A Colorful Crescendo in the Verde Canyon
Glorious fall foliage adds to the colorful intensity of Arizona scenery each fall, and nowhere do the
branches dazzle quite as brilliantly as they do along the Verde River. An adventure aboard Verde Canyon
Railroad’s Fall Colors Tour showcases the rich hues of scarlet and amber, crimson and gold further enhancing
the beauty of this red rock canyon in the heart of Arizona’s Sedona area. Train passengers savor the comforts
of classic rail travel and its exclusive panoramic vantage point to view the wilderness, breathe deep the
inimitable autumn air and enjoy time with family. In anticipation of the beauty provided by Mother Nature’s
seasonal display, first-class passengers celebrate with private-labeled wines, chocolate brownies and an
abundance of freshly-prepared appetizers. The harvest season bounty of on-board refreshments includes fan
favorites such as prickly pear margaritas and scrumptious fruit smoothies, adding extra relish to the adventure.
The deep summer greens along this rare desert river transform, changing the canopy of cottonwood,
sycamore, willow, mulberry and oak into a riot of color. Photographic opportunities abound at every curve of
the tracks. The first glimpse of brilliant vegetation arrives from below, as the train meanders along the canyon
rim, overlooking the River. As elevation increases, the railroad cuts deeper into the riparian ravine, bringing
passengers eye to eye with swaying tree tops near the Monocline Fold.
Further along the journey the crescendo of color builds as red sandstone walls and pinnacles reach
ever higher for the sapphire skies as the vibrant autumn foliage arches over the train’s path from the canyon
floor. Warmed by the languor of the late afternoon sun, the Verde Canyon’s hues begin to take on a dramatic
radiance perfect for photos and lifetime memories.
The peak of the fall colors in the Verde Canyon depends on temperature, sunlight, and rainfall
amounts. Timing can vary each year and can never be predicted exactly, however, passengers can generally be
assured of viewing brilliant colors October through Thanksgiving, with the colorful climax reaching its peak
during early November. Reservations should be made early, as this is a very popular time.
Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday in October Verde Canyon Railroad offers an added treat,
Ales on Rails. It’s a festive party on the patio where guests enjoy the option of a variety of hearty beers from
Southwestern craft breweries and an Oktoberfest-style luncheon. The party continues on the train, as the
copper, bronze and golden hues of the autumn are complemented by the rich amber lagers served aboard the
train.
Postcard-perfect scenery is only part of the magic of Verde Canyon Railroad. The train provides a
comfortable, yet exciting journey through this color palette as it travels a leisurely four hours from the
charming Clarkdale depot to the ghost ranch at Perkinsville and back. Awe-inspiring rock formations, historic
trestles, ancient cliff dwellings and soaring raptors are just a few of the trip’s many highlights. First-class cars
boast plush seating, complimentary appetizers and a full-service bar.
Coach offers vintage Pullman-style seating, panoramic windows and snack bars. Everyone has access to openair viewing cars offering 360-degree views and spectacular photographic opportunities.
Just 25 minutes from scenic Sedona and 10 minutes from historic Jerome, Verde Canyon Railroad is
located in the heart of Arizona’s Verde Valley, named one of Lonely Planet’s top 10 destinations.
Only two hours from Phoenix, Verde Canyon Railroad is the perfect Arizona day-trip, or if you plan to
stay over, ask about our Room, Ride and Meal packages. Reservations are accepted at 800.293.7245 or online
at VerdeCanyonRR.com.
It’s not the destination, it’s the breathtaking journey!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Teresa Propeck
Phone: 623-374-3185
tpropeck@verdecanyonrr.com
Consumer Information and Reservations:
800-293-7245
www.VerdeCanyonRR.com