Raton Stole This Kansas Traveler’s Heart

When traveler and musician Trevor Pleasant boarded the Amtrak last fall, he didn’t have a set destination in mind. He just wanted to go somewhere new and experience the ride. That trip brought him to Raton, New Mexico, a place he knew nothing about but quickly fell in love with.

Views of Goat Hill - Photo By: Trevor P.

Here is Trevor's experience in Raton, New Mexico in his own words:

Amtrak Station - Photo By: Trevor P.

I can give you many reasons why I love Raton, but I can be completely honest: I did not know anything about the city of Raton until early October of 2024. I wanted to experience riding the Amtrak for the first time, yet with no destination in sight. I knew I wanted to go anywhere west of Kansas. Basically, I just threw a dart at a map, and Raton became my destination to visit for my birthday.

Once I did my research on the town, I joined the Raton Community page and started engaging with the locals on places to stay, eat, hike, and explore. I arrived on October 22, 2024, and was greeted by a local, Tim Curry, who is now a lifelong friend. He showed me around the town and surrounding areas, along with Shayne Young and his wife, Sandra Young. They have become good friends of mine.

I love Raton because of the beautiful scenery, mountain views, and kindness of the locals. The place has an abundance of peace that you can’t get in a bigger city, along with charm and hospitality. That is why I love Raton.

For visitors, I would recommend taking in all of the views that the town has to offer, whether it’s strolling downtown or hiking at a place like Climax Canyon. A place that has good history through art would be Carl Swanson's Art Gallery.

Bruno's Pizza and Wings - Photo By: Trevor P.

For good eats, check out places like Bruno’s Pizza and Wings, Colfax Ale Cellar, Portillo’s, and Los Chanquis. You can’t order a food item in New Mexico without having green chile! For a small breakfast and coffee to jumpstart your morning, 111 Park Espresso Bar is a must. For a sweet tooth, Mama K’s serves a variety of great ice cream. You can also check out my unofficial band, First Street Revival, which performs at Mama K’s every Saturday.

I would say don’t be shy, interact with the locals. Some of them are business owners or relocated from different areas of the country. They will work as your unofficial tour guides to help you navigate throughout the city of Raton. It is a must that visitors see Sandra at the Raton Adventure Centre. Everything Raton wrapped into one. You will learn about local food spots, wildlife, Lake Maloya at Sugarite Canyon State Park, Johnson's Mesa, and the NRA Whittington Center, which has some breathtaking views, especially in the morning. Just explore the whole town, you definitely will not regret it.

Views of Lake Maloya - Photo By: Trevor P.

The reason I continue to come back to Raton to visit is because of the peace and relaxation I get. Some of the most genuine people you will ever meet reside in Raton, New Mexico. You cannot beat the views that you get in Northern New Mexico. Hills, valleys, mesas, and mountains surround the area. Locally owned businesses make me feel like I am part of the community. Even though it's a small town in appearance on the map, this city is huge in togetherness and community. A town that has such historical significance not only in the context of New Mexico but also in American history. The city of Raton has me hooked for many reasons, and I will continue to make Raton my second home.