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Are you planning to RV with kids? In order to do so, you’ll need to make sure everyone can travel safely in your RV or in your tow vehicle. This means getting some car seats. Before making a purchase or inviting the grandkids along, get to know what an RV must have for you to be able to travel safely with car seats. We’ll also share some tips for RVing with booster seats for older kids.

What Should an RV Have for Car Seats and Boosters?

For those of you who are grandparents, aunts, and uncles, you might be surprised at how much car seat laws have changed since your time as a parent or child.

Kids are required to ride in car seats longer and boosters into the tween years. You may remember the days when kids stopped riding in any type of car seat as soon as they began kindergarten. Now, according to best practice, a child may grow out of needing a car seat or booster somewhere between the ages of 10 and 12.

By law, some states leave it up to the parent to make the call once a child has reached eight years of age. Be sure to check the law in the states (or provinces) you’ll be traveling in.

So, now that you know how long you might need to RV with a car seat or booster, the next step is knowing what to look for. First, check your car seat’s manual.

RVs must have everything any regular passenger vehicle (cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, etc.) needs in order to properly install a car seat. Most states in the U.S. and provinces in Canada require proper use of “child restraints” by law. This means that, by law, child car seats must be installed according to the car seat manufacturer’s instructions.

As you’re RV shopping or evaluating your own RV, keep an eye out for the following when looking at motorized RVs.

Front-Facing Seats

If you’re traveling with kids that need a car seat or booster, you’ll need front-facing seats. You might see seat belts on seats in the RV living area like in dinettes and sofas, but, unfortunately, these seats are often rear or side facing. Rear and side-facing seats will not work, especially if they’re in slide outs.

LATCH or Top Tether Anchor for Car Seats

If the child you’re traveling with hasn’t yet met the milestones for a booster, you’re going to need to use a forward-facing (or rear-facing for infants) car seat. Forward-facing car seats must be installed either using the LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system, or a three-point seat belt with top tether anchor.

A vehicle with the LATCH system will have lower metal anchors where the seat cushions meet. LATCH allows a car seat to be secured without using a seat belt. Whether using LATCH or the seatbelt to secure the car seat, you’ll need a top tether anchor. You’ll find tether anchors behind seats, on the floor, ceiling, or back panel of the seat.

For booster seats, all you need is a three-point seat belt. If all an RV has is (a structurally sound) lap belt, you could look into a RideSafer Travel Vest. The Travel Vest can be an alternative to the booster. It can also serve as an alternative to a forward-facing car seat. Let’s look a little more closely at seat belts.

Real Seat Belts

When you find seat belts on dinettes and other areas outside the cab, make sure that they are “real” seat belts. A “real” seat belt is designed to meet crash standards.

First, make sure the seat belts lock. Seat belts must lock in to properly secure a booster or car seat. Then, check to see what the seat belt is anchored to. If it’s a “real” seat belt it will be anchored to metal, not wood. Also, check that the seat belt is anchored to the metal frame of the vehicle, not floor boards.

If the belts you see in the RV, don’t meet the above, they may be intended for holding items in place, and will definitely not work for securing your car seat or booster. In the case of older children and adults, they’re better than nothing, but if they are secured to wood, they are not considered structurally sound. Which means they can come apart or aren’t strong enough.

Generally, you’re also going to want to look for three-point seat belts, also known as shoulder-lap belts. as like we mentioned, the RideSafer Travel Vest will work with a structurally sound lap belt.

Motorized vs. Towable RVs and Car Seats

There are differences you need to know about when it comes to using car seats in motorized RVs versus towable RVs. Here’s a quick look at the differences.

Motorized RVs

Class B and Class C cabs are not built out by RV manufacturers, but rather by the vehicle manufacturers. That being the case, the cab area of Class B and Class C RVs must meet the same safety standard as the front of any other passenger vehicle.

Class A motorhomes are in a different weight class and are built out differently. They are not required to adhere to the same safety standards, even in the cab area.

Class As and Class Cs often have slides. Slides make the RV less structurally sound than regular vehicles and than RVs without slides. This could make the passenger seat the safest place to place a car seat. Keep in mind, that’s a compromise because, it’s considered safest to always place children in the back seat. Make sure to follow your car seat and your RV’s recommendations in both products’ owner’s manual.

When it comes to motorized RVs, you might find that a Class B comes closest to checking off all the boxes, if everyone will be traveling in the RV.

Towable RVs

In the case of a towable RV, like a fifth-wheel or travel trailer, everyone will be riding in the regular passenger vehicle or truck used to pull it. All cars, trucks, and vans are required to meet federal crash safety standards. And, the LATCH system has been required in all regular vehicles since 2002.

An undeniable benefit of a towable RV is that everyone rides together in their regular vehicle, meaning there’s no change at all to your regular car seat routine.

Many states have laws saying passengers can ride in towable RVs. However, it’s not recommended, and we would highly suggest that any children ride in your tow vehicle and not in the RV.

What Are Your Options?

Each situation is unique. Your best option will depend on your exact situation and preference.

You have two options for towable RVs that require no changes to your car seat routine:

1. Choose a towable RV. Everyone rides together and car seats and boosters remain in a regular vehicle meeting all standards.
2. Choose any RV type you like, but drive children in a regular vehicle separately. Many RVers tow a vehicle behind their motorized RV for daily driving. Skip the flat towing or the dolly; and have a second driver drive the regular vehicle and the kids to your destinations.

If you’re traveling in a motorized RV, you also have some options available depending on your needs, preferences, and state laws:

1. Choose an RV that meets car seat manufacturer installation requirements.
2. Choose an RV that meets requirements for a travel vest (for children 30 lbs.+) instead of using a car seat or booster.
3. If the airbag can be turned off, you might be able to place the car seat in the front passenger seat of a Class B or Class C. This is a compromise, but the seat is required to meet federal safety standards. Be sure to check both your car seat owner’s manual and your RV owner’s manual before doing so.
4. If you already have a motorhome, check your local fire, police, or hospital for help from certified car seat technicians. You will often need an appointment, but they can help you with proper installation.

Tips for RVing With All Kids

Whether traveling with kids needing car seats and boosters or those who’ve outgrown them, remember everyone should be seated while a motorhome is being driven. Any available seat belt is better than none. Also, remember that drawers and cabinets can fly open on sharp turns and along the drive.

Do not place heavy items like cans and books in upper cabinets. Be mindful of where you store sharp or pointy utensils. These items will come spilling out, and can hit passengers riding in the rear of the RV. Kids strapped in car seats won’t be able to duck out of the way. Just be mindful of this when you pack your RV up for your trip and you’ll be good to go.

RV road trips make for memorable family vacations. But, the reality of traveling with kids in an RV can catch us by surprise. Now you’re ready to make an informed decision on the best option for your family RV travels.

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What has been your experience with family RV travel? Leave a comment below!

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One of the most popular activities for RV travelers is hiking. What better way to get out and enjoy nature than to hit the trails? To ensure a safe and fun time, be sure to take precautions against some of the dangers of summer hiking.

What kind of dangers are out there? They can include extreme heat and sudden thunderstorms, which bring the risk of flash floods and lightning.

Having the proper gear, paying close attention to your surroundings, pacing yourself, and staying hydrated will go a long way towards keeping the entire family safe and happy on your next hike. Here are some tips and tricks for staying safe while hiking this summer.

Be Aware of the Weather

Before you head our check the weather forecast. Even better, talk with park rangers to get a better understanding of local weather dangers from high temperatures to flash floods.

Plan for the worst and educate yourself about what to do in case of lightning. The best approach is to try to avoid it. If you’re on the trail and see a storm approaching, descend from ridges, peaks, and elevated areas. If you get caught in a thunderstorm, seek protection in a valley or depression in the terrain.

Always avoid isolated trees or other tall objects. For more information, see the NOAA Lightening Safety website.

Understand the Terrain

Before you head out on the trail, try to do a little research to determine if the hike will be in full sun or if you can expect some shade along the way. Get a sense for where the hardest parts of the hike will be and try to set a reasonable pace for yourself.

Don’t forget, summer provides a great opportunity to explore trails at a higher elevation where it’s naturally cooler. Most importantly, no matter where you hike, stop along the way to rest, let your body cool, and enjoy the view.

Get an Early Start

 

While you might be tempted to sleep in on your summer vacation, hiking earlier in the day reduces your chances of heat exhaustion. In mountainous areas, thunderstorms typically develop in the early afternoon, so hiking early in the day and coming down the mountain by noon is a good idea.

However, there is one thing you should keep in mind if you decide to start early. If the trail is grassy, it will likely be wet with dew. Since few things are more uncomfortable than having wet feet during a hike, you might want to pack an extra pair of dry socks or wear water-resistant hiking shoes.

Dress for the Weather

While tank tops and flip flops are summer favorites, they aren’t a good choice for the trails. Even in the warmest weather, covering bare skin is the best tip to avoid sunburn, bug bites, and poison ivy.

You won’t regret investing in moisture-wicking long sleeve shirts and pants to protect yourself from the elements. Please don’t forget the hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for any exposed skin.

Bring (and Drink) Plenty of Water

Hiking in hot weather depletes your body of liquids. To make matters worse, the more dehydrated you become, the less efficient your body is at cooling itself down. Be aware that children generate more heat than adults, but they also sweat less increasing their chance of dehydration.

Start your hike hydrated and continue to replace fluids throughout. Drink before feeling thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty, you are already behind in fluid replacement. As a general rule, drink a cup every half hour. Depending on the length and intensity of your hike, you may want to bring along a sports drink. They are specially formulated to help replace fluid and electrolytes lost through sweat.

Know how to Recognize Heat Exhaustion

One of the biggest dangers while hiking in the summer is heat exhaustion. By following all the tips up to this point, you’ve gone a long way towards prevention. However, it is still important to know the early signs of for heat exhaustion, heatstroke and even hyponatremia so that you can protect yourself and any others who may be hiking with you.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heat exhaustion is identifiable by heavy sweating, clammy skin, rapid pulse, nausea, muscle cramps, headache, and fainting. If these are present, stop hiking immediately. Focus on moving to shade, cooling down with wet cloths, and slowly sipping water. Learn more about heat-related illnesses here.

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We hope these tips will help you have a fun & safe hiking adventure this summer!

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Sam and Kelsey talk RV trends in this camping conversations episode! Hear the latest on updates in the RV industry, such as lighter RV interiors and the growing popularity of small RVs. Plus, hear about Instagram worthy camping trips, and Kelsey’s experience growing up in different types of RVs. They even share each of their dream RV models and why certain RVs are better than others, depending on your camping style.

Some highlights from this episode:

• 1:00 – Lighter interiors in RVs
• 4:30 – Smaller RV models gain popularity
• 14:30 – Instagram worthy RVing
• 17:15 – Kelsey’s experience growing up in different RVs
• 21:00 – Dream RV models

Lighter interiors in RVs

This trend has started to show up a lot lately in new RV models. It seems that the days of dark wood interiors are on the way out. Perhaps it’s because lighter wood makes the interior feel more spacious, or maybe customers just like it better? Tune in to hear Sam and Kelsey’s views on this trend.

Smaller RV models gain popularity

Class B and other small RVs and vans have been popular in Europe for a while, but now the trend is catching on in the U.S. Is it because of the tiny home and minimalism movement, the efficiency, or do people just think they are adorable? Hear Sam and Kelsey’s thoughts on why these RVs are so popular right now. Kelsey is even in the market for a small RV. Will she pick a Class B, a teardrop, an A-liner, or something else entirely?

Instagram worthy RVing

There is a huge movement towards Instagram worthy camping experiences, whether it is a glamping themed campground with vintage trailers or a renovated RV interior. Hear Sam and Kelsey’s thoughts on how this trend is changing the RV and camping industry.

** Subscribe to Stories from the Road on iTunes, Spotify, or Google Play **

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The last thing anyone wants to think about when planning their next RV vacation is the possibility of fire. However, a little planning and prevention can go a long way towards ensuring you have a safe and trouble-free holiday. It’s worth it, so take the time to ensure you’re protected.

There are several different causes of fire. I’ll cover the most common and provide a few tips for prevention.

On the Road

According to FEMA, Approximately one in eight fires responded to by fire departments across the nation is a highway vehicle fire. This figure includes recreational vehicles. After accidents, mechanical failure in one of the following areas contributed to most of these fires: engine, running gear, or wheel area of the vehicle.

 

The most important prevention for mechanical fire is to maintain your RV or tow vehicle’s electrical and mechanical systems. Here are a few critical things you should check before each trip to reduce your chances of a fire while traveling:

• Ensure all hoses are tight and there are no cracks to avoid flammable liquids igniting in the engine area.
• Keep the engine compartment clean of excess grease and dirt that increases the chances of fire under the hood.
• Ensure there is adequate insulation around electrical wiring
• Overheated tires and brakes can also cause fires.
• Check for proper inflation of all tires, and even better use a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
• Refer to your vehicle’s service logs to verify you’re up to date on all service items including brake inspections and axle maintenance.
• Do not drive with the propane on. It can increase the danger if an accident or other mechanical fire occurs.

It is equally important to know what to do in case a fire occurs while you’re driving to your destination.

• First, get yourself and all passengers a safe distance away from the vehicle and traffic on the roadway.
• Don’t attempt to get back into the RV or tow vehicle to retrieve personal property.
• Report the fire using 911 or other emergency telephone number.
• If you have a fire extinguisher approved for Class B and Class C fires handy, only use it at a safe distance from the vehicle. Do not open the hood to access a fire under it, as air could cause the fire to enlarge.

In the Kitchen

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the most common area for RV fires to start is the kitchen. Most cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

 

When cooking in a small space like an RV, it is especially important to remain vigilant anytime you are cooking. Here are a few tips to reduce the risk of a kitchen fire in the RV:

• Remain in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• When cooking with oil, be especially vigilant. Heat the oil slowly and add food gently so the oil does not splatter.
• Always keep a lid handy to place over the pan in case of fire.
• If you are baking or roasting food in the oven, use a timer and stay close by to check it regularly.
• Make sure there to keep anything flammable (towels, oven mitts, food packaging, wooden utensils, etc.) away from your stovetop.

If you have a cooking fire:

• Never use water on a grease fire.
• If oil ignites in a pan, smother the fire with the lid. Leave the lid on until it has completely cooled.
• Turn off the heat source immediately.
• If the fire cannot be immediately extinguished, just get out! Your life is more important than your belongings. Be sure to close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Turn off the propane to your RV.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number from a safe distance outside the RV.

At The Campground

One of the things we love best about camping is roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around the campfire. Unfortunately, campfires can be dangerous if not managed properly. You need to ensure that everyone stays safe around open flames. Here are some tips:

 

• Make sure open fires are allowed and be aware of the local fire danger level.
• Build campfires in designated fire rings. If allowed to build your own fire pit, dig a depression in the center of a cleared area and place a ring of rocks around it.
• Don’t build a fire too large and always check for overhanging limbs.
• Never use an accelerant such as gasoline or lighter fluid to start a campfire.
• Always keep a hose, a bucket of water, or dirt and shovel nearby to extinguish the fire.
• Never leave a campfire unattended and always supervise children closely.
• To extinguish a campfire, pour a bucket of water over it while completely stirring and wetting all the ashes.  Turn wood over and wet all sides.

One of the great thing about RV vacations is enjoying the great outdoors. Some of the best camping meals are made over the grill.

 

Consider the following if you choose to cook outdoors on your RV vacation:

• Place the grill a safe distance from the RV awning and away from overhanging branches.
• Never add charcoal starter fluid to coals or kindling that has already been ignited.

• Make sure there to keep anything flammable (towels, oven mitts, food packaging, wooden utensils, etc.) away from the grill.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Thoroughly extinguish the fire and make sure the area is cool to the touch before leaving.

Be Prepared

The most important thing you can do to protect you and your family in the event of a fire is to be prepared in advance. Before you leave on your next camping trip, make sure to:

• Regularly check your smoke, propane, and carbon monoxide detectors switching out the batteries every six months.
• Develop and practice a plan that includes at least two escape routes from the RV.
• Be sure everyone knows how to open hatches and emergency exits.
• Keep multiple fire extinguishers in your RV and tow vehicle (if applicable) in case you encounter any small fires that you can put out quickly.
• Remind everyone that their lives are more important than your belongings. Evacuating to a safe place should always be the first priority.

Although we hope it never happens, we should always be prepared for the worst. By being diligent, properly maintaining our RVs, and practicing cooking safety we can reduce the risk. Since we can’t completely eliminate it, planning ahead and practicing evacuation can ensure the whole family stays safe.

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Do you have any questions or concerns? Leave a comment below!

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At first glance, Guadalupe Mountains National Park might appear desolate and remote, but scratch the surface here and visitors find a region that reaches from the desert floor to the highest mountain in Texas. In the towering cliffs of El Capitan lie the remnants of an ancient marine fossil reef, the largest example in the world.

Carved out of these imposing mountains sits an interior of sheer-sided canyons, white gypsum sand dunes and habitat so sweeping in its diversity that over 1,000 plant species and a variety of 60 mammal groups live here. A peek into the park will overwhelm travelers with its grandeur and humble existence as they realize it’s been hiding in plain sight all along!

History of Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The first inhabitants of the Guadalupe Mountains were hunter-gatherers that followed game into the area about 10,000 years ago. Since then the region has been influenced by the Spanish, who although they did not explore the mountain range, forever changed the area by bringing horses with them.

Mescalero Apaches, like those that came before, tracked game through the Chihuahua Desert and utilized various parts of the prolific agave plants found there. In fact, today visitors might come across an agave roasting pit within the park.

The Apache thrived in the Guadalupe Mountains for a time, as it appeared inhospitable to others. After the Civil War, Americans began moving west and the Butterfield Overland Mail was established to transport passengers and mail from back east to San Francisco. Its trail ran through the park region. Cavalry troops, including Buffalo Soldiers, were assigned to protect the line and in doing so, destroyed two Apache camps. Eventually what was left of the tribe were driven out of the area and to a reservation.

One of the first settlers to make a permanent home was rancher, Felix McKittrick, who came in the 1870s. By the 1920s Wallace Pratt arrived. A geologist for what would later become Exxon Oil, Pratt fell in love with the McKittrick Canyon and built two homes there. In 1960, Pratt donated his 6,000-acre parcel to the National Park Service and with the purchase of another 80,000 acres, the road was paved for Guadalupe Mountains National Park to be created in 1972.

Why Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Your RV?

The park has two campgrounds that accept smaller RVs and the area is large enough to spend several days exploring. Rather than driving two to three hours back to an RV park or motel in the city every evening, most travelers opt to boondock in their motorhomes or trailers. Having your home with you provides a great platform from which to venture out into the wilderness.

Places to Go

There are plenty of fantastic places to go in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Here are some spots you have to check out.

Dog Canyon

A remote forested canyon on the north end of the park, Dog Canyon lies at the base of steep cliff walls. It’s a perfect place for hiking and camping in solitude.

McKittrick Canyon

One of the most visited locations in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, this canyon is splendid in the months of October and November, when autumn colors are at their peak. This is a day use only destination.

Williams Ranch

A high clearance vehicle is needed to access Williams Ranch, and travelers must check out a gate key at Pine Springs Visitor Center to traverse this rugged road for 15.6 miles. The ranch house backs up to Bone Canyon.

Frijole Ranch

This old ranch on the edge of the Guadalupe Mountains is surrounded by 6 springs, a virtual oasis in the desert. The ranch headquarters building houses the Frijole Ranch Historic Museum, telling the human story of the region from Native Americans to the formation of the national park.

Salt Basin Dunes

Gypsum has eroded into sand dunes here at the Salt Basin Dunes, in some places up to 40 feet tall. The wind is the sculptor and can make the area inhospitable on occasion, and the dunes are a designated day use area, so no camping is allowed.

Things to Do

There’s more than just places to go in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park. There are plenty of fun things to do, too. Here are some of the best!

Hiking

The most popular activity in the park is hiking, as there are miles and miles of trails to follow. Here are just a few samples:

• Indian Meadow Nature Trail – 0.6 miles
• Marcus Overlook – 4.5 miles
• Lost Peak Trail – 6.4 miles
• McKittrick Canyon Nature Trail – 0.9 miles
• Pratt Cabin Trail – 4.8 miles
• The Grotto – 6.8 miles
• Permian Reef Trail – 8.4 miles
• Devil’s Hall Trail – 3.8 miles
• Guadalupe Peak Trail – 8.5 miles

Backpacking

If you enjoy hiking but want to stay in the backcountry longer, take a look at the packing information, trails, and campsites on the park’s backpacking page.

Camping

The park has two campgrounds, one at Pine Springs and the other at Dog Canyon. Both have flush toilets and sinks, but no showers and no hookups. There are numerous backcountry tent sites along backpacking trails, as well, which can be found here.

Wildlife Viewing

The diversity of ecosystems within Guadalupe Mountains National Park offer habitat for a variety of animals like mule deer, coyotes, mountain lions and javelinas. During warmer temperatures, reptiles like diamondback rattlesnakes and prairie lizards will soak up the sun. Best viewing is close to water sources like Smith Springs, Manzanita Spring and McKittrick Canyon

Horseback Riding

Bring your own horses and ride on open stock trails at the park. There are corrals at Frijole Ranch and Dog Canyon and all horse trails begin and end at these locations. No riding off trail is allowed.

Birdwatching

The Guadalupe Mountains are an exceptional place to go birding. One of the best places to start is at Frijole Ranch, where water is in abundance and so are trees with shade! You’ll see everything from a roadrunner to mountain bluebirds, tanagers, and Cooper’s hawks throughout the park.

When to Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park

With a location in the Chihuahua Desert, this park hits temperatures in excess of 100 degrees in summer. So most visitors enjoy the cooler season for exploration of the desert floor. However, mountain peaks are much more temperate for hikers, and those looking for fall colors won’t be disappointed by coming to the Guadalupe Mountains in October and November.

Where RVers Can Stay

There are two campgrounds within the park that have room for smaller RVs and each campground has flush toilets and sinks.  However, there are no RV hookups or showers. The campgrounds are located at Pine Springs and in Dog Canyon. If you desire hook-ups, here are a few RV parks within driving distance:

• White’s City RV Park in White’s City, NM
• Camp Washington Ranch in Carlsbad, NM

Getting to and Around Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Getting to the National Park is not difficult, but the location is a bit remote. The park is located 110 miles east of El Paso, Texas or 56 miles southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico in the Chihuahua Desert on US Highways 62/180 or via New Mexico State Road 137.

Once there, roads through the park go only to the following: Pine Springs Visitor Center and campground, McKittrick Canyon Contact Station, Frijole Ranch, Salt Basin Dunes area, Williams Ranch (high clearance vehicles required), and the park trailheads, as most visitors come here to hike and backpack.

Hidden Treasures

Guadalupe Mountains National Park holds a great attraction for explorers, those willing to venture into the unknown and leave with newfound secrets. Secret trails. Secret swimming holes. Secret canyons. While many travelers bypass it on the way to other more ostentatious parks and monuments, this park is willing to wait for more curious visitors to discover its hidden treasures.

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Have you ever been to the Guadalupe Mountains National Park? Leave a comment below.

 

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Many times camping trips involve exploring new territory and discovering enticing attractions along the way. Passenger tour trains have that magnetic appeal for many RVers, providing a novel way to see hidden countryside not normally viewed from the road. Railroad passengers learn about local history, culture and the many colorful characters from the communities visited.

Camping World wants to make sure you don’t miss the departing whistle, so we have created a series entitled RVing the Rails. You will find the most popular excursion trains to ride in each state, complete with any specialty trains they might offer.

Today we will start with the most popular trains in Colorado:

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

One of the most popular trains in the Rockies, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad winds its way from the wild west town of Durango, Colorado through rugged mountainous scenery to the historic mining community of Silverton. Built in 1882, the railroad began hauling precious metals from the Red Mountain mining district, along with passengers intent on getting in and out of the high country.

By 1954, freight was no longer moved by railroad, and the D&SNGRR was designated a scenic tourist train. Today over 200,000 riders a year enjoy a trip along the Animas River through the San Juan Mountains on the Durango & Silverton rails.

Railway and Locomotive Types

The Durango & Silverton is a narrow gauge railroad, with tracks laid three feet apart, giving it the ability to handle tighter mountain curves. Its steam engine is powered by coal—in fact, the train goes through six tons of coal and 10,000 gallons of water in one 90-mile round trip!

Seating Options

Listed as one of the world’s top ten train rides, the D&SNGRR has four classes of service from which to enjoy a steam rail adventure. All seating is assigned.

• Presidential Class is limited to those over the age of 21 and offers two elegantly appointed seating areas inside this private Victorian rail car. There is also an exclusive outside viewing deck.
• First Class seating is available in five different enclosed car environments, with comfortable tables and chairs, a private attendant and complimentary beverages.
• Deluxe Class seating offers open-air cars with plush seating and narrated coaches.
• Standard Class seats are in open air gondolas and enclosed coaches.

Riding Options

The Durango & Silverton Railroad offers a wide variety of riding options for their customers.

• Passengers on the daily trip to Silverton can choose a round trip ticket, returning to Durango at the end of the day.
• Many passengers opt for a one-way train ticket to Silverton and ride Skyway Tours busses back over the high mountain passes of the Million Dollar Highway to Durango.
• Those wishing to stay a little longer in Silverton can take advantage of the Extended Silverton Adventure Express, enjoying the entire afternoon in the mountain town, before returning to Durango via chartered vans.

For even more options, purchase a seat in the locomotive with the engineer or in the caboose with the train’s brakeman. These are one-way tickets, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Specialty Trains

• Brew Trains – Taking place on special dates throughout the summer and fall, adults over the age of 21 can enjoy a light sampling of craft beers while learning about the process of creating them. A diesel engine train takes participants from Rockwood Station to Cascade Canyon, where they will disembark to enjoy lunch and more beer along with live entertainment. On the train ride back to Rockwood Station dessert and coffee will be served.
• Wine & Rails – Two dates in September offer a wine tasting train that runs from Durango to Cascade Canyon, where wineries offer two hours of tasting sessions, a Mediterranean lunch, a dance band, yard games and opportunities to photograph the Autumn scenery. The train back to Durango will have desserts and coffee available.
• Cowboy Poetry Train – Ride the rails with other cowboys and cowgirls as cowboy poetry entertainers recite their wildest yarns. The train pulls into Cascade Canyon, where a BBQ lunch awaits, along with more poetry, music, and stories.
• Polar Express – Kids of all ages will enjoy a train ride to the North Pole with all the characters from the Polar Express book. Sing along with the Christmas carols, enjoy hot chocolate and a special gift from Santa as he visits each car. These special rides run from mid-November to the first of January.

Length of Season

The train to Silverton runs from May 4 through October 27, with specialty trains running sporadically (check their schedule) from January 1 through December 9.

Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad

Originally one of five train lines that came through the nearby mining districts, today’s Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad rides on the rails of the old Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad, which hauled silver to smelters and passengers to Denver in the late 1800s. Eventually, the mines began to close as silver was demonetized, and train transportation dwindled.

A local couple renovated train cars, a Victorian-era depot, and roundhouse in the 1980s. They reopened the line for tourists to discover the beauty and history of the Upper Arkansas Valley. Today a two and one-half hour trip from Leadville now stops at an overlook of the enormous Climax Molybdenum Mine on Fremont Pass, following a path along the Highline, to present a stunning view of the valley below.

Railway and Locomotive Types

The Leadville, Colorado & Southern tracks were originally narrow gauge and were changed to standard gauge because of all the traffic the rails saw during World War II. Steam engines dominated the railroad until 1962 when today’s diesel engines took over the load. The old 641 steamer sits as a testament to the line’s history in the depot parking lot.

Seating Options

This excursion train offers general seating for all with no assigned seats. Passengers are free to roam the train as it sets course into the mountains, with enclosed cars, covered and open cars available. Restrooms and a snack car are also on board.

The conductor will give narration along the route, presenting the history of the train and Leadville’s mining days, and pointing out many of the sights viewed, along with a few juicy tidbits from the area’s imaginative characters.

Riding Options

All rides are roundtrip, covering 28 miles total in two and one-half hours.  The train does stop at the French Gulch Water Tower, where passengers can disembark for approximately 15 minutes to explore the mountainside or walk through the caboose.

For those looking for a special experience, purchase a seat in the locomotive with the engineer or in the caboose with the train’s brakeman.  These are one-way tickets, and children must be accompanied by an adult.  The other half of the journey will be in the general seating areas.

Specialty Trains

• Wildflower Special – Three dates in late summer are set aside for an exploration of Colorado’s stunning selection of wildflowers. Ride the train to the water tower, where passengers will disembark for a hike with guides, looking for lupine, columbine, Indian paintbrush, and wild strawberries, among other plants. Once you’ve identified these local treasures, finish your train trip in style with a tour of the Healy House Museum and a boxed lunch on the lawn.
• Devil’s Tail BBQ Train – Enjoy an evening train ride with tasty BBQ on board, viewing the Upper Arkansas Valley as the sun sets behind Colorado’s highest mountain peak. There are only three dinner trains scheduled for the season, so don’t miss your meal ticket!
• Train Ride & Zip Line Package – Combine a morning train ride through the mountainous wilderness around Leadville, then enjoy a fast-paced view of the valley in the afternoon, zipping through the trees and over gulches on a zip line tour. Packages are available throughout the summer season.

Length of Season

The Leadville, Colorado & Southern starts its season on Memorial Day weekend and finishes their tours the first weekend in October, weather permitting. Early and late season trains depart once a day, with two departures daily from mid-June to mid-August. Here is a link to their schedule.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

Built in 1880 to haul ore from the silver mines of the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, the Cumbres & Toltec Railroad only had a 13-year boom, before the mining industry was stymied with the demonetization of silver in 1893.

For many years the rails were abandoned, but in 1970 the states of Colorado and New Mexico purchased the section of track used today, and the railroad began its new life as a tourist train the next year. Visitors ride through wilderness not accessible by car to see 800 foot deep Toltec Gorge, cross high trestles, delve into the darkness of two tunnels and top out on Cumbres Pass.

Railway and Locomotive Types

Starting out as a narrow gauge railroad in 1880, the Cumbres & Toltec began to switch over to standard gauge within 10 years to make interchanging cars with other railroads possible. However, the rail section that today’s train runs on never got upgraded.

So five operating steam engines run by coal ride the narrow gauge tracks each day between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado.

Seating Options

Cumbres & Toltec has three levels of seating, reflected in ticket prices, which fluctuate with Summer and Fall seasons.

• The Premium Parlor Car is reserved for those over 21 and provides attendants who serve continental breakfasts and afternoon snacks, all included in the ticket price. This enclosed car is decorated in Victorian elegance with single seats and windows that can be closed against the weather.
• The Deluxe Tourist Car welcomes all ages to an enclosed car with tables and chairs. Concessions are available.
• The Classic Coach Car has padded bench seating in an enclosed car with closable windows. Passengers can move about this car and into the open air gondola cars.
• The Gondola Car is available for all ticketed passengers as they move throughout the train. There are no seats in the open air car, but it offers great views, and docents are available to answer questions.

Riding Options

The 64-mile long trip from Antonito to Chama (or Chama to Antonito) offers several choices for travel:

• Take the train from Antonito to Osier (the halfway point), where a buffet lunch is included with all ticket prices. Then return to Antonito by train.
• Take the train from Antonito to Osier, where a buffet lunch is included with all ticket prices. Then take a motor coach back to Antonito.
• Take the train from Chama to Osier, where a buffet lunch is included with all ticket prices. Then return to Chama by train.
• Take the train from Chama to Osier, where a buffet lunch is included with all ticket prices. Then take a motor coach back to Chama.
• Take the train from Antonito to Osier, where a buffet lunch is included with all ticket prices. Then take the train on to Chama. Return to your vehicle in Antonito by motor coach.
• Take the train from Chama to Osier, where a buffet lunch is included with all ticket prices. Then take the train on to Antonito. Return to your vehicle in Chama by motor coach.

Specialty Trains

• Geology Train – Travel with an award-winning geologist to study the particular rock make-up of the region, stopping along the way to interpret geologic points of interest.
• Wildflower Botany Train – Join the New Mexico District Forester to study the variety of plants in seven different life zones, identifying wildflowers, shrubs, and trees.
• Sunset Trains – Several trains during the summer season offer entertainment as the locomotive follows dusk across the state line.
• 4^th of July Dinner Train – Join passengers in a patriot attire contest, enjoy dinner entertainment as the train pulls away from the depot, then take in the spectacular fireworks display with front row seats on the Cumbres & Toltec.

Length of Season

The Cumbres & Toltec begins its season on Memorial Day weekend, ending on October 20, weather permitting. From Labor Day through the end of the season is their peak traveling period, with passengers vying to see the stunning Fall colors. Check out their schedule here.

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Join the thousands of RVers that have a love affair with trains and ride the rails on your next camping trip. We’ll have more RVing the Rails articles coming in the future so check in again soon to read and learn more!

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