Things To Do in Chama

After sitting on the steam train, you may want to stroll for a while, hitting a few of the shops in Chama. One of note is the Local Color Gallery, 567 Terrace Ave. (tel. 888/756-2604 or 575/756-2604), in the center of town. Here you'll find all kinds of locally made arts and crafts, from pottery to moody candles painted with petroglyph symbols to picturesque watercolors of the Chama area. Nearby, the Trackside Emporium, 611 Terrace Ave. (tel. 575/756-1848), offers train books and videos and model cars.

Summer evenings in Chama now include entertainment beyond watching the river flow in its banks or the beer flow in the local tavern. The Elkhorn Lodge, 2663 S. US 84 (tel. 800/532-8874 or 575/756-2105; www.elkhornlodge.net), sponsors a Chuckwagon Cowboy Dinner Saturday evenings. Guests chow down on beef brisket, beans, and corn bread while watching a historical western narrative told through guitar music and singing. Kids like the food and the fun story. Reservations required; contact Elkhorn Lodge. Performances start at 7pm, and prices run $20 for adults and $9 for children 12 and under; children under 2 eat free (no plate).