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Ride off Into the Sunset: Verde Canyon Railroad Announces the Return of Saturday Starlight Adventures Beginning March 7, 2026

Home » Ride off Into the Sunset: Verde Canyon Railroad Announces the Return of Saturday Starlight Adventures Beginning March 7, 2026

Media Contacts:
Chelsey Hamilton: chelsey.h@verdecanyonrr.com or 480-417-8844
Brandon Hamilton: brandon.h@verdecanyonrr.com or 623-986-9908

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ride off Into the Sunset: Verde Canyon Railroad Announces the Return of Saturday Starlight Adventures Beginning March 7, 2026

Clarkdale, Arizona — [February 16, 2026] — Here, passengers don’t need a horse to ride into the sunset — only horsepower. Saturday Starlight Adventures return March 7, 2026, and continue on Saturdays through year’s end. This signature evening excursion carries passengers from golden hour into starlight, as red rock cliffs glow at sunset, shadows stretch across the Verde River, and the desert sky transforms into a canopy of stars. The nighttime rail journey offers a rare perspective of Arizona’s iconic landscape — all experienced under the setting sun and returning beneath starshine.

Departing from the historic Clarkdale Depot in the late afternoon, the train travels deep into the Verde Canyon, crossing century-old bridges, passing through a 734-foot-long tunnel and turning around at the historic cattle ranch of Perkinsville at sunset, before returning under the stars. The evening schedule allows guests to enjoy stunning sunset views on the outbound journey and a memorable night ride on the return.

Each guest receives a first-class experience with luxury living room-style seating in climate-controlled indoor train cars, with access to adjoining open-air viewing cars for unobstructed stargazing. A selection of beverages and refreshments will be available for purchase onboard, enhancing the relaxed and festive atmosphere of this Saturday evening tradition.

Saturday Starlight Adventures are popular with couples, families, groups and adventure seekers, looking for a distinctive way to spend a Saturday night in Northern Arizona.

Reservations are strongly encouraged, as seating is limited and select dates are anticipated to sell out. Tickets are available at https://verdecanyonrr.com/saturday-starlight-adventures/.

The departure times for Saturday Starlight Adventures change throughout the year to align with the season’s sunset, so guests can enjoy the Canyon’s golden hour before the stars take over.

For more information about Verde Canyon Railroad, visit verdecanyonrr.com

It’s not the Destination; It’s the Stargazer’s Journey

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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.

About Taawaki Inn Resort
Taawaki Inn Resort is a luxurious hotel in Clarkdale, Arizona, designed to reflect the spirit, artistry and cultural heritage of Native American people through thoughtfully curated architecture, artwork and guest experiences. In Hopi, “Taawaki” means “House of the Sun.” Located at the gateway to Tuzigoot National Monument and overlooking the Verde Valley, the Resort offers a refined retreat with modern amenities, sweeping views of Sedona and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape and history. Guests can explore the Tsor’ovi Gift Store & Gallery, sip and savor at Blue Corn Lounge, unwind on the new covered veranda with fire pit seating, or relax at the new pool and hot tub. Created as both a place of rest and cultural connection, Taawaki Inn Resort invites guests to experience Northern Arizona through a lens of authenticity and comfort — less than five minutes from the iconic Verde Canyon Railroad. Learn more at taawakiinn.com.