Cumbres & Toltec Rotary Action

Published Jun 5, 2020 By Robert Blue

Clearing the line with the OY rotary!

Supplying the power assist are the Denver & Rio Grand Western K-28 locomotives #487 & #484.

Some quick facts about #487 & 484

Builder – ALCO American Locomotive Company – 1923
configuration – 2-8-2
Drive diameter – 44 inches
locomotive weight – 140,000 lbs
Past operators: Denver & Rio Grande Western, White Pass & Yukon, and Durango & Silverton

The “O” was the designation given to all non revenue producing equipment when the line was part of the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad. At one time, the D&RGW railroad had 26 pieces of 3 foot narrow gauge equipment including wedges, flangers, and rotary plows.

The states of New Mexico and Colorado purchased the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad in 1970 and renamed it the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railraod.

Let us know if you have ever had a chance to take an excursion on the historic railroad. We would love to hear about your experience!