In the Canyon
The four-hour ride on Verde Canyon Railroad’s historic route from Clarkdale to Perkinsville and back – into Arizona’s other “grand canyon” – is an unforgettable adventure. Captivating panoramic views are revealed in every direction, exclusively from the relaxed atmosphere of the train. This historic ribbon of rail runs through a protected corridor at the river’s edge, lined with towering red rock pinnacles, near ancient Indian ruins, over fortified bridges and through an invigorating 734-foot manmade tunnel carved through solid rock over a century ago. As far as the eye can see, wildlife, high-desert foliage and rugged terrain are visible on this year-round adventure into a lush riparian habitat.
The Verde Canyon, featuring an abundance of native flora and fauna, rugged, high-desert rock faces and spectacular vistas, is only accessible by rail. As you step aboard this popular excursion, complete with luxurious coaches and open-air viewing cars pulled by vintage diesel engines, expect to be captivated by this untouched and unspoiled canyon.
The ride from Clarkdale to the turn-around point of Perkinsville is scheduled so passengers may enjoy the progress of daylight as it dances over the rippling green waters of the Verde River, then tiptoes across the canyon floor through canopies of foliage before escaping up the towering canyon walls into the brilliant azure skies of this celebrated gorge. On the return trip to Clarkdale, the Canyon takes on an entirely new dimension with further shifting of illumination and shadows.
Treasured Landscapes, Unforgettable Experiences
Sandwiched between two protected sanctuaries, the Coconino National Forest and the Prescott National Forest, the Railroad runs a rare ribbon where dramatic high desert meets a precious riparian area. Such scenery comprises only 2% of the Arizona landscape.
Since 1912 the train has existed in harmony with the wilderness and its native inhabitants, and since 1990 has offered a glimpse of these treasured landscapes to our train passengers, providing unforgettable experiences that transcend the generations.
Red Rock Canyons Near Sedona
More than any other feature, Arizona is defined by canyons. All across the state, these great gorges in the landscape harbor scenery and secrets. One of the most spectacular is Verde Canyon.
Take a moment to imagine Sedona and its world-famous landscape without the development. The towering red rock buttes and haunting formations with no roads or resorts, no homes or hotels. You’ve just conjured up an image of Verde Canyon.
Inspired by nature, conducted by experts, Verde Canyon Railroad travels through this wall-to-wall wonderland.
High cliff walls adorned with cactus and agave overlook this splashy oasis, while graceful cottonwoods and sycamores canopy the water.
Family Tour of Flora & Fauna
Such a collision of ecosystems lures a variety of wildlife, a fur and feather roster that makes Verde Canyon Railroad the envy of other excursion trains and adventure tours.
History comes alive above, below, and around every turn. Ancient Sinagua ruins in towering cliffs stand sentinel over the tracks.
Sturdy trestles and elegant bridges span side gorges, testaments to the hard work and ingenuity of the men who built them over 100 years ago.
Blasted through solid rock, a 680-foot man-made tunnel envelopes passengers in total darkness before delivering the train back into glorious Arizona sunshine.
This bewitching scenery forms an unforgettable backdrop for the slow rolling journey of Verde Canyon Railroad.