Clarkdale, Ariz. — [June 7, 2025] — Verde Canyon Railroad, situated above the heat of the desert and below the cold of the high country, offers passengers a scenic ride any time of the year. Now, the Railroad is ushering in the summer season with the addition of a talented and dynamic duo who will lead efforts to extend visibility for this Arizona treasure across the state and beyond. Chelsey Hamilton and Brandon Hamilton are now Co-Directors of Communications, Marketing and Special Projects for the Railroad.
For the past year, the couple has served as the official spokespeople — the faces and voices — of Verde Canyon Railroad, creating compelling video content that has elevated the railroad’s marketing and social media presence.
“Chelsey and Brandon’s creative energy and authentic storytelling have already had a significant impact, and we are proud to share the news of their expanded capacity as they support the future of the Railroad,” said Daniel Adair, vice president of operations for Verde Canyon Railroad.
With over a decade of on-air experience, Chelsey and Brandon are no strangers to Arizona. They were previously beloved morning show personalities on Arizona television, and after transitioning from the anchor desk, the husband-and-wife team pursued a successful entrepreneurial path in real estate, event and video production, coaching and consulting.
“This is an exciting next chapter for us,” said Chelsey Hamilton. “Verde Canyon Railroad is such an exceptional Arizona treasure, and we’re honored to help share its story in new and innovative ways. We also are passionate about connecting with the community and creating experiences that leave a lasting impression. Plus, it’s such a blessing to be working together as husband and wife.”
Brandon Hamilton added, “My grandfather worked for various railroads for about 35 years. So, I’m excited to follow in his footsteps, out west! I’m extremely passionate about history and the nostalgic feel of railroads. In a way, we are keeping the past alive, while also protecting its future. We are grateful that Verde Canyon Railroad has given us the perfect platform to combine all of our passions into one.”
In their new role, the Hamiltons also will manage a slate of special events throughout the year. Among those efforts is the Grape Train Escape series, which kicks off June 7 and will run through mid-September. This special ride, featuring wine tasting on the train, coupled with complimentary charcuterie, takes one back to a time when relaxing train travel was recognized as a hallmark of sophistication.
Also running now through late October are Saturday Starlight Tours, which offer a sensational sunset to starlight journey deep into the wild heart of Arizona through a towering canyon only accessible by rail.
“We were ecstatic when Chelsey and Brandon accepted our invitation to join our marketing team full time,” commented Linda Durbano, marketing vice president for the Railroad. “Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their expertise in employing a contemporary marketing strategy has already proven itself with an increase in awareness and sales.”
Group Sales and Marketing Coordinator Ellen J D Roberts shared, “Having worked with Chelsey and Brandon over the past year, we already know how adept they are at creating and sharing great content, and capturing the vibe of Verde Canyon Railroad. They’re super fun to work with, so we’re delighted they have joined our team full time and can’t wait to introduce them to all of our local partners.”
For all public relations, media, marketing, and social media inquiries, please contact Chelsey and/or Brandon Hamilton directly.
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About Verde Canyon Railroad
People travel from all over the world to ride the rails into the Verde Canyon to experience Arizona’s longest-running nature show. Over 120,000 people per year enter the depot doors to learn more about the Railroad and the ride, a scenic 40-mile, four-hour roundtrip journey that immerses passengers in breathtaking scenery alive with vibrant flora, diverse fauna, and captivating geology. The Railroad’s mission is linked to the beautiful Canyon through which it passes, including the preservation of the environment, conservation of wildlife, protection of historic equipment and artifacts, and sharing with others the red-rock wilderness that makes this train ride a governor-designated “Arizona Treasure.” Learn more at verdecanyonrr.com.
