THROW MAMA AND PAPA ON THE TRAIN!

CLARKDALE, Ariz. - Each year Mom and Dad look forward to their respective celebratory holidays -- special Sundays when their children treat them with an extra dash of love and appreciation. This year, instead of giving a dust-gathering knick-knack, necktie, candy or other “ordinary” gift, the savvy offspring will celebrate his parent with a special memory that will last forever…an excursion into the wilderness of the Verde Canyon. What better way to say “thank you with love” than with quality time together onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad, while leaving the hectic hub-bub of city life far behind.

Mother Nature’s timeless artistry is abundant in the new look that springtime brings to the Verde Canyon wilderness area. It isn’t often that an attraction can guarantee great scenery, great service and a great time, every time, but the Verde Canyon Railroad can do just that. The whole family will delight at the colorful wildflowers that dot the landscape of this wall-to-wall wonderland.

Celebrate Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 13, 2007 with a special gift for each Mom, and a day of pampering she won’t soon forget. Mom will be grateful for the wonderful service, outstanding scenery, clean air of the canyon, and clear green waters of the Verde River below. The sight of baby eaglets fledging the nest, learning to survive the world on their own, with their doting parents nearby, will truly emphasize the important role Mom plays in the life of all creatures.

Father’s Day will be celebrated on Sunday, June 17, 2007. Not only will Dad receive a special gift just for riding, but the tunnels, trestles and other unexpected treats of the Verde Canyon will surprise and delight him. Passengers are encouraged to bring Dad to the depot early, experience the outdoor barbecue provided by the Copper Spike Café, and browse the gift store for souvenirs and memorabilia before the train’s 1:00 p.m. departure.

In both May and June, the Verde Canyon is in full bloom. The large canopies of sycamore and cottonwood trees shade the meandering river’s inhabitants. The prickly pear, other native cactuses and wildflowers add a dash of color against the red rock majesty of the canyon walls that envelop the rail.

The gentle breeze created as the train makes its way to Perkinsville and back at 12mph is just enough to cool the summer sun’s rays. From climate-controlled coaches or canopied open-air cars, the canyon can be viewed, appreciated and recalled as a memorable family experience for all mothers, fathers, sons and daughters.

Bring Mom and Dad to the Verde Canyon Railroad for some “Rail Hospitality” this year. Call 1-800-293-7245, or visit the Railroad’s website at www.verdecanyonrr.com.

The Verde Canyon Railroad is located at 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, Ariz. Ideally situated below the cold of the mountains, and above the heat of the desert, the train depot is 25 minutes from Sedona, two hours north of Phoenix, and one and one-half hours south of Flagstaff. Passengers are encouraged to arrive approximately one and one-half hours prior to departure.