About this city
Also known as: New Mexico's Railroad Town
Chama is an enchanting, high-altitude mountain village tucked away in Rio Arriba County, located just seven miles south of the Colorado border in northern New Mexico. Surrounded by the dense, pristine pine forests of the San Juan Mountains and located in the lush valley of the Rio Chama, this historic timber and railroad town feels worlds away from the state's typical arid deserts. Chama is the western terminus of the world-famous Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge steam train that takes travelers back into the late 19th century. Renowned for its heavy winter snowfalls, crisp mountain air, and rich outdoor recreation, Chama serves as a stellar sanctuary for trout fishermen, big-game hunters, and fall foliage seekers.
Location & Administrative
Transportation & Accessibility
Weather & Timing
Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Ride the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad narrow-gauge steam train, fly-fish for trout in the pristine Rio Chama, explore the alpine wilderness of Edward Sargent Wildlife Area, and view the massive Heron Lake and El Vado Lake state parks.
