It’s not the destination, it’s the journey. Verde Canyon Railroad is Arizona’s longest-running nature show.

Climb aboard as Verde Canyon Railroad whisks you 20 miles into wilderness country and thousands of years back in time into a scenic red rock landscape accessible only by train. Car attendants are at your service, ensuring a memorable experience through their expert knowledge of the Railroad and the history, archaeology, geology, wildlife and Indian lore that is Verde Canyon. The four-hour, round-trip journey starts in historic Clarkdale, traveling to the Perkinsville ghost ranch and back. Captivating panoramic views of two national forests and a designated wilderness area are revealed in every direction; sights that are exclusive from the comfort of our train. This historical ribbon of rails runs along the river’s edge, lined with towering red rock pinnacles, near ancient Sinagua ruins, over historic bridges and through a thrilling 680-foot man-made tunnel carved through solid rock over a century ago. As far as the eye can see, wildlife, high-desert foliage and rugged terrain are visible on this year-round adventure into this lush riparian habitat.

The Train’s vintage FP7 locomotives, two of only 10 remaining in North America, are the muscle that powers the passenger cars. All indoor cars are climate-controlled, equipped with private restrooms and the train meets ADA requirements. Each car features huge windows which frame the impressive Verde Canyon. Three types of accommodations make up the Verde Canyon Railroad – caboose, first-class and coach. The charming Caboose provides an exclusive experience for up to six guests, or a more intimate journey for two. Its luxurious interior features over- sized chairs, large windows and access to private outdoor platforms. A valet pours Champagne upon departure and serves complimentary, freshly-made appetizers. Premium liquors are available for purchase. First-class service , accommodating fewer passengers per car than coach-class, has oversized windows and spacious, comfortable seating in a living-room atmosphere. Expect a Champagne toast upon boarding, no-host bars presenting premium liquors, complimentary appetizers and service at one’s seat. Coach-class service features traditional Pullman-style seating with panoramic windows. Friendly car attendants man snack bars stocked with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and an array of snacks for purchase.

Perhaps the most distinct feature of the Railroad is the ability to walk onto an open-air viewing car … it’s like having two seats for the price of one! These canopied cars allow you to immerse yourself in Mother Nature’s grandeur. Feel the Canyon’s gentle breeze at the train’s slow pace and behold the wealth of rich colors that fill towering canyon walls. Outstanding photo opportunities abound from this 360-degree vantage. Open-air viewing cars are accessible from all cars.

At the depot: The Southwestern-style depot is home to the Boxcar Gift Store, Whistlestop Shop and Copper Spike Café. Near the shaded outdoor portico is the John Bell Museum, teeming with vintage artifacts from the railroad’s early days. A stroll along the quarter- mile length of the train’s loading platform leads you to eye-catching storyboards overflowing with details about the Verde Canyon encounter, early settlers and other railroad lore. The depot and museum are open daily. Relax and enjoy lunch at the depot, prepared by the Copper Spike Cafe, prior to boarding.

Verde Canyon Railroad works in partnership with Arizona wildlife rescue center, Liberty Wildlife, and regularly scheduled visits with educational animals occur at the depot and aboard the train throughout the year. Sonora, a bald eagle, rides the train with Liberty Wildlife volunteers once per month, paying a visit to each open-air car during the trip.

Nestled in the heart of the Verde Valley, near Sedona and Jerome, Verde Canyon Railroad is ideally situated above the heat of the desert and below the cold of Arizona’s high country. This Railroad truly is a train for all seasons.
Winter: Chocolate Lovers Train at Valentine time. Eagle Watch season when the population of native raptors swells with seasonal visitors.
Spring: Spring in Bloom, Easter Bunny Express.
Summer: Saturday evening Starlight tours June through September
Autumn: Fall Colors tours, Ales on Rails party on the patio in October

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