Verde Canyon Railroad is a historic railroad located in Clarkdale, Arizona, that today offers scenic round-trips from Clarkdale to the Perkinsville ghost ranch and back. It offers stunning views of the area and is today known as an Arizona Treasure.
The railroad was opened in 1912 as the Verde Valley Railway, having been built to provide a link to the copper mines in Jerome, Arizona. From 1990 it was used as a passenger railroad and today offers excursions covering the entire length of the railroad.
It provides a beautiful scenic trip that travels through forests and a designated wilderness area, with tunnels and bridges all adding something extra to the trip. The 40-mile round-trip lasts for 4 hours, following the Verde River for the entire way and crossing through the Verde Canyon, offering even more stunning views.
The train ride gives passengers the chance to see some breathtaking views and photo opportunities including Indian ruins, bald eagles and stunning geological features. There's the option of both passenger-style seating from coach to first class as well as open-air cars so passengers get the chance to choose, and all train rides are narrated to make sure you don't miss out on anything.
The Clarkdale Depot is home to a museum, gift shop and cafy, giving visitors the chance to learn more about the history of the line and have a bite to eat before their journey. Then they can browse through the gift shop on their return, offering the perfect place to pick up a souvenir of the day.
The railroad offers trips throughout the year, with every season offering something new for passengers to see. It also offers the perfect and unique place to host any type of function, from corporate events to private parties, where it can cater to up to 428 people at any one time.
Groups are always accommodated and special packages can always be arranged, with the railroad being partnered with a number of hotels and inns in the area. Gift cards can even be purchased offering the perfect gift, or why not treat someone to a trip in the first-class car for even more of an experience.
The railroad is in operation throughout the year with different times according to the season. It's closed most Tuesdays and major public holidays, and at all other times make sure to check the schedule to see when it's running. Normal operational times are 1pm, and there are a number of special events throughout the year such as the Easter Bunny Express, Haunted Halloween and the Santa Claus Express.
The Verde Canyon Railroad gives passengers the chance to see the surroundings from a unique perspective, and is the perfect way to enjoy a fun and different day out. With the train being operational throughout the year and with the scenery changing according to the season there's always a good time to go, and is well worth the trip for anyone in the area and beyond.
Photo of Verde Canyon:
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