Tracks Across Borders Byway
Details
- Designation State Byway, Colorado and New Mexico
- Location CO
- Length 89 miles
Overview
The Tracks Across Borders Byway was designated in Colorado in 2015, and closely follows the historic Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad narrow gauge route. This route linked the towns of Chama, NM and Durango, CO until 1969. There are layers of history along the byway. In fact, it was named "Tracks Across Borders Byway" because of the unique, authentic journey through time, where travelers can re-trace the tracks and pathways of the past. From seasonal big game migration trails, native American footpaths, routes of 17th Century Spanish missionaries, the 18th Century Old Spanish Trail and 19th century Anglos migrating to the West, and of course the tracks of the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad. These railroad tracks supported the mining, ranching and and logging industries in the region and opened Southwest Colorado to settlers.
This Colorado and New Mexico scenic byway takes travelers on a journey across the border between two states; across two Native American Nations, the Jicarilla Apaches and Southern Utes; through breathtaking, remote countryside rich in history. The scenic drive winds past Navajo Lake State Park and through the varied communities of the present day. It features one of America's newest National Monuments, the archaeoastronomy sites of Chimney Rock National Monument.
A spectacular scenic drive, this byway offers multistate experiences traveling along the Colorado and New Mexico border between Durango, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico. Engulf yourself in Native American cultures, breathtaking countryside, treaties and technology, and varied communities of the present day. The byway’s primary feature is one of Colorado’s greatest stories, the creation and development of the state’s first, and ultimately the nation’s largest, narrow gauge railroad system.
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Durango CO
Driving Directions
The Byway starts in Durango, Colorado, and heads south on SH 172, following the historic narrow-gauge railroad through the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. Take a detour to Chimney Rock National Monument on SH 151 and then continue south on Co. Rd. 500, crossing the state line into New Mexico. From there, follow US 64 east to Chama, New Mexico.
Points of Interest
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Chimney Rock National Monument
Chimney Rock National Monument protects a 1000-year-old community which was once inhabited by the Ancestral Puebloans. Four ancient structures have been excavated and stabilized for public viewing, including the 44-foot diameter Great Kiva, the Pit House, a multi-room dwelling, and the Chacoan Great House Pueblo. Many unexcavated structures are also visible on the tours.
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Navajo State Park
Navajo State Park is nestled just outside the town of Arboles, 35 miles southwest of Pagosa Springs and 45 miles southeast of Durango. The Park is known as a haven for recreation, history, wildlife and the beauty of southwest Colorado. The Park’s reservoir attracts year-round water enthusiasts, including sailors, houseboaters, power boaters, as well as anglers and campers.
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Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum
The Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum in Ignacio, Colorado, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of the Southern Ute people. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the story of the Southern Ute people and participate in interactive programs. The museum also hosts cultural events like the ceremonial Bear Dance in the spring.
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Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad travels 64 scenic miles, from the San Juan Mountains to the Conejos Valley .Your ride begins in either Antonito, Colorado, or Chama, New Mexico.
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Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic railway whose steam locomotions have been in continuous operation since 1881. Originally built to transport silver and gold ore, it now serves as a scenic heritage railroad, offering amazing views of rugged terrain and the Animas River. The route is designated as a National Historic Landmark and has been recognized for its engineering significance.
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Durango Fish Hatchery
Since 1881, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) fish hatcheries have worked to improve Colorado’s fish populations. Currently, CPW operates 19 fish hatcheries, where over 90 million fish per year are hatched, reared and stocked.
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