Sedona, AZ: While urban areas sizzle in the Arizona summertime, passengers aboard Verde Canyon Railroad’s Friday and Saturday evening trains may enjoy the fresh, high desert breezes as the train passes through a nocturnal wonderland. It’s a great summer adventure aboard the “Saturday Starlight” trains beginning on June 14, and continuing through September 13, while the ever-popular “Grape Train Escapes” (offering wine-tasting) run on select Fridays beginning June 6.
Evening departures are magical. Cares fade as temperatures dramatically drop with the dwindling daylight. The setting sun paints the towering red rock cliffs with dramatic shadows, making for unique photo opportunities. Even the novice shutterbug can be sure of stunning mementoes.
As the sun sets area wildlife awakens, heading for the cool waters of the Verde River for a refreshing sunset drink. Passengers riding in first-class quench their thirst with margaritas and other top-shelf offerings. For the exclusive “Grape Train Escape,” fine wine is the libation of choice, accompanied by delectable finger foods, specially prepared to enhance the wine.
The lush hues of the cottonwood and sycamore canopies compete for fading rays. The river sparkles like a gem-encrusted necklace beneath the verdant boughs. The great blue heron takes advantage of the long shadows, gliding invisibly and noiselessly above unsuspecting fish.
Evening light lingers at the Perkinsville turn-around, assuring excursioneers the full effect of the incredible natural wonder of the Verde Canyon in the last light of day.
The return journey beckons passengers to the open-air viewing cars to capture the gentle twilight zephyrs of the high desert. Shadows give way to night, and stars steal the imagination as they have since ancient civilizations inhabited this canyon. During the journey, the moon beam’s it’s blessing on the tracks. The gyrating headlamp of the FP-7 engine plays against the monolithic canyon walls.
