Chama is one historic mountain town in New Mexico that is often overlooked when searching for the perfect day trip destination or an overnight stay location. This small town is home to just over 1,000 individuals and has scenery that is difficult to compare. While Chama is a wonderful place to visit all year long, the fall is when it truly shines. Believe us, you won’t want to miss the sights that emerge during the autumn months in this beautiful area.
Chama, New Mexico, is located in the Southern Rockies and is near the New Mexico and Colorado state line. This small town is certainly tucked away in the mountains and sits approximately 7,860 feet above sea level.
Estevan Trujillo/500px Via Getty Images
Chama’s history begins with the railroad.
Jeff Vanuga / Photo courtesy of USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. / Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons In 1880, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad began construction on a route that traveled through the Chama area. In 1881, various buildings and facilities were established for the railroad and the town began to grow. Eventually, people interested in mining, lumber, and the railroad began moving into the area. This brought people to Chama with a variety of backgrounds, cultures, talents, etc.
Today, as you walk throughout town, you’ll see all types of people. The slow pace and the quiet lifestyle make this a wonderful place to live for many individuals.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
One of the best ways to experience Chama and the surrounding area, particularly during the fall months, is to take a ride on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad/Facebook
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad/Facebook These train rides are well-known throughout the Land of Enchantment and feature historic trains with routes that begin in either Chama or Antonito, Colorado. You can learn more about this scenic railroad in New Mexico here.
You can also experience the stunning fall views at the Rio Chama Valley Overlook that sits just outside of town. The river, cottonwood trees, and fall foliage create an image that looks like a painting.
Larry Lamsa/Flickr This overlook is also known as the Roadside viewpoint. You can find it on this Google Map.
Make sure you plan a stop at the Edward Sargeant Wildlife Management Area. This is a great place to enjoy some peace and quiet, fresh air, and beautiful hiking trails.
Larry Robison/Google
When you are hungry, stop by Fina’s Diner. This family-owned diner serves breakfast and lunch and no matter what you order, you won’t regret it.
Kip/Google
Fina’s Diner/Facebook You can learn more about this diner and its menu and hours here.
Stay for a while to truly enjoy this small mountain town in Idaho. You can spend the night at the Chama River Bend Lodge.
Management/TripAdvisor This lodge features hotel-style rooms and cabins. It is also near many of the popular and must-visit attractions in this historic mountain town in New Mexico.
Have you ever spent time in Chama during the fall months? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments. We’d also love to view your photos!
Estevan Trujillo/500px Via Getty Images
Jeff Vanuga / Photo courtesy of USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. / Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons
In 1880, the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad began construction on a route that traveled through the Chama area. In 1881, various buildings and facilities were established for the railroad and the town began to grow. Eventually, people interested in mining, lumber, and the railroad began moving into the area. This brought people to Chama with a variety of backgrounds, cultures, talents, etc.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad/Facebook
These train rides are well-known throughout the Land of Enchantment and feature historic trains with routes that begin in either Chama or Antonito, Colorado. You can learn more about this scenic railroad in New Mexico here.
Larry Lamsa/Flickr
This overlook is also known as the Roadside viewpoint. You can find it on this Google Map.
Larry Robison/Google
Kip/Google
Fina’s Diner/Facebook
You can learn more about this diner and its menu and hours here.
Management/TripAdvisor
This lodge features hotel-style rooms and cabins. It is also near many of the popular and must-visit attractions in this historic mountain town in New Mexico.
If you want to view even more beautiful places in New Mexico during the fall, head on this road trip. You can start or end this road trip in Chama.
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Address: Chama, NM 87520, USA
