From historic mining sites to stunning red rock vistas, the Verde Canyon Railroad offers a unique ride through a protected corridor at the Verde River’s edge. As the train rolls into Verde Canyon, passengers are surrounded by towering cliffs, colorful geology, and a rugged landscape that seems untouched by time. What you will see on the Verde Canyon train is a side of Arizona that few travelers ever experience — a living showcase of natural beauty, wildlife, and history.
Explore the top sights along the route, discover nearby attractions, and find out why this is one of the most scenic train journeys in the country.
At a Glance: Top Verde Canyon Railroad Highlights
- Route & Duration: 40-mile round trip (Clarkdale ⇄ Perkinsville), ~4 hours
- Tunnel: 734-foot tunnel through solid rock — a favorite highlight
- Famous Bridge: 175-foot-long “S.O.B. Bridge,” which crosses over a 150-foot-deep basalt gorge
- Scenery Highlights: Towering cliffs, Verde River, ancient ruins, bridges and trestles
- Wildlife: Bald eagles, hawks, javelina, mule deer, herons and more
- Best Viewing Spots: Open-air viewing cars accessed by each passenger car
What’s Behind All the Twists and Turns on the Train Ride?
The Verde Canyon Railroad winds its way through more than 80 dramatic curves—each one shaped by centuries of wind, water and erosion. Early railroad builders had no choice but to follow the natural bends of the Verde River, chiseling a path through solid rock with picks, shovels, and sheer determination. What was once a punishing construction project is now a breathtaking experience for passengers, as every turn reveals a new, awe-inspiring view.
Where Does the Verde Canyon Train Start Its Journey?
The adventure kicks off in the small town of Clarkdale, located in the heart of central Arizona. This area has deep ties to the copper mining boom and the historic Clarkdale depot serves as the official starting point of the Verde Canyon Railroad.
What Can You Do at the Clarkdale Depot?
The depot in Clarkdale isn’t just a starting point—it’s a landmark in its own right. At the depot, visitors can explore a small museum of historic railroad artifacts, shop for souvenirs, grab snacks or drinks, and relax on the shaded pavilion before departure. It’s a great place to take in scenic views and learn about the region’s rail history before your journey begins.
Can You See Red Rock Formations from the Train?
Yes, passengers on the Verde Canyon train can see towering red rock formations. Their vibrant hues and dramatic shapes make for unforgettable sightseeing and photography.
Are There Ghost Towns Along the Route?
Absolutely! Many remnants of Arizona’s mining past can be seen along the journey. The train ride ends at the ghost town of Perkinsville, which ended as a train stop in the early 1950s. These abandoned mining sites reflect the Verde Valley’s roots in copper mining and the historic significance of the route.
Can You See Ancient Ruins from the Train?
Tuzigoot National Monument Views
Tuzigoot National Monument can be glimpsed from the Verde Canyon Railroad depot, a historic reminder of the ancient Sinagua civilization that once inhabited the area.
Ancient Cliff Dwellings
Keep your eyes peeled for ancient cliff dwellings once occupied by the Sinagua Indians. These dwellings are tucked into the canyon walls. These towering abodes, tucked into canyon walls, are remnants of early Native American life that tell stories of resilience and resourcefulness.
Are There Any Notable Bridges or Tunnels?
The Verde Canyon Railroad Tunnel
One of the most thrilling features of the ride is the tunnel carved straight through canyon rock. This 734-foot tunnel adds a dramatic moment to the journey as the train plunges into darkness before emerging back into sunlight surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s a testament to the engineering feat that made this rail route possible and a favorite highlight for riders of all ages. Plan your adventure now!
Historic Railroad Bridges
As the train winds through Verde Canyon, it crosses several historic bridges and trestles, each with its own character and engineering charm. These structures span deep ravines and the Verde River itself, offering dramatic perspectives and photo-worthy moments. Among the most impressive is the 175-foot-long S.O.B. bridge, showcasing the ingenuity required to build a railway through such rugged terrain.
What Wildlife Can You Spot on the Ride?
Wildlife sightings during the train ride include bald eagles, pronghorn, deer, red-tailed hawks, and more. It’s one of the top reasons photographers and nature lovers are drawn to this ride. There’s a good reason why Verde Canyon Railroad is often called the longest-running nature show.
What Are the Best Seats on the Train?
Open-Air Viewing Cars
What better way to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery than from Verde Canyon Railroad’s open-air viewing cars? These specially designed cars, accessible from all indoor cars, offer unobstructed, panoramic views of these iconic landmarks. Take a look inside the train.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive Early: Allow time to explore the depot and the surrounding Clarkdale area.
- Bring Binoculars: Great for spotting bald eagles and distant cliff dwellings.
- Dress in Layers: The weather can shift between sun, shade, and elevation changes.
- Charge Your Camera (or Phone): You’ll use it—a lot.
