3 Train rides to check out in New Mexico

Jun. 27—Known as the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico is full of breathtaking views everywhere you look.

A fun way to take in the views is by train.

Trains are no longer such a popular mode of transportation, but these three trains offer visitors beautiful sights and some even carry food, drinks and live entertainment for riders.

Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad

This narrow-gauge railroad, often referred to as "America's Most Authentic Steam Railroad," provides a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty and history of the American West. Currently, the rail is booking tickets for its holiday express trains, which are 45 minutes to an hour, starting out at Chama, offering riders hot cocoa, holiday cookies and candy canes served by Cinder Bear and Santa's elves.

Given the popularity of the railroad, it's advisable to make reservations in advance. Tickets can be booked online or by phone.

When purchasing your ride, take note of the three different tickets available.

Ticket options include the classic coach cars, the deluxe with extra room and individual seating and the parlor, which accommodates adults 21 and older only.

LOCATION: Chama and Antonito, CO

HOLIDAY DATES: Dec. 2 and 3 departing from Chama, Dec. 9 and 10, departing from Antonito

HOURS: 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m.

COST: Holiday:

$20 for adults

$10 for children 2 to 12

Standard rates can be found at cumbrestoltec.com/schedule

Sky Railway

Sky Railway is a tourist adventure train restarted from the Santa Fe Southern Railway, which stopped running years ago. Santa Fe residents, including author George R.R. Martin — known for his hit HBO series "Game of Thrones," and Bill Banowsky, a local film producer and entrepreneur, bought and renovated the train and the historic, 141-year-old railroad, which had its first run in December 2021.

The train has various adventures throughout the year, ranging from Flamenca to a murder mystery ride. Many of the rides features live music, food and drinks.

This year's holiday train's theme is Pablo the Dragon's Holiday Train, featuring live music, Mrs. Claus, cocoa, holiday sing-a-longs and the story of how Santa helped Pablito save Christmas in New Mexico.

LOCATION: There is a depot in Santa Fe and Lamy

DATES: Varies, but the train mostly operates Thursday-Sunday

COST: Varies by adventure

Rail Runner

The Rail Runner was launched in 2006 under the administration of the late former Gov. Bill Richardson, a Democrat.

Traveling over roughly 100 miles, this train runs from Belen up to Santa Fe.

While many people use it for a daily commute train, it is still a good train for tourists, allowing them to enjoy beautiful views through Pueblos in northern New Mexico.

LOCATION: Stations from Belen all the way to Santa Fe

COST: the cost is determined by how many zones the rider will pass through

Reduced fare is available for seniors 60+, students, youth 10 to 17-years-old, Medicare cardholders and people with disabilities.