Northern New Mexico’s Cumbres & Toltec Scenic railroad is still chugging along. But, the little economic engine of Chama has a big hill to climb since losing its Lobato Trestle. The wooden ties there burned in a fire of undetermined origin right near the beginning of the tourist season. The trestle may have to be replaced.

Meanwhile, railroad president Elmer Salazar wants prospective passengers to know that the train is going over a rough spot, but it’s still operating. Cumbres has switched its itineraries around so you can enjoy a historic steel rail experience, without crossing the out-of-service trestle.

Ridership is down, though, and all around Chama, that’s a big deal because the train is the town’s main tourist attraction. Other businesses count on Cumbres to get passengers to the train on time. Area businesses are contributing to a fund to replace the burned-out trestle. The railroad is also offering discounts for some of its most popular trips for this, its 40th anniversary season.