Scenic Railroads of the American West
The Grand Canyon Railway and the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Jun 18, 2009
For train buffs, amateur historians, and casual travelers alike two unique rail journeys offer visitors to the American West the opportunity to combine the relaxing pace of a train trip through scenic country with an introduction to the stories, legends and lore of the land through which they’ll be traveling. The departure and terminus points for both of these journeys are conveniently located near other complimentary attractions, making both excursions easy to work into larger vacation itineraries.
In addition to giving their riders access to scenic vistas far off the main road (or any road for that matter), and offering passengers the chance to slow down and let someone else drive for a while, scenic rail journeys in the American West have a unique flavor and feel to them. The trip takes time, thought, and effort. It rewards travelers with a different perspective and a special connection to the land and the people.
From the Grand Canyon to Historic Route 66 and Williams, Arizona
Whether they are staying in the nearby town of Williams or not, for visitors to Grand Canyon National Park a trip on the Grand Canyon Railway offers a unique insight not only on the canyon and it’s surrounding environment, but also lets riders relax and enjoy the trip from the Grand Canyon to Williams, AZ, and learn a bit of the area’s history and culture.
The Grand Canyon Railway offers several classes of service from coach and first class to seating in the glassed in observation car and luxury parlor car. Strolling musicians and trained passenger service attendants keep visitors entertained and informed. A costumed lawman rides on every train to fend off bandits should they be foolish enough to attack the train.
The train departs in the morning from Williams, Arizona, arriving at the Grand Canyon just before noon. The return trip to Williams departs in the mid- to late afternoon, arriving in downtown Williams just before 6:00p.m. The train’s route takes passengers along some remote sections of the canyon and into the heart of the surrounding desert, winding through hills and valleys on its way into downtown Williams.
Located just off I-40, and a major stop along the classic Route 66, Williams, Arizona is considered to be the gateway to the Grand Canyon. Additionally, all of downtown Williams is on the National Register of Historic Places. Numerous drive-in cafes, roadhouses, and restored businesses conspire to make visitors to Williams feel as if they’ve stepped back in time to the heyday of Route 66.
Scenic Rail Travel in Northern New Mexico and Colorado
For visitors to northern New Mexico or southern Colorado, a ride on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers a chance to experience pristine backcountry scenery from the comfort of a passenger car, or from the deck of a breezy observation car as the train crawls through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The Cumbres & Toltec Railroad journey takes all day as the classic steam locomotive traces its 64-mile route through aspen, fir, and ponderosa pine studded canyons, valleys, and working cattle ranches between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado. Separate trains run east and west, meeting at the midway lunch depot in Osier, Colorado. The Cumbres & Toltec journey makes for a long day, but is incredibly peaceful and sedate as it travels through jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery.
For anyone with a desire to experience stunning western landscapes, and learn more about the real American West, all while letting someone else do the driving, a scenic rail journey is the way to go. Informed guides, luxury, comfort and adventure come withy the ticket.
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