Places to stop along the way
CUMBRES & TOLTEC SCENIC RAILROAD 500 Terrace Ave., Chama 5234 B Hwy. 285, Antonito, Colo. 888-286-2737 cumbrestoltec.com
The railroad offers daylong excursions through the mountains of New Mexico and Colorado. Trips begin in either Chama or Antonito and start at $100 for adults and $50 for children. Passengers can ride the train from one end to the other and take a motor coach back, or ride the train partway across the route and return aboard another train.
CHAMA STATION INN 423 Terrace Ave., Chama 888-726-8150 chamastationinn.com
A small hotel in downtown Chama, directly across the street from the train station. The inn was opened in 1926, and each room is furnished with vintage furniture and historical photos of the railroad. Rooms start at $95 a night.
CHAMA RIVER BEND LODGE 2625 N.M . 84, Chama 800-288-1371 chamariverbendlodge.com
On five acres along the Chama River, the lodge offers rooms as well as cabins. Rooms start at $89, cabins at $119.
1911 STEAM TRAIN HOTEL 402 Main St., Antonito, Colo. 719-298-8908 steamtrainhotel.com
The hotel is just a few minutes from the train station in downtown Antonito. It offers “marijuana-friendly” rooms — separated from the main hotel in order not to disturb “guests who are not as enthusiastic about a toke or two.” Rooms start at $119 a night.
BOXCAR CAFE 425 Terrace Ave., Chama 575-756-2706 facebook.com/boxcarcafechama
Across the street from the railroad, the cafe serves traditional Southwestern and American cuisine. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; entrees start at $7.
HIGH COUNTRY RESTAURANT AND SALOON 2289 N.M. 17, Chama 575-756-2384
The restaurant and bar offer casual dining with a wide variety of food options, including Southwestern and Italian. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner; entrees start at $9.
DOS HERMANAS STEAKHOUSE 435 Main St., Antonito, Colo. 719-376-5589
This downtown restaurant offers Southwestern cuisine, including green chile. Open for lunch and dinner; entrees start at $9.