Verde Canyon Railroad

The Basics

A ride aboard this restored vintage train takes passengers 20 miles (32 kilometers) from an historic train depot just outside Sedona to the ghost town of Perkinsville and back. Passengers can choose between coach or the more spacious first class, both of which have access to open-air viewing cars, where outdoor attendants provide insight into the canyon’s history, geology, and ecology. Once a month during the summer, the railroad offers a nighttime starlight excursion to allow passengers to see a different side of the high desert.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Verde Canyon Railroad is a must-do for families traveling with kids and history buffs.

• The round-trip ride lasts about four hours.

• The railroad is climate-controlled for a comfortable journey no matter the season.

• Some railroad cars are accessible to manual wheelchairs and are equipped with Americans with Disabilities–compliant (ADA) restrooms.

• Tickets often sell out, so book in advance to avoid disappointment.

How to Get There

The train depot is in Clarkdale, about 40 minutes outside Sedona or two hours from Phoenix. The easiest way to get there is to drive, and you’ll find parking across the street from the depot.

When to Get There

Climate-controlled indoor cars make the train a popular excursion throughout the year. Expect temperatures of around 90°F (32°C) (when enjoying the open-air cars) during the summer months or the occasional light dusting of snow in winter.

All Aboard for Wildlife Viewing

The train passes between the Prescott and Coconino national forests, affording plenty of opportunity for viewing some of Arizona’s 900 animal species. Keep your eyes open for great blue herons along the banks of the Verde River or bald eagles soaring above the train cars.

What time of year is best for the Verde Canyon Railroad?

Most visitors will say the best time of year to experience the Verde Canyon Railroad is fall—the cottonwoods and sycamores add jewel-esque tones of gold and amber to the blue-sky, red-rock experience. What’s more, temperatures are finally mild after summer’s heat, plus the railroad runs fun “Ales on Rails” and fall color tours.

What do you wear on the Verde Canyon Railroad?

What you wear on the Verde Canyon Railroad depends on the season you visit—and how much you plan to hang out in the open-air viewing car. The cars are climate-controlled and perfectly comfortable, but if you want outside viewing, wear clothing appropriate for the season. Some folks like to dress up for the experience, but it’s not required.

Do you need to book the Verde Canyon Railroad in advance?

Yes, you need to book Verde Canyon Railroad tickets in advance. Many trains sell out, a near guarantee on weekends, and you don’t want to risk showing up and being turned away. Book your tickets at least one month in advance to ensure room for you and your group.

What do you see on the Verde Canyon Railroad?

The train runs roughly 20 miles to the ghost town of Perkinsville. Along the way, you’ll experience Arizona’s “longest-running nature show,” full of high red-rock buttes, verdant ravines, high-desert flora, panoramic river views, and fantastic wildlife like bald eagles. It’s a great way to see this area’s natural beauty before the arrival of settlers.

Can you take food onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad?

No, you cannot take food onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad. The experience includes complimentary Southwest-inspired appetizers (fruits, cheeses, proteins, and dessert), plus an offered Champagne toast and bottled water. If you’re still hungry, additional, more robust food options are available at the Copper Spike Cafe in the train depot.

Is the Verde Canyon Railroad accessible?

Yes, the Verde Canyon Railroad is accessible, at least for wheelchairs. The railroad has wheelchair-accessible train cars (your wheelchair must be no wider than 24.5 inches), plus they can provide a manual wheelchair if needed. Most motorized chairs and scooters cannot be accommodated, as they exceed width and weight limits.

Ways to explore

Book your ticket in advance to guarantee your seat on this restored vintage train that takes passengers 20 miles (32 kilometers) from an historic train depot just outside Sedona to the ghost town of Perkinsville and back. Passengers can choose between the passenger coach or private caboose, both of which have access to open-air viewing cars, where outdoor attendants provide insight into the canyon’s history, geology, and ecology. Some tours pair time in the former ghost town of Jerome with a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad. During the summer, the railroad offers nighttime starlight excursions and wine rides on select Saturdays.

Accessibility

The train is accessible for users of manual wheelchairs less than 24.5 inches (62 centimeters) wide.

Age limits

There is no minimum age to ride; infants under 12 months old ride for free.

What to pack

Camera and battery pack, binoculars, hat, sunscreen

What to wear

Dress in layers as the passenger cars are air-conditioned while the open-sided viewing cars are not.

Not allowed

Outside food and beverages, large bags, strollers, infant car seats

Amenities

A welcome toast and charcuterie tray are included in each ticket, while additional drinks and snacks are available for purchase on board.

Address 

The train depot is located in Clarkdale, about 40 minutes outside Sedona or two hours from Phoenix. Round-trip rides on the Verde Canyon Railroad depart and return to this depot, which is easiest to reach by car.

Driving

Take Interstate 17 north from Phoenix to state highway 260 west to Clarkdale. From Sedona, take state highway 89A southwest to Clarkdale. There is free parking in the lot just opposite the depot.

Best times to visit

Train departure times vary by month and day, but most departures are at 1pm. Some Saturdays offer morning and afternoon departures.

Best days to visit

Evening and wine-tasting rides depart on select Saturdays, so check the schedule in advance for upcoming dates.

Best months to visit

The train runs all year long, though there are fewer departures in the hottest months of July and August. Spring and fall offer the most frequent departures.

Special events

Special themed rides and events are held on select dates year-round, including a Christmas train in the month of December and Uncorked Wine Festival trains in May.