[Formerly YB-2]

Be a whole lot better without all the romanticized BS from the geezer in the cowboy hat. What a crock. That said, the Cumbres & Toltec is easily the best of the narrow-gauge rides in the west. Much more varied terrain than the Durango ride to Silverton or the short, but interesting Georgetown or Cripple Creek rides. The shop in Chama, like the one in Durango, is very much worth the visit. At the one in Chama they are happy to let one get as close as one wants to the actual work and talk about what they are doing (rebuilding the firebox, pouring & scrapping new bearings, etc.). There is also a shop east of Denver in Byers(?) that builds new or rebuilds old steam engines. We're just back from a round-trip to Ft. Lauderdale (unfortunately, not a steam train). Got one of their smaller rooms, which includes all meals. The only way to travel. And, the food is good, if somewhat limited in selection.

Do wish one of the narrow-gauge lines would bring back a Gallopin' Goose Pierce-Arrow. That would also be a great way to ride either the Chama or Durango run.