Sublette, NM, is another section house site on the D&RGW's San Juan Extension, located at milepost 306.1. The local elevation is around 9375 feet above sea level. In addition to the section house and related structures, Sublette is also the site of a water tank and a 1096 ft. siding.

Sublette is the best preserved of the remote D&RGW section houses along the line. Not only does the original section house survive, but so do two bunk houses? and a coal storage house. All have been stabilized and preserved by the Friends?.

The original water tank was of standard D&RGW design, and was located on the south side of the tracks across from where the water standpipe? is today. The tank lasted until 1937, when it was replaced by the underground cistern and standpipe? that exists yet today. Both still function, and locomotives do still take on water here from time to time.

Today, Sublette still sees narrow gauge trains as part of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, though most passengers see it just going by, as the location is not a regular stop.

Glover and Wilson note in "The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - The Historical Preservation Study" that from 1880 to about 1882, there was another Sublette. Located about a mile east of the current location on a sharp curve in the line, this alternate Sublette was also known as Boydsville. After 1882, there is no further mention of this alternate location.

Maps and Photos

Photos of Sublette, NM

Categories: Locations