Verde Canyon Railroad Near Sedona Arizona
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
Verde Canyon Railroad offers a scenic rail journey from Clarkdale, Arizona, through the remote red-rock landscape of Verde Canyon. The approximately 40-mile round trip travels north from Clarkdale to Perkinsville and back, following the Verde River through towering canyon walls, historic railroad country and wildlife habitat. Located about 25 miles from Sedona, the railroad provides one of the easiest ways to experience this otherwise difficult-to-access section of the Verde Valley.
- The Verde Canyon Journey
- Aboard The Train
- Railroad History
- Getting There
- Planning Your Visit
- Photo Gallery
- FAQ
The Journey Through Verde Canyon
© Verde Canyon RailroadThe train departs from the historic depot in Clarkdale and travels about 20 miles north through Verde Canyon before turning around near Perkinsville for the return trip. Much of the route follows the Verde River through a remote landscape of red-rock cliffs, riparian vegetation and historic railroad features. Along the way, passengers may see ancient ruins, old trestles, wildlife habitat and remnants of the mining and railroad history that shaped the Verde Valley.
The journey provides changing views of the Verde River, rugged red-rock formations and the canyon's riparian habitat. Wildlife sightings vary, but bald eagles, great blue herons, deer and other Arizona wildlife may be seen along the route. Historic highlights include railroad trestles, mining-era sites and a 734-foot man-made tunnel cut through solid rock more than a century ago.
Aboard The Verde Canyon Railroad
© Verde Canyon RailroadThe Verde Canyon Railroad combines climate-controlled indoor seating with access to adjoining open-air viewing cars. Current passenger accommodations feature living room-style seating with couches or cushioned bistro chairs, panoramic windows and onboard service. Passengers can move to the open-air cars for unobstructed canyon views, photography and commentary about the area's geology, history and wildlife. The complete excursion generally lasts between 3.5 and 4 hours, and advance reservations are strongly recommended because popular departures can sell out.
Verde Canyon Railroad History
The rail line through Verde Canyon was constructed in 1911 and 1912 as part of the transportation network serving the Verde Valley's copper industry. After decades of freight use, the Clarkdale Arizona Central Railroad acquired the line from the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in 1988. The first Verde Canyon Railroad passenger excursion departed from Clarkdale on November 23, 1990, beginning the scenic rail operation visitors enjoy today.
Getting To Verde Canyon Railroad
Verde Canyon Railroad departs from its Clarkdale depot at 300 North Broadway, Clarkdale, Arizona 86324. Clarkdale is in the Verde Valley about 25 miles from Sedona and is also convenient to Jerome and Cottonwood. Free parking is available at the railroad. Because check-in and departure times vary, confirm your scheduled departure and current driving directions before leaving for the depot.
Planning Your Verde Canyon Railroad Visit
Verde Canyon Railroad operates year-round with departure times and schedules that vary by date and season. Passengers remain aboard the train throughout the excursion, so plan for approximately four hours on the railroad in addition to time for check-in at the Clarkdale depot. The railroad recommends advance reservations because many departures sell out.
- Allow enough time: Plan on about 3.5 to 4 hours aboard the train plus check-in time before departure.
- Book ahead: Popular dates and seasonal excursions can sell out in advance.
- Bring a camera: Open-air viewing cars provide excellent opportunities for canyon, river and wildlife photography.
- Dress for the season: Indoor passenger cars are climate-controlled, but temperatures in the open-air cars vary throughout the year.
- Explore the Verde Valley: Consider combining the train ride with visits to nearby Clarkdale, Cottonwood, Jerome or Sedona.
More Verde Canyon Railroad Information
Verde Canyon Railroad Website
Blazin' M Ranch (Cottonwood AZ)
Verde Canyon Railroad Photo Gallery
Verde Canyon Railroad FAQ
How long is the Verde Canyon Railroad train ride?
The Verde Canyon Railroad excursion generally lasts between 3.5 and 4 hours. The train travels approximately 40 miles round trip from Clarkdale to Perkinsville and back.
Where does the Verde Canyon Railroad depart from?
Trains depart from the Verde Canyon Railroad depot at 300 North Broadway in Clarkdale, Arizona, in the Verde Valley near Cottonwood, Jerome and Sedona.
How far is the Verde Canyon Railroad from Sedona?
Clarkdale is approximately 25 miles from Sedona, making the railroad a popular day-trip attraction for visitors staying in the Sedona and Verde Valley area.
Do passengers get off the train during the trip?
No. Passengers remain aboard the train for the full journey from Clarkdale through Verde Canyon to Perkinsville and back.
Does the Verde Canyon Railroad have open-air viewing cars?
Yes. Passenger cars have access to adjoining open-air viewing cars that provide panoramic views and excellent opportunities for photography throughout the journey.
What can you see from the Verde Canyon Railroad?
The route features the Verde River, red-rock canyon walls, riparian habitat, historic trestles, a 734-foot man-made tunnel, ancient ruins and opportunities to see Arizona wildlife such as bald eagles, herons and deer.
Does the Verde Canyon Railroad operate year-round?
Yes. The railroad operates year-round, although departure days and times vary. Check the current railroad schedule when planning your visit.
Should Verde Canyon Railroad tickets be reserved in advance?
Yes. Advance reservations are strongly recommended because many departures can sell out, particularly during popular travel periods and special events.
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