Arizona Easter Train Rides: A Complete Guide
Published: March 6, 2025
By: Adam Burns
With its diverse landscapes ranging from expansive deserts to forested mountains, Arizona offers some of the most stunning backdrops for scenic train rides. During the Easter season, many of these experiences are enhanced with special themes and festivities, making for unforgettable family adventures.
Currently, there is one location in the state that hosts an official Easter-themed train ride, the popular Verde Canyon Railroad based in Clarkdale.
Verde Canyon Railroad
Easter Event
One of the most famous scenic train rides in Arizona, the Verde Canyon Railroad offers a memorable journey through the state’s red rock country. The Easter Bunny Express is a special seasonal ride designed for families and children.
This ride is hosted every Easter Weekend that includes a 4-hour trip and treats for the children. There is also a unique twist to the event, a jelly-bean-counting contest where the Easter Bunny announces the winner.
Route and Scenery
The train departs from Clarkdale, winding its way through the stunning Verde Valley. Passengers can enjoy views of the red rock formations, native desert flora, and wildlife like bald eagles and deer. The Verde River adds a lush contrast to the arid landscape.
Amenities
Passengers can relish comfortable seating in climate-controlled, vintage rail cars with large panoramic windows, allowing them to take in the breathtaking scenery. The train also features open-air viewing.
Railroad Overview
The Verde Canyon Railroad offers a picturesque journey through the heart of Arizona's wild and rugged countryside, providing passengers with a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a touch of luxury. Nestled in the town of Clarkdale, this passenger train service allows visitors to experience the untamed splendor of the Verde Valley, a region steeped in the lore of the Old West and replete with stunning geological formations.
Departing from the historic depot in Clarkdale, the train embarks on a four-hour, round-trip adventure that covers 20 miles of breathtaking terrain. As travelers settle into vintage rail cars, the train winds through the Verde Canyon, an awe-inspiring gorge carved by the Verde River.
Along the route, passengers are treated to views of towering red rock buttes, verdant vegetation, and diverse wildlife that call the canyon home. Celebrated for its ecological richness, the region is a sanctuary for bald eagles, which can often be seen soaring overhead.
With a history that stretches back to the early 20th century, the line was originally built to service the copper mines in Jerome, Arizona. The rails were laid down by the Santa Fe, Prescott & Phoenix Railway between 1911 and 1912 (a Santa Fe Railroad subsidiary), and they played a vital role in transporting ore from the bustling mining town.
Although the mining industry has since faded, the Verde Canyon Railroad has found new life as a leisure service, allowing passengers to explore this once-industrial corridor from a different perspective.
The train itself is a sight to behold, featuring meticulously restored mid-century passenger cars that exude luxury and comfort. The interior of these cars harks back to the golden age of rail travel, with plush seating, panoramic windows, and elegant vintage décor.
For those seeking an elevated experience, the first-class cars offer additional amenities such as access to a private car attendant, complimentary appetizers, and a full-service bar.
One of the highlights of the journey is the Perkinsville ghost ranch, a historic site along the route. This small, once-thriving settlement offers a glimpse into the past, with its dilapidated buildings standing as a testament to the region's mining history. The train pauses here, allowing passengers to take in the stark beauty of the Arizona landscape before continuing the adventure.
Throughout the ride, knowledgeable attendants provide commentary on the geological, ecological, and historical aspects of the canyon, enriching the journey with tales of the area's storied past. Passengers are encouraged to step out onto open-air observation cars, where they can feel the wind in their hair and savor the unobstructed views that have made the Verde Canyon Railroad a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
In essence, the Verde Canyon offers more than just a train ride; it promises a delightful escape into nature, complete with the enchantment of bygone days. Whether drawn by the stunning vistas or the allure of historical exploration, passengers of all ages find something to captivate their imaginations during this unforgettable experience. With its combination of scenic wonder, luxury, and rich history, the railroad remains a cherished highlight of Arizona tourism.
Tips for Travelers
Book in Advance: Seasonal train rides, especially themed ones with limited services like Easter specials, tend to fill up quickly. Make sure to book tickets well in advance.
Dress Comfortably: It’s essential to wear comfortable clothing and bring layers, as temperatures can vary greatly in Arizona during spring.
Explore Surrounding Attractions: Complement your train experience by exploring nearby attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rocks, or local museums.
Pack Essentials: Consider bringing hats, sunglasses, snacks, and cameras to capture the beauty and memories along the way.
Arizona provides an exceptional backdrop for scenic train rides, with Easter being a particularly special time to embark on one of these journeys. Whether it's the majestic passage through red rock landscapes or a trip through pine forests leading to the Grand Canyon, these experiences create lasting memories for families looking to celebrate the holiday in a unique and picturesque way.
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