The Distance Traveled is 20 Miles
The Time Traveled is 100 Years
Clarkdale, AZ – Verde Canyon Railroad’s historic train takes passengers on a
20-mile journey through a remarkable wilderness area of Arizona but the time
traveled is actually 100 years. Turning
100 years old is a momentous landmark worth celebrating in style, and Verde
Canyon Railroad does everything in style.
Join the Railroad in celebrating the birth of their rail line 100 years ago. On Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February
12, Verde Canyon Railroad will share the Centennial spotlight with the State of
Arizona and Town of Clarkdale. Our Centennial
Celebration, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., is free to the public. The Centennial train departs at a special
time of 2 p.m. on February 11 and 12, and requires a ticket purchase.
Verde Canyon Railroad’s knowledgeable staff will take visitors on a
complimentary 20-minute tour of their vintage engines, only two of 10 remaining
in North America; through the mid-last century passenger cars which once linked
America coast to coast, and on a tour of the John Bell Museum which highlights
the Railroad’s storied past.
New to the depot is the special event’s tent, where free exhibitions
celebrating the Verde Valley will be on display. Agriculture, history, wildlife conservation
and Native American cultures will be represented. Area attractions also will showcase their
properties. Artisans and entertainers will round out the morning venue, along
with breakfast and lunch options accompanied by the Railroad’s specialty drinks.
After spending a morning at the Centennial Celebration, plan to keep the
birthday party rolling onboard the train.
A handful of railroads crisscross the West, but none deliver the
complete package of untamed scenery and luxurious comfort one rail at a
time. Western hospitality abounds as you
settle into a comfortable seat on one of the deluxe coaches, and the ambience
of the Southwest surrounds you when you meander out onto an open-air viewing
car for a spectacular view from a 100-year-old vantage point.
The Verde Canyon Railroad is proud to have carried well over one million
passengers since that first departure in 1990. We look forward to sharing this
rare, awe-inspiring experience with millions more for years to come because
it’s always a good day when you’re on a train.
