; contact the operator at booking so seating can be arranged.
What is the best car class to book?
Options include Coach (vintage seating), Deluxe (extra legroom, tables, complimentary snacks and non‑alcoholic drinks) and Parlor (Victorian lounge‑style seating with attendant; Parlor is restricted to adults 21+).