Verde Canyon Railroad in Clarkdale AZ

Verde Canyon Railroad

Verde Canyon is yet another spectacularly scenic canyon in Arizona. And you can enjoy this natural splendor with a four-hour train ride on the historic Verde Canyon Railroad. Jump on board the vintage 1940s era coaches and open-air viewing cars from Clarkdale, Arizona through the Verde Canyon to the Perkinsville ghost town. The train ride is fully narrated and attendants will answer questions.

The Verde Canyon is often called "Arizona's Other Grand Canyon". The train is a kickback way to enjoy the natural beauty of the canyon and to discover its old west mining history. Ancient Sinagua Indians once roamed these lands over a thousand years ago and left their dwellings carved into the canyon. Remnants of early pioneers are also scattered throughout the area.

The Train Experience

The Verde Canyon is only accessible by rail and features amazing views distinctive to this unique geological area. The vintage locomotive will pull you past towering, crimson-red cliffs, ancient Indian ruins, through a 680 foot man-made tunnel to the turnaround stopping point at the now deserted Perkinsville Ranch. The route follows the upper Verde River with its lush Riparian habitat.

Ride first-class or coach all year-long. First Class cars feature living-room style seating with complimentary appetizers, beverages and a cash bar. Coach offers Pullman-style seating with two seats on each side of the center aisle and a snack bar. Passenger cars are climate-controlled with restrooms. There is easy access to the open-air viewing cars.

Excursion trains run daily except Tuesday and depart from the station at 1:00 PM and return at 5:00 PM, Sunday thru Friday. On Saturdays, there are two excursions. One leaving at 9:00 AM returning at 1:00 PM and another departing at 2:30 PM and returning at 6:30 PM.

Seasons and Special Rides Add Unique Perspective

Spring brings colorful wildflowers and new, lush green foliage along the rive edges. During the summer the large sycamore trees and flora accent the Verde River. Fall brings the Autumn colors while ghosts and ghouls hitch a ride on the Haunted Halloween Express. And winter brings the Christmas Express that shares candy canes and good cheer.

Special Starlight Rides give a whole new look to the train's journey with tequila or wine tastings. Or put yourself into the mood for special rides like St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and Cinco de Mayo.

Location of Verde Canyon Railroad

The Verde Canyon Railroad is located in Clarkdale, Arizona which is about 25 miles south of Sedona, Arizona and near Jerome. Clarkdale is about 125 miles from Scottsdale.

Map and Directions

Contact For More Information

Check group packages, rates, schedules, special rides, weddings on the train, holiday events, gift, other area attractions and questions. Note, schedules are subject to change without notice. Always verify.

Verde Canyon Railroad Website
300 North Broadway
Clarkdale, Arizona 86324
800-582-7245

More information about Verde Canyon Railroad
Also see Grand Canyon Railway day trip from Scottsdale.