Download the Byway App

Take a self-guided tour of Tracks Across Borders Byway using the free Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad app! Track your progress, access historical audio highlights, and receive GeoAlerts. 

Travel the Byway

Travel the 125-mile historic and scenic byway from Durango, Colorado to Chama, New Mexico.  Drive this backcountry byway to step back in time and see the little-changed western landscape and learn about the deep, rich history of this part of the old American West.

About the Byway

Located in southwest Colorado and northern New Mexico, the scenic and historic byway traces the historic narrow-gauge right-of-way of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad (D&RG). The Tracks Across Borders Byway was officially recognized in both Colorado & New Mexico as a historic and scenic byway in 2015.  It was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2016 and is registered as a charity in both Colorado & New Mexico.

Points of Interest on the Byway

Along the Tracks Across Borders Byway, visitors can learn more about the railways by taking two historic and scenic train rides, dive deep into the history and culture of the Ute people, explore a national monument and Colorado’s second-largest lake, and stop for entertainment and gaming at two casinos. The adventure options are truly endless.

When to Visit the Byway

Due to road conditions and winter business closures, the Byway is best experienced from spring through fall. The route between Juanita and Dulce is not currently passable in winter or wet weather. A 4 x 4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended at all times for this portion of the route.

During the spring season, visitors can enjoy bird migration, wildflowers, and rivers flowing at their highest levels. During the summer, Byway visitors will enjoy ideal weather, the most local business options, and the most railway ticket availability from early May to late August. During the fall season, visitors will enjoy sensational fall colors and the least amount of fellow travelers.