Verde Canyon Railroad

The Verde Canyon Railroad is one of the Southwest's great scenic train rides and the best way to see a canyon you otherwise could not reach. Departing from the historic depot in Clarkdale, about 40 minutes from Sedona near Cottonwood, the train travels 20 miles north along the Verde River to the old ranch stop at Perkinsville and back — a 40-mile round trip of about three and a half to four hours, with guests staying on board throughout. The route follows a line built in the early 1900s to serve the copper smelter at Clarkdale and the mines of Jerome, and it winds through a canyon with no road access: red rock cliffs, cottonwood-lined river bends, century-old trestles and bridges, a tunnel, and views into the wilderness of Sycamore Canyon, with wildlife including eagles, hawks and herons. The railroad's seating has evolved into an all-premium experience: climate-controlled indoor cars with living-room-style couches and bistro tables for two, and a caboose for private parties, all connected to open-air viewing cars where you can stand in the breeze and take photographs. Every ticket includes a charcuterie box and a champagne or sparkling cider toast, a bar serves drinks on board, and the depot's Copper Spike Café serves food before departure. The standard departure is in the early afternoon, morning trains run on Saturdays through the end of 2026, and special trains include the Magical Christmas Journey in the holiday season. Fares vary by date and season, and free parking is available across from the depot. Pets are not allowed, motorized wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated, and manual wheelchair users should book an accessible car and arrive early.

The railroad's history is the Verde Valley's history. Copper baron William A. Clark built the smelter town of Clarkdale and the rail line to haul ore and supplies in the early 20th century, when Jerome, perched on the mountain above, was one of the richest copper camps in the West. When the mines closed, the line carried freight for decades; in 1990 it reopened as a scenic excursion, and it has since become one of Arizona's most popular attractions. The train's narration covers the canyon's geology, its ancient Sinagua ruins visible from the track, and the ranching history of Perkinsville.

When to ride. Each season has its appeal. Fall brings golden cottonwoods along the river, typically peaking in late October and early November. Winter is eagle season, when eagles are often spotted along the canyon, and the low sun lights the red cliffs beautifully. Spring brings wildflowers and green river banks, and summer offers lush scenery but hot afternoons, so the climate-controlled cars and morning trains come into their own. Special departures, from holiday trains to tasting rides, run on select dates. Book ahead for holidays, fall weekends and the Christmas train, which sell out.

Making a day of it. Clarkdale is minutes from Old Town Cottonwood, with its tasting rooms and restaurants, and from Tuzigoot National Monument, whose hilltop pueblo you can see from near the depot. Jerome, the former mining town clinging to Cleopatra Hill, is a short, winding drive above, with galleries, wine rooms and the Jerome State Historic Park in the 1916 Douglas Mansion. Check in at least 15 minutes before departure — the standard departure is early afternoon — and bring layers for the open-air cars, sunglasses, and a camera with a zoom for wildlife. The ride is gentle and suits all ages, and the charcuterie and toast make it a natural celebration outing for couples and families alike.