Verde Canyon Railroad
A scenic 4-hour train ride through Arizona's stunning Verde Canyon, offering accessible wilderness and historical insights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, beautiful foliage
Verde Canyon Railroad
Best Time
Crisp air, beautiful foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 4-hour train ride through Arizona's stunning Verde Canyon, offering accessible wilderness and historical insights.
"This might be the most relaxing way to see the Red Rocks of Sedona! "
🎯 Arrive 30-60 Mins Early
No need to rush! Check in and explore the depot.
🥂 Snacks & Drinks Included
Enjoy a charcuterie box & drink with your ticket.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Verde Canyon Views
Along the 40-mile round-trip route
Experience breathtaking red rock canyons, lush vegetation, and the Verde River. Accessible only by train!
Open-Air Viewing Cars
Attached to passenger cars
Feel the breeze and get unobstructed panoramic views of the stunning Arizona landscape. Perfect for photos!
Historic Tunnel
Mid-route
Pass through a 734-foot tunnel carved in 1911, a testament to early engineering feats. A thrilling moment!
Wildlife Spotting
Along the Verde River
Keep an eye out for bald eagles, hawks, and other desert wildlife in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Peak Times
Dress for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive 30-60 Mins Early
No need to rush! Check in and explore the depot.
🥂 Snacks & Drinks Included
Enjoy a charcuterie box & drink with your ticket.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For exploring the depot and moving between cars.
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Capture the stunning red rock scenery and wildlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive 30-60 Mins Early
No need to rush! Check in and explore the depot.
🥂 Snacks & Drinks Included
Enjoy a charcuterie box & drink with your ticket.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
For exploring the depot and moving between cars.
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Capture the stunning red rock scenery and wildlife.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Climate-controlled cars, but open-air decks can be breezy.
👂 Listen to the Guides
Learn fascinating history and stories about the canyon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Verde Canyon Railroad for its breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable staff, and relaxing atmosphere. Many highlight the unique access to otherwise unreachable canyon landscapes and the enjoyable onboard amenities. While the price is noted as a significant investment, most feel the experience is well worth it for the memories created.
"Visiting from CA and Had a great time from start to finish. Arrived about one hour before boarding time. We had lunch before we boarded the train turkey sandwich was a very large portion sandwich, and good! And the chicken sandwich. We also got more snacks on the train so you will definitely not go hungry on this adventure , also plenty of drink options alcohol/non alcohol. Inside the train was nice and cool and you can go on the open cart too. Erick was very knowledgeable and we enjoyed all the history stories. Amazing views! A definite must when in AZ!"
Angela Morita
"I can't say enough to friends and family about our trip! My husband and I did the 4 hr scenic train for our 10 year anniversary weekend trip. It was amazing! Yes, the cost is over $100+/person... BUT they assign you to a table or couch area (depending on the size of your party) which is in a comfortable air conditioned train car. You get a yummy charcuterie style snack box, mini bottle of champagne or apple cider, water bottles. There's a shared open train car to go outside and see views. Staff are super friendly and full of information. Menu is available for other drink/snack purchases. The strawberry smoothie was delicious! The only complaint is the speaker volume is so low compared to how loud the train can be outside. No need to get there super early, we arrived like 30 minutes before departure to check in."
Naomi Cockburn
"Relaxing, a lot of fun. Great people and staff. Food excellent. Shea and Timmy were awesome we couldn't have had better guides. They made our experience an awesome one. Definitely coming back for more train adventures. Can't wait to go on the wine and star gazing ride(21+on that) we took a family ride with our 3 kids it was awesome. Thank you ALL at Verde Canyon Railroad for a great memory, you all made this the best ever, from the ticket salesperson, the gift shop staff, the kitchen staff, the train staff and the conductors."
Brandi Sealy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Verde Canyon Railroad is located in Clarkdale, AZ, about a 25-30 minute drive from Sedona. You can drive your own vehicle or arrange for transportation. Many visitors find it a convenient day trip from Sedona.
Yes, ample parking is available at the depot in Clarkdale. It's recommended to arrive about 30-60 minutes before departure to allow time for parking and check-in.
Public transportation options directly to the Verde Canyon Railroad depot are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient method. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
The closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the Verde Canyon Railroad.
The Verde Canyon Railroad is generally accessible, with accessible seating options available. It's advisable to contact them directly when booking to discuss specific needs and ensure a comfortable experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Verde Canyon Railroad typically start around $139 per person for standard seating, with potential variations for special events or premium packages. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and availability.
You can purchase Verde Canyon Railroad tickets directly from their official website or through authorized third-party booking platforms like GetYourGuide. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular dates. +1
Discounts for the Verde Canyon Railroad are not always readily available. While some special promotions or packages might exist, it's uncommon to find standard discounts like AAA or Groupon. It's always worth checking their website for any current offers.
Standard tickets typically include a scenic 4-hour round-trip journey, a charcuterie-style snack box, and a mini bottle of champagne or sparkling cider. Additional food and beverages are available for purchase.
The Verde Canyon Railroad operates on a schedule with multiple departures daily, varying by season. It's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date schedule and book your tickets accordingly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Verde Canyon Railroad offers a 4-hour round-trip journey, covering approximately 40 miles through the scenic Verde Canyon.
Seating options include comfortable indoor cars with panoramic windows and spacious lounge-style seating, as well as open-air viewing cars for a more immersive experience.
Yes, you can move between the climate-controlled passenger cars and the open-air viewing cars during the journey. This allows for different perspectives and photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The Verde Canyon Railroad is a fantastic experience for families. Kids often enjoy the train ride, spotting wildlife, and the novelty of the journey.
The Haunted Train Experience is a special Halloween event where the train is transformed into a spooky attraction with a haunted house railcar. It's typically offered on select nights in October.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, a charcuterie-style snack box with assorted meats, cheeses, and fruits is included with standard tickets. Additional food and beverages are available for purchase onboard.
Yes, alcoholic beverages, including champagne and other drinks, are available for purchase on the Verde Canyon Railroad.
There is a café at the depot where you can purchase meals and snacks before or after your train ride.
While snacks are included, it's generally best to check the specific policy regarding outside food and beverages. However, the onboard offerings are usually sufficient for the 4-hour trip.
The included snack box typically features a selection of meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruits, offering a pleasant grazing experience during the ride.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air viewing cars offer unobstructed panoramic views, making them ideal for photography. The historic tunnel and the diverse landscapes along the route also provide excellent photo opportunities.
While the train moves, capturing clear photos is possible, especially from the open-air cars. Be mindful of the train's movement and consider using a faster shutter speed.
Yes, you can take photos inside the climate-controlled passenger cars. However, the views might be slightly obstructed by windows compared to the open-air cars.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
The 'Twilight Train' during sunset offers beautiful golden hour lighting, perfect for dramatic canyon shots. Morning rides also provide good light and potentially fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The included champagne or sparkling cider adds a touch of celebration. +1 Consider booking seats in a more intimate setting or enjoying the open-air cars together for stunning views. The 4-hour duration allows for quality time without being overly long. +1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The historic tunnel and potential wildlife sightings, like bald eagles, offer unique subjects. Remember to bring a camera with a good zoom and consider a faster shutter speed to account for the train's movement.🏞️ Nature & Wildlife Lovers
The open-air cars allow for an immersive experience, letting you feel connected to the natural environment. The guides often point out interesting flora and fauna, enhancing the appreciation for the canyon's biodiversity. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Verde Canyon Railroad Experience
Passengers can choose between comfortable, climate-controlled passenger cars with panoramic windows or the exhilarating open-air viewing cars.
+1 The open-air cars are a favorite for photographers and those who want to feel the desert breeze and truly immerse themselves in the scenery. The knowledgeable guides on board share fascinating stories about the canyon's history, geology, and wildlife, enhancing the overall experience. Beyond the standard scenic ride, the Verde Canyon Railroad also offers special themed excursions throughout the year. These can include a 'Twilight Train' for sunset and stargazing, a 'Magical Christmas Journey' to the North Pole, and even a 'Haunted Train Experience' around Halloween.
+1 These special events add an extra layer of magic and make the railroad a year-round destination. Whether you're seeking a relaxing escape, a family adventure, or a romantic date, the Verde Canyon Railroad promises an unforgettable Arizona experience. +1History and Engineering Marvels
The railroad was originally built to serve the copper mines in Jerome and later played a role in transporting supplies and passengers. Today, it operates as a heritage railway, preserving the history and offering a unique glimpse into the past.
+1 The guides often share stories about the early settlers, the indigenous peoples who inhabited the area, and the challenges of building a railway through such rugged terrain. Passengers might even have the chance to hear firsthand accounts from descendants of families who lived and worked in the canyon for generations, as one reviewer mentioned hearing from a member of the original Alvarez family.
Seasonal and Special Events
For the holiday season, the 'Magical Christmas Journey' is a highly anticipated event. Passengers ride to the 'North Pole,' meet Santa Claus, and can explore a festive Christmas Village at the depot.
This event transforms the train into a winter wonderland, offering a magical experience for families and festive travelers.In October, the railroad hosts a 'Haunted Train Experience,' turning the train into a spooky adventure for Halloween.
These themed rides provide diverse reasons to visit the Verde Canyon Railroad at different times of the year, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to discover.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit