The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad will host its annual Santa’s Holiday Express excursion across two weekends in December. Voted the best scenic train ride in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice awards, the historic steam train operates passenger trips departing from depots in Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado.
Departures from the Chama depot are scheduled for December 5 and December 6 at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. each day. These departures run alongside the Village of Chama’s Christmas in the Mountains celebration, following a route that travels through local meadows and pine forests to Dalton.
The Antonito departures take place the following weekend on December 12 and December 13. Saturday rides leave at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m., while Sunday departures are scheduled for 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., carrying passengers through the high-desert landscape.
Onboard festivities include hot cocoa, cookies, candy canes, and refreshments for all passengers, along with visits from Santa and the railroad mascot, Cinder Bear. Children can share holiday wish lists and take photos during the trip.
For the 2026 season, the railroad introduced a new Deluxe Class option featuring seating arranged around tables for two or four. Deluxe tickets include one beverage ticket, with alcoholic options available for guests aged 21 and older, capped at two drinks per passenger. Coach tickets remain available for adults and children.
The railroad is also collecting non-perishable food items and unopened toys at the depots to support local communities during the holiday season. Passengers attending the excursions are advised to wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and bring warm layered clothing for changing mountain weather.
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