Verde Canyon Railroad: Scenic Train Ride & Champagne

Summary

Vintage train journey through red rock canyons with wildlife views

You’ll ride vintage railcars through Arizona’s wild Verde Valley with Champagne in hand and stories from your local guide drifting over canyon views. Watch for eagles above red cliffs, taste simple appetizers as sunlight shifts on ancient ruins, and feel time slow down as you cross bridges only trains can reach.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the smell — not of the train, but that dry Arizona air, almost sweet and dusty at once, when we stepped onto the platform in Clarkdale. I’d seen photos of the Verde Canyon Railroad but didn’t expect the way those old railcars creaked a little as we settled in, or how our guide, Tom (who’s been riding this line for years), grinned when he handed us our Champagne. “Keep your eyes out for eagles,” he said, like it was an everyday thing.

We rolled out slow, past cottonwoods and into these wild red cliffs that honestly looked painted on. The windows were huge — I kept pressing my forehead to the glass like a kid. There was this moment crossing the big bridge over SOB Canyon where everyone went quiet except for one guy who muttered “wow” under his breath. You could see straight down to the river curling below. I tried to snap a photo but mostly just stared; sometimes you forget to take pictures and maybe that’s better.

Appetizers came around (nothing fancy but good with a cold drink), and Tom pointed out where the ancient Sinagua people used to live — you could just make out some stone ruins clinging to the rocks if you squinted right. At one point someone spotted a bald eagle gliding overhead and half the car leaned over each other trying to get a look. The commentary about Perkinsville Ghost Town made me wish I’d paid more attention in history class; there’s something about hearing it while actually rumbling through those canyons that sticks more than reading it ever did.

Afterwards we poked around the John Bell Museum at the depot — old photos, rusted tools, stories about Jerome and Clarkdale that made me realize how much has happened along these tracks. I still think about that long tunnel we passed through, pitch black for a minute before bursting back into sunlit canyon walls. It’s not what I expected from Arizona at all — quieter somehow, with space to breathe.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Verde Canyon Railroad scenic train ride

• Visit John Bell Museum at depot
• Board vintage rail cars
• Enjoy 3.5-hour train journey
• View Verde River along route
• See SOB Canyon and tall bridge
• Hear Perkinsville Ghost Town history
• Return to depot

Top questions

How long is the Verde Canyon Railroad ride?

The train journey lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours round-trip.

Is food included on the Verde Canyon Railroad?

Yes, appetizers are served onboard and you receive a cafe voucher for use at the depot before departure.

Where does the Verde Canyon Railroad depart from?

The train departs from Clarkdale, Arizona.

Are there restrooms on board?

Yes, restrooms are available on board all train cars.

Is the Verde Canyon Railroad wheelchair accessible?

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

What wildlife might I see during the ride?

You may spot bald eagles, hawks, javelina, wild burros, jackrabbits and other canyon creatures during your trip.

Does my ticket include drinks?

Your ticket includes bottled water and a Champagne toast onboard.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants aged 0-1 may join but must sit on an adult's lap; children 1+ require their own ticket at adult rates.

What’s included

Your day includes luxury class seating aboard vintage railcars on the Verde Canyon Railroad with appetizers served onboard, bottled water throughout your journey, a Champagne toast as you ride past canyon views, plus a cafe voucher redeemable at least an hour before departure at the depot. Restrooms are available onboard for comfort during your scenic adventure.