Starlight Ride on Verde Canyon Railroad

Make your way to the Verde Canyon Railroad Train Depot in Clarkdale, Arizona, not far from Sedona, to begin your Verde Canyon Railroad adventure.

This rail adventure offers a wilderness train ride through the remote Verde Canyon which is known for its picturesque setting and abundant wildlife. Though it’s possible to hike in the canyon, by far the easiest way to experience it is by riding this scenic wilderness train.

The train is made up of exquisitely-renovated passenger coaches and open-air viewing cars pulled by vintage locomotives and travels a route along the Verde River between Clarkdale and Perkinsville. After embarking from the Clarkdale depot, sit back for a 4-hour, 40-mile round trip that includes views of historic mining sites, geological wonders, Sinagua Indian cliff dwellings and wildlife from bald eagles to antelope.

You will remain spellbound as your vintage carriages cross an expansive railway bridge embedded in basalt cliffs, glide through a covered bridge opening the gateway to Perkinsville, or experience daylight retreating in the 680-foot manmade tunnel, all odes to that same bygone era. Two FP7 locomotives, only two of 10 remaining in North America, are the muscle that powers the newly-renovated passenger cars.

Indoor cars are climate-controlled with restrooms and the train meets ADA requirements. Your first class cabins feature panoramic windows in a living room-style atmosphere of comfortable love seats or bistro-style chair-and-table seating near panoramic windows. Enjoy a champagne toast upon boarding, a variety of complimentary appetizers reflecting the southwest region and full-service cash bars featuring premium liquors and beverage service at your seat. With comfortable seating indoors and access to high-backed benches on the adjoining open-air cars, it is like getting two seats for the price of one.