The Verde Canyon Railroad: The Perfect Prescott Day Trip
Living in Prescott, we’re always on the lookout for local adventures that are easily accessible and family-friendly. The Verde Canyon Railroad, just an hour and a half drive from Prescott, fit the bill perfectly. It’s an easy day trip, ideal for families who want to explore more of what Arizona has to offer without spending hours in the car. As we set out on the scenic drive through the high desert, the anticipation in our car was palpable. The kids were excited for their first train ride, and we were eager to see the famed Verde Canyon and learn more about the area’s history.
Our journey began in the quaint town of Clarkdale, which sits quietly in the shadow of Jerome—a place we’ve visited and loved for years. There’s something about Jerome’s history, with its wild-west vibe and mining past, that has always captivated us, so it was fascinating to learn that the very railroad we were about to board played a pivotal role in Jerome’s development. The Verde Canyon Railroad was originally constructed in the early 1900s to support the booming mining industry, transporting ore from the remote mines down to the smelters and beyond. Today, it’s been beautifully restored and repurposed as a scenic railway, allowing passengers to experience Arizona’s rugged beauty and rich history in a unique way.
From the moment we stepped onto the meticulously refurbished train cars, we felt transported to another era. The train, with its vintage charm and modern amenities, offered the perfect blend of comfort and nostalgia. The interiors featured climate control, plush seating, and thoughtful décor that evoked the golden age of rail travel. As we settled in for the four-hour, 20-mile journey through the Verde Canyon, we couldn’t help but appreciate the contrast between the leisurely pace of the train and the fast-paced world we had left behind for the day.
Knowing we had a long day ahead, we made sure to arrive early. We weren’t entirely sure how the food situation worked on the train, so we stopped at a café in the train station for a breakfast burrito. The burritos turned out to be unnecessary as we later discovered that the train offers a complimentary charcuterie board, along with a selection of drinks and snacks for purchase. Side note: They make a decent breakfast burrito and a heck of a Bloody Mary! It’s also worth noting that if you’re visiting during the warmer months like we did, arriving early to snag a shady spot while waiting for the train to board is a must—the Arizona sun can be unforgiving.
Once we were onboard, the kids’ excitement reached new heights. Ensley, Luke, and Kalia could hardly contain their joy as the train began its slow chug along the tracks, especially when we moved to the open-air cars. The views were nothing short of spectacular—towering red rock cliffs, lush greenery, and the winding Verde River below. It was like stepping into a postcard, with every turn offering a new perspective on Arizona’s natural beauty. The kids were mesmerized by the scenery, pointing out everything they saw and asking a million questions. In today's world of constant scrolling and screens, it was refreshing to shut our electronics down for a few hours and just enjoy the scenery and each other's company.
The staff onboard were nothing short of amazing. From the moment we arrived, they were friendly, informative, and eager to share their knowledge about the area’s history and natural features. On the observation deck, they pointed out landmarks, wildlife, and interesting geological formations, making the ride not just a visual treat but also an educational experience. The kids loved hearing stories about the history of the railroad and the surrounding area, and it was clear that the staff’s enthusiasm made the trip even more enjoyable for everyone.
As parents, we were thrilled to see how much fun the kids were having, but we also appreciated the chance to relax and enjoy the ride ourselves. The gentle rocking of the train combined with the stunning scenery created a peaceful atmosphere that was perfect for unwinding. In fact, Dad even managed to sneak in a thirty-minute nap—a rare and much-needed break in the midst of all the excitement! It was a reminder of just how much fun it can be to slow life down for a few hours.
Looking ahead, the Verde Canyon Railroad has several exciting events lined up that promise to enhance the experience for future passengers. One of the most magical events is The Magical Christmas Journey™, which transports families to the North Pole. This event, starting at the Clarkdale depot, is a true celebration of the holiday season. The depot is adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a winter wonderland that captivates both children and adults. Santa’s elves entertain guests with tales of Princess Noel and Flurry the Christmas Eagle, adding to the enchantment of the experience. The journey itself, a one-hour round-trip, takes passengers through a mystical tunnel, emerging onto "Santa’s private tracks," where the North Pole comes to life. Onboard, the holiday spirit continues with decorated cars, entertaining elves, and a visit from Santa, who spends time with each child. The lead-up to the journey is filled with fun activities for kids, including joining the Magical Journey VIP Kids’ Club™, receiving letters from Santa, and participating in festive games and crafts. This event is a must for families looking to create lasting holiday memories.
For those who enjoy a tasty beer, Ales on Rails is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of autumn. Starting on September 17 and running through October 31, this event is Verde Canyon Railroad’s nod to Oktoberfest. Guests can enjoy a variety of Arizona craft beers while taking in the beautiful fall scenery of the Verde Canyon. The festival atmosphere makes it a great outing for dads or anyone looking to toast the season in style. With local brews on tap and crisp autumn air, Ales on Rails offers a fun and flavorful way to bid farewell to summer.
Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Uncorked Wine Festival at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot. This event, perfect for a date or a trip with friends, allows guests to sip and savor fine wines before embarking on their train journey through the red rock canyon. The Uncorked Wine Festival is an extension of the popular Grape Train Escape, offering daily wine tastings throughout May. Guests can sample a wide range of wines, from bold reds to delicate rosés, paired with chocolate and other treats. The festival atmosphere is enhanced by the beautiful outdoor setting, where visitors can enjoy their tastings before boarding the train. Pre-purchase tickets to include wine tasting, lunch, and a souvenir glass, and get ready to sip, savor, and enjoy a truly unique experience.
As the train ride came to an end, we realized how much we had enjoyed our time on the Verde Canyon Railroad. It wasn’t just a fun day out—it was a chance to connect as a family, to learn about Arizona’s rich history, and to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us. For those of us living in Prescott, the Verde Canyon Railroad is a gem that’s just a short drive away, making it an easy and rewarding day trip (the kids slept the whole trip home!). Whether you’re a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor wanting to experience something unique, we highly recommend booking a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Just be sure to plan ahead—excursions sell out quickly, and it’s an experience you definitely don’t want to miss.
