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Verde Canyon Railroad

things to see and do

The Verde Canyon Railroad is a stress-free wilderness adventure featuring an abundance of native flora and fauna, rugged high-desert rock faces and remarkable vistas. This exclusive view of the Canyon is only accessible by rail. The train passes towering crimson pinnacles, near ancient Indian ruins, over fortified trestles, past a monocline fold and through a manmade 680-foot tunnel. The four-hour rail journey takes you from the old mining town of Clarkdale to the Perkinsville ghost ranch and back. This historic ribbon of rails – 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 seasoned car attendants leave you with an appreciation of the history, archaeology, geology, wildlife and Indian lore of the Verde Canyon. Music and narration are an integral part of the trip as you make your way through Arizona’s longest-running nature show … railroad style.

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verde canyon railroad highlights

Locomotive "ride along"

Verde Canyon Railroad offers an exclusive opportunity for one person to experience a Locomotive “Ride-Along” with seating inside the cab of a powerful railroad engine. It is now time for that kid who lives inside us all to fulfill a childhood fantasy. Must be 18 yrs or older to participate.

OPEN-AIR CARS

All cars access open-air viewing cars equipped with shaded canopies. Outdoor attendants well-versed in the canyon’s history, geology and wildlife share highlights and answer your questions. Being outdoors brings you face to face with the sounds and sights of the high desert that characterizes the Canyon.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Depending on the time of year you visit, you could select a tour with wine or beer tasting, enjoy spectacular fall colors, starlight rides or embark on a magical Christmas journey! Check the schedule when booking.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE

Arizona’s Longest-Running Nature Show! Located in the red rock country near Sedona, Verde Canyon Railroad’s rare ribbon of rails runs through a dramatic high desert landscape adjacent to a precious riparian ecosystem. Photo ops abound at every turn, and it’s an ideal adventure to share with family and friends. The depot is located in historic Clarkdale, a century-old company town created for nearby Jerome’s United Verde Copper.

LOCATION MAP + DIRECTIONS

VISITOR INFO

Verde Canyon Railroad - Logo

Verde Canyon Railroad
300 N. Broadway
Clarkdale AZ 86324
800-582-7245
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Since 1912 this heritage railroad, sandwiched between two protected national forests, has existed in harmony in the wilderness through which it passes and the canyon’s native inhabitants. The first excursion train of the Verde Canyon Railroad rolled out of the Clarkdale depot on November 23, 1990, offering a glimpse of this treasured landscape to visitors while providing an unforgettable encounter that transcends generations.