Ride Through Arizona's Wintery Landscape On The Verde Canyon Railroad
Katie Lawrence
Author
Have you ever taken a winter train ride in Arizona? For over 100 years, the Verde Canyon Railroad has been the passenger train of choice for Arizonans everywhere. Traversing the high desert landscape filled with red rocks and dense foliage, the ride is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re a rail enthusiast, nature lover, or a little bit of both, you’ll adore the rich heritage and breathtaking scenery. There’s no such thing as a bad time to embark on this incredible journey, but climbing aboard in the winter offers an especially mesmerizing experience. Chugging along through the snow-covered forests and canyonlands, this scenic train ride in Arizona will rekindle your love for the state.
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Visit the website for Verde Canyon Railroad for more information or to book a ride. There is also a Facebook page for Verde Canyon Railroad.
Have you ever taken a winter train ride in Arizona on the Verde Canyon Railroad? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Tell us in the comments.
Looking for even more adventure? Check out what Viator offers for some inspiration.
The Verde Canyon Railroad isn’t the only gorgeous train ride here. Check out these other scenic train rides in Arizona
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More to Explore
Scenic Arizona
What are some other scenic train rides in Arizona?
The Verde Canyon train ride is great, but there are some other great scenic train rides in Arizona:
Superstition Scenic Narrow Gauge Railroad: Located in Goldfield, this is a nice and short 20-minute ride. You’ll head in and around Goldfield, which was a gold mining settlement that dates back to 1893. Take in the recreated mine and buildings with the astounding background of the Superstition Mountains.
Grand Canyon Railway: See the Grand Canyon and all its glorious surroundings via this three-hour train ride that leaves from Williams. Aside from the canyon itself, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of expansive forests and prairies.
What are some scenic towns in Arizona?
Spend a day or two touring and getting to know some scenic towns in Arizona:
Winslow: You might think you have never heard of this Navajo County town, but it’s actually featured in the 1972 song, “Take it Easy” by the Eagles. Head here to take in the Old Trail Museum and the First Street Pathway Park as well as some opportunities for shopping and dining.
Sedona: If you want to see an area with some of the most interesting surroundings, head to this spot located in the Upper Sonoran Desert. Come for the spiritual aspects like vortexes, explore the outdoors, or investigate UFOs. My favorite was the aptly named Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness. There are also some great cafes, accommodations, and galleries.
Are there any scenic drives in Arizona?
You’ve received a great suggestion for a winter train ride in Arizona in the article above. Now, get behind the wheel yourself and take some of these scenic drives in Arizona:
Apache Trail: This 39-mile-long National Scenic Byway starts at Goldfield Ghost Town and takes you to Tortilla Flat. Along the way, you’ll encounter expansive desert, mountain, and canyon scenes, three reservoirs, Canyon Lake, and plenty of places to stop and take it all in from outside the car.
Sky Island Scenic Byway: While only 27 miles long, this road takes you through two very distinct areas outside of Tucson. Go from the desert and Arizona’s signature saguaro cacti to the 9,157-foot-high Mount Lemmon and its fir trees and (depending on the time of year) even some snow! I found the significant change in scenery and temperature to be absolutely amazing.