Industry: Tourism
Founded: 1990
Traveling a rail line built in 1912 to service the copper mining industry out of nearby Jerome, Verde Canyon Railroad was reborn as a scenic passenger excursion in 1990, traveling the rare riparian wilderness of Arizona's scenic Sedona-area Verde Canyon. From the moment passengers step aboard the fully-restored vintage train they are whisked back to a time of luxurious and leisurely train travel. This four-hour excursion travels a 20-mile journey through a century of fascinating history and eons of awesome geology. Vintage 1953-built FP7 locomotives, two of only 10 remaining in North America, are the muscle that powers the renovated consist of cars. Indoor cars are climate-controlled and each has a restroom. Comfortable seating, thoughtful décor and friendly, informative attendants add to the beauty of this remote wilderness without sacrificing the luxury of comfort.
All passengers have access to adjacent open-air viewing cars for panoramic views of this scenic red rock canyon. Music mixed with fascinating educational narration of the four hour, 40 mile round-trip is a great selection of classic railroad tunes, thoughtfully chosen for their historical significance and rockin’ beat.
Every season offers a different reason to ride. Winter is noted for the influx of visiting bald eagles joining resident raptors in the Verde Canyon. Spring is noted for the abundance of wild blooms along the journey, and summer is popular for the special "Starlight" excursion on select Saturday eves. Autumn is golden with fall foliage as well as the Verde Canyon Railroad's popular "Ales on Rails" party on the patio throughout the month of October.
It's Not the Destination, It's the Journey