This 40-Mile Train Ride Is The Most Relaxing Way To Enjoy Arizona Scenery
By Katie Lawrence|Published September 28, 2018
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Experiencing all that Arizona has to offer would be impossible on foot. Not only would it take a lifetime, but some of our most amazing scenery isn’t even accessible to pedestrians! That’s where Verde Canyon Railroad steps in.
This incredible journey takes passengers to areas of the state that you can only get to by train. Not to mention that it’s almost time for the leaves to begin changing into those brilliant autumn hues we love so much – and what better way to bear witness to such an amazing phenomenon than by train?
Why walk through Arizona's scenery when you could take a train instead?
The railroad boasts fully-restored vintage FP7 locomotives, two of only 10 remaining in the entire country. A four-hour ride leads you into one of the state's most astonishingly beautiful canyons while turning the clock back to much simpler times.
The 40-mile round trip ride runs from Clarkdale to Perkinsville and back, winding through towering rock faces and spectacular vistas accessible only by rail.
Strategically timed so passengers can witness the sun's reflection dancing on the canyon walls as it progresses across the sky, the ride truly showcases everything we love about our state.
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Choose between first-class and coach seating for an experience that suits your group's specific needs.
Both options have their pros and cons. In first-class, you'll enjoy spacious living room-style seating with panoramic windows, a champagne toast upon boarding, a cash-bar with premium liquor selection, service at your seat, and complimentary appetizers. While less luxurious, coach offers a more traditional and less expensive trip, with Pullman-style seats that have characterized railroad travel since it began. Snack bars with a variety of refreshments are available.
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For the ultimate luxury ride, an exclusive caboose can be rented for a private party of up to six adults.
It includes oversized chairs, large windows, cupola seating, private outdoor viewing platforms, a personal valet who pours complimentary champagne upon your arrival, and freshly-prepared hors-d'oeuvres.
Twice a month on Saturdays, visitors get the incredible opportunity to see owls, raptors, and even a rescued bald eagle both at the depot and onboard. Click here for trip dates and to reserve your spot.
Another popular event is Ales on Rails, a beer-tasting tour running through October 31.
Sample local craft beers from Arizona breweries like Lumberyard and Four Peaks, as well as a lunch of grilled sausages, potato salad, and hot pretzels. Raise a glass to celebrate entering the new season with your favorite people.
This time of year brings the Sedona Fall Colors Tour, which is available through November.
Settle into a comfortable love seat or bistro chair and gaze out through panoramic windows at the spectacular views of aspen trees lining the Verde River. There's no place like Arizona when the leaves start to change, and this ride takes you in the midst of it all.
Have you ever watched an Arizona sunset from a train car? If not, it's definitely a bucket list-worthy experience.
The Verde Canyon Railroad Depot is located at 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale AZ 86324. Be sure to visit their website for a complete list of excursions with prices and dates.
Have you ever ridden the Verde Canyon Railroad? Which trip did you take? We want to hear all about your experience in the comments below!
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