Verde Canyon Railroad

ong touted as Arizona's longest running nature show, a trip on the Verde Canyon Railroad is an experience not to be missed. The four-hour scenic ride along the Verde Canyon, aptly considered by many as Arizona's other Grand Canyon, takes you from past centuries, through wildlife to a working ranch of today.

The railroad was originally built to haul copper ore from the mining town at Jerome to the Clarkdale smelter. We are reminded of this, not only by the 40-acre man-made mountain and old power plant at the start of the journey, but by the malachite ore which has stained green the slopes of the surrounding mountains.

The train has panoramic windows, which ensure you don't miss out on any of the many wonderful things pointed out by the train's colorful narrator. And for those passengers wishing to indulge all of their senses, try a ride in an open-air car. The moderate temperatures of the Verde Canyon make this luxury available in all seasons.

Before entering the Verde Canyon, a series of cliff dwellings shaped by the Sinagua Indians in the 12th century provide a startling insight into the past. Passengers then enjoy the clear waters of the Verde River, the canyons lifegiver, and any deer and javelina that may be drinking at the water's edge. Other highlights include bald and golden eagles, re-tailed hawks and a wide variety of ducks.

The train ride then rumbles through a 680-foot man-made tunnel before emerging in canopies of cottonwoods and the familiar red-rock cliffs. Culminating at the still-working Perkins ranch, the diesel engine switches from one end of the train to the other for the return journey. Passengers are again given the opportunity to view any of the natural wonders they may have missed on the trip out.

Disembarking back at Jerome, passengers will reflect that, as there was no destination, the journey was definitely worthwhile.

Book your Verde Canyon train ride at Sedona Real Inn & Suites.