Cumbres & Toltec RR Reaches 10,000 Foot Elevation

Denver and Rio Grande Western K-36 #484 delights railfans!

This clip starts out showing the Mikado class K-36 D&R GW #484 coming around the bend in the high country of the Cumbres And Toltec Scenic Railroad. On an excursion from Colorado to Chama, New Mexico, the Mikado K-36 is shown taking on water before her climb up to the 10,000 foot elevation Cumbres Pass.

The fall colors of New Mexico make a fantastic backdrop to the this heritage railroad!

Built in 1880 to support mining operations in the area, the Cumbres And Toltec Scenic Railroad covers 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado. 3 foot narrow gauge railroad crosses over the Colorado and New Mexico borders 11 times before reaching the Cumbres Pass summit.

Rio Grande’s Class K-36 Mikado #484:

• configuration: 2-8-2
• Builder: Baldwin Locomotive Works 1925
• Locomotive weight: 187,100 lbs
• Tractive effort: 36,200 lbf

Let us know if you have ever had a chance to take this excursion on the Cumbres And Toltec Scenic Railroad! We would love to hear your comments!