Northern
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
To visit the C&TSRR, head to the village of Chama, 107 miles north of Santa Fe off U.S. 84. The railway was constructed in 1880 as part of the Rio Grande's San Juan Extension to climb the high mountain passages to the silver mining district in southwestern Colorado. Today it operates as one of the United State's highest railroads, reaching an elevation of more than 10,000 feet as it chugs though the Cumbres Pass. It's also the longest narrow gauge railway. The rails are only three feet apart, as opposed to the standard gauge of more than four feet. And the scenery is spectacular. Once the track veers away from U.S. 84, there's little evidence of modern civilization, giving you the impression you're seeing the landscape just as it was in the Old West.
Ride the Rail Runner
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express also departs from the Santa Fe Depot, from which it travels south through Albuquerque to the end of its line in Belén. The Rail Runner began offering commuter train service in 2006 and completed its route along the heavily traveled central corridor in 2008. With a style reminiscent of the Super Chief trains that once toured the southwest, the trains boast double-decker seating where passengers can take in views of the Río Grande and Native American reservations while zipping along at a 21st-Century pace. Just hop aboard at one of the train's dozen stations (you'll buy your ticket on board) and get ready for adventure. Please note that while the train offers regular service, you should consult the schedule when planning your excursion.