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Chama Offers New Mexico’s Sun-Drenched
Flatlanders
Cool Weekend Getaways
 
Texans have been escaping the summer heat by taking to
the New Mexico hills doing it for nearly as long as
there as been a New Mexico. Has a nice ring to it,
doesn’t it?
Chama: The very name conjures up images of relief from
the high heat and dry winds that plague much of the Land
of Enchantment during these early days of summer. And
while many New Mexicans relish the heat, others may need
some respite, even if it’s only for a day or two.
“Chama is a tranquil, high-mountain escape, smack dab in
the middle of wooded wilderness and a high mountain
valley. It's those (cool) temperatures that make summer
so enjoyable in Chama,” said Michael Cerletti, Secretary
of the New Mexico Tourism Department. “Kick back at dusk
and watch for elk and deer grazing on the greenbelts or
fly fish the high-mountain streams.”
Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad officials have been
forced to temporarily suspend routine operations out of
the Chama Depot for an undetermined length of time, as
the Lobato Trestle was damaged by a fire Wednesday (June
23, 2010), rendering it impassable by trains. The
trestle is being restored to full operational capacity
as quickly as possible.
This doesn’t mean, however, that Chama is closed in the
interim.
“Chama is so much more than a train depot,” Cerletti
said. “Few Southwest destinations offer the unspoiled
scenery of the Chama Valley. With an average altitude of
7,800 feet and average July temperature of 68 degrees,
the Chama Valley offers a cool New Mexico summer getaway
like few others, with hiking, rafting, kayaking,
four-wheeling, fishing, horseback riding, shopping – you
name it.”
Everywhere you turn, you are greeted by towering
mountain peaks, scenic vistas and deep, colorful gorges.
Been to Yosemite? You’ll be struck by the similar beauty
of our own Brazos Cliffs. All forms of outdoor
recreation are at their finest, offering a new treats
and challenges. Make time for adventure in Chama.
Contact the Chama Valley Chamber of Commerce,
800-477-0149 or 575-756-2306; or visit
www.chamavalley.com
Contact the New Mexico Tourism Department’s Chama
visitor Information Center, 575-756-2235 or chama.vic@state.nm.us
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