The Verde Canyon Railroad is a stress-free wilderness adventure featuring an abundance of native flora and fauna; rugged, high-desert rock faces and spectacular vistas. This unique view of the canyon is accessible only by rail.
Verde Canyon Railroad
The train passes towering, crimson pinnacles; near ancient Indian ruins; over fortified trestles; past a monocline fault and through a man-made, 680-foot tunnel on a four-hour rail journey from the old mining town of Clarkdale to the Perkinsville ghost ranch and back.
This historic route – between two national forests and adjacent to a national wilderness area – follows the upper Verde River, a lush riparian habitat blessed with astonishing beauty. Expert narration and open-air car attendants leave you with an appreciation of the history, archaeology, geology, wildlife and Indian lore of the Verde Canyon. Original music is an integral part of the trip as you make your way through Arizona’s longest-running nature show…railroad style.
Two FP7 locomotives, only two of 12 remaining in North America, are the muscle that pulls the renovated passenger cars. Indoor cars are climate-controlled with restrooms, and the train meets ADA requirements. Three types of accommodations make up the Verde Canyon Railroad – caboose, first-class and coach. The exclusive caboose is designed for one, private party of six or less adults. Its luxurious interior features over sized chairs, large picture windows and private outdoor viewing platforms. A personal valet pours your complimentary Champagne upon boarding and serves sumptuous appetizers made fresh daily. Your choice of premium alcoholic beverages is available for purchase.
Verde Canyon Railroad
First-class service, accommodating fewer passengers, includes spacious living room-style seating near panoramic windows. Other amenities include Champagne upon boarding, full-service cash-bars featuring premium liquors, service at your seat and complimentary appetizers reflecting the Southwest region. Coach service features Pullman-style seats, the historical seating arrangement that has characterized train travel from its inception. Convenient snack bars offer an assortment of refreshments. All cars access open-air cars for 360 degrees of spectacular photo opportunities and narration which makes our train experience unlike any other. With comfortable seating, thoughtful décor and friendly, informative attendants, you will take pleasure in the beauty of this remote wilderness without sacrificing the luxury of comfort.
Some of the highlights of the ride include…
Verde Canyon Railroad
• Spectacular geology including a monocline fault
• Sinagua Indian ruins dating back to 600 B.C.
• Remnants of a bygone mining era including several mountains of slag
• A lively river habitat, the lifeline to a variety of wildlife and waterfowl
• Unique railroad structures including the S.O.B. and steel-canopied Perkinsville bridges
• A 680-foot, man-made tunnel where daylight diminishes briefly
