The Verde Canyon Railroad says "It´s not the destination. It´s the journey." and I totally agree.  Celebrating 60 years of sharing the beauty of the Verde Canyon with its visitors, the journey is worth the fare in any season.

Reservations are highly recommended since the train is very popular.

Clarkdale and the Verde Canyon Railroad

The train depot is just a short roadtrip from Phoenix, located an hour and a half north of the city, in the town of Clarkdale.  The railroad was built by the United Verde Copper Company of Jerome in 1911-12 to transport goods from the town to Drake and Perkinsville.  Clarkdale itself was founded in 1912 as the company smelter town by the mine owner, William Clark.  The mine and smelter were the main industry in the area until 1953, when they were closed.

The four hour train ride leisurely winds its way from Clarkdale to the Perkinsville ghost ranch through the beautiful Verde Canyon.  The ride out offers almost unlimited opportunites for spectacular photos.  The ride back to Clarkdale is made at a much quicker pace which makes it more difficult to get quality pictures of the scenery as it passes by.

The Red Rocks of the Verde Canyon

Due to its proximity to Sedona, the canyon shares the same stunning red coloured rock.  During the tour, your guide will point out many interesting rock formations, wildlife and native fauna.  The open air viewing cars have plenty of seating are perfect for taking photos.

Can you spot Richard Nixon´s profile in the photo above?

This rock profile is a dead ringer for Abraham Lincoln.

Whatever season you choose to take a ride, I´m sure that you will love the Verde Canyon. If you are up for it, you can easily add a visit to Sedona or Jerome (both of which are a short drive from Clarkdale) to complete your itinerary.