Verde Canyon Railroad: take a ride on a scenic tour of northern Arizona
Operating since 1997, the Verde Canyon Railroad is located about 20 miles south of Sedona at the foot of the hill of Jerome. The rails were installed in 1911-1912 for the mining industry prevalent at that time, and pass over vintage trestles and through an incredible 680-foot man-made tunnel. The rare 1953 FP-7 diesel engines power a collection of restored vintage passenger cars through stony outcroppings of basalt, sandstone, and the various greens of Ocotillo, Yucca, Cottonwood, Juniper, Prickly pear, Mesquite, and Sycamore.
Seating options include comfy coach cars with vintage commuter-style seating. First-class reflects not only a luxurious setting but a solicitous attitude of pampering from the staff. The private opulence of the Caboose is a wonderful option for a party of six or less. The Caboose is stocked with a top shelf cash bar, equipped with a rest room and delightfully comfortable leather chairs. Climb up to the cupola for an eagle-eye view of this magnificent canyon.
Passengers will see Sinagua Indian ruins, golden and bald eagles, numerous waterfowl and other wild creatures while passing beautiful rock formations and steep red canyon cliffs. The excursion follows the Verde River twenty miles upstream through a pristine riparian and wilderness area only accessible by the train. The amazing scenery, geology, and attentive crew all add up to an unforgettable experience.
The Verde Canyon Railroad is truly a “train for all seasons” and runs year-round on a varied schedule. Each season brings a new celebration. The Chocolate Lovers’ Train is built around an extended Valentines Day weekend, followed by the Lucky Leprechaun Express, Easter Bunny Express and a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. The lazy days of summer are welcomed with the popular Grape Train Escapes, pairing fine wine and delectable food. Summer also sets the scene for the Tequila Sunset Limited. Clarkdale's Fourth of July celebration is extended to the Firecracker Express. Autumn brings Ales on Rails in October, and the spooky Haunted Halloween Express. Santa and his helpers bring holiday cheer aboard the Santa Claus Express every December.
Visit the Verde Canyon Railroad website for a complete calendar of events and to purchase tickets online.
- by Jennifer Pruett, Phoenix Reporter for HelloMetro
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Jennifer PruettA self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.
