The Verde Valley, for decades a renowned wine region, was recently officially designated as an American Viticulture Area (AVA). Savoring some of these wonderful wines prior to your scenic train ride adds a new dimension to the adventure. It’s a luxurious and educational way for everyone to experience this wildly scenic area. No hiking boots needed. Champagne and appetizers are served to every seat and no other train in the world gives every passenger “two seats for the price of one” – lush and comfortable interior cars in addition to access to adjoining open-air viewing cars, anytime during the ride.
Where else can one enjoy the notes of a well-balanced Merlot, or the train’s zesty signature cocktail; the prickly pear margarita, while savoring the awe-inspiring ever-changing scenery streaming past? An adventure aboard Verde Canyon Railroad is a meditation in motion, a rolling resort traveling through of the wild heart of Arizona.
During springtime in Arizona the WILD desert springs to life with cactus blooms and yucca flowers dancing in the breeze. Passengers on this popular excursion train are enthralled as the vintage engines roll past towering, crimson cliffs, near ancient Sinagua ruins, over old-fashioned trestles, and through a 734-foot manmade tunnel on a four-hour round trip to the whistlestop of Perkinsville Ranch and back. Expert narration leaves passengers with a sense of history, archaeology, geology, wildlife and the indigenous lore of the Verde Canyon.
Verde Canyon Railroad’s “Uncorked” WINE festival the entire month of May features a great sampling of wines from Arizona, Italy and South America at the depot’s patio beverage bar prior to the train’s 1:00pm departures and includes four taste tickets and a stemless souvenir wine glass. Uncorked tickets may be ordered in advance with the purchase of train tickets.
Towering red rock cliffs, dramatic river-carved curves, vintage restored rail cars, exceptional service, sensational scenery, wilderness, wonder and wine. Verde Canyon Railroad checks all the boxes for an amazingly authentic Arizona adventure.
For more information, visit www.verdecanyonrr.com or call (800) 293-7245
