3-Day Tracks Across Borders Itinerary
Enjoy a road less traveled and timeless experiences on Colorado’s only Scenic and Historic Byway that connects two states and two tribal nations. Follow this three-day itinerary to enjoy Byway highlights, history, and picturesque views.
Day 1: Explore Durango, Colorado
Start your Byway adventures at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum and step back in time traveling by a historic steam-powered locomotive.
For lunch, stop by Chimayo Stone Fired Kitchen, located in the heart of downtown Durango for made-from-scratch Southwestern and Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a modern American bistro setting. After lunch, enjoy an interactive science experience at the Powerhouse Science Center, ideal for all ages.
For dinner, experience Colorado ranching in a family-friendly environment at Durango’s James Ranch Grill. Step back in time for some evening entertainment at the historic Diamond Belle Saloon. Then call it a day and enjoy a good night’s sleep at the Strater Hotel, Durango’s historic landmark hotel.
Day 2: Ignacio, Colorado to Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Begin your Day 2 Byway adventures at Durango’s original meeting place – College Drive Cafe. Then start heading south on the Byway and stop by the Southern Ute Museum in Ignacio, Colorado to learn more about Colorado’s longest-continuous residents.
For lunch, visit The Rose Cafe in Ignacio and enjoy a cozy homestyle restaurant. After lunch, continue the drive towards Chimney Rock National Monument, which covers seven square miles and preserves 200 ancient homes and ceremonial buildings.
After your historical experience, head to Pagosa Springs for dinner at Kip’s Grill for spunky Mexican dishes and live music. Enjoy sunset views in geothermal hot springs on the banks of the San Juan River before you call it a night at The Springs Resort.
Day 3: Pagosa Springs, Colorado to Chama, New Mexico
Start Day 3 bright and early with coffee and delicious bakery items at Two Chicks & a Hippie in downtown Pagosa Springs. Then head to Navajo State Park to enjoy outdoor recreation, wildlife viewing, and bird watching.
Head to New Mexico for lunch and to enjoy some quick gaming at Wild Horse Casino & Hotel in Dulce, New Mexico. After lunch take a train ride of a lifetime at the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad.
For dinner, enjoy a slice of pizza and some new Western cuisine at Local in downtown Chama. Embrace the railway theme by staying at Chama Trails Motel, where you can dream about your next adventure on Tracks Across Borders Byway.
Download the Byway App
No Byway adventure is complete without using the free Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad app! Using the Byway tour, track your progress, access historical audio highlights, and receive GeoAlerts.