Starlight Ride on Verde Canyon Railroad
About this activity
Highlights
- Breathtaking views of Verde Canyon's red rocks
- Experience Arizona's stunning desert landscape
- Enjoy a relaxing evening train ride
- Learn about local flora and fauna from guides
- Capture memorable sunset photos
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip train ride through Verde Canyon
- Open-air car access for panoramic views
- Live narration by knowledgeable guides
- Food and beverages (available for purchase)
Itinerary
Make your way to the Verde Canyon Railroad Train Depot in Clarkdale, Arizona, not far from Sedona, to begin your Verde Canyon Railroad Starlight adventure. This rail adventure offers a wilderness train ride through the remote Verde Canyon which is known for its picturesque setting and abundant wildlife. Though it’s possible to hike in the canyon, by far the easiest way to experience it is by riding this scenic wilderness train. The train is made up of exquisitely-renovated passenger coaches and open-air viewing cars pulled by vintage locomotives and travels a route along the Verde River between Clarkdale and Perkinsville. After embarking from the Clarkdale depot, sit back for a 4-hour, 40-mile round trip that includes views of historic mining sites, geological wonders, Sinagua Indian cliff dwellings and wildlife from bald eagles to antelope.
At the depot, be sure to visit the John Bell Museum, home to the railroad's history and artifacts from its early days, as well as a wealth of information on Clarkdale, Jerome and the Yavapai-Apache Nation.
Pass by: The train runs on the same tracks that were created following the Verde River back in 1911. The river is visible for most of your journey.
Pass by: SOB Canyon and the 150 ft tall bridge are highlights of the trip. Looking back from the bridge and down the canyon is simply gorgeous!
Pass by: Discover the history of Perkinsville Ghost Town through on-board commentary on your train journey. This is the turn-around point of your trip.
Pass by: You'll ride past Tuzigoot National Monument on your train journey.
Meeting point
Start Location
Verde Canyon Railroad, 300 N Broadway, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, USA
Important information
Know before you book
- Tours operate on select dates; check availability in advance.
- Children under 2 years old can ride free if seated on a parent's lap.
- Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard.
Know before you go
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
- Dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Infants Required On Laps
Good to know
- Infant age is 0-1 year. Any guest aged 1 and over will be charged an adult rate. Guests cannot board the train without a paid ticket
Traveler reviews
The train ride was...
The train ride was absolutely amazing. Lots of interesting history and Romn made the trip engaging and enjoyable. The train itself was beautiful, very comfortable seats. The views were captivating and pictures just don't capture what you see in person. The stars were out in force and the trip was worth every cent.
Historic AZ Train Ride
Beautiful vintage train ride with history of the men who built it. Arizona, the Copper State and how this railroad was used in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Still used today, the freightline transports cement when not used for passengers wanting to experience Verde Canyon and Verde River in a vintage train car! This was a great experience. Knowledgeable staff and great scenery. A Must when visiting Arizona.
Well done across the...
Well done across the board. Staff (Flagstaff train on June 27, 2026) was excellent. Really enhanced the experience.
It was epic and worth it....
It was epic and worth it. Great service and experience. Train was spotless and well served. Bartender was great.
Beautiful Verde River voyage.
The trip and the exposure to nature is wonderful. The food program that ‘s included is a disaster. Very wasteful and detracts from the trip. The guides on the train are not professional, but nice young men. Should have some system to separate those serious for information, and those just along for the ride.