Sedona, AZ: Autumn's changing leaves add new color to many parts of Arizona each fall, but nowhere do the branches blaze quite as brilliantly as they do along the Verde River. Travelers from around the world participate in the Verde Canyon Railroad Fall Colors Tour to view the striking blending of scarlet and amber, crimson and gold. Photo opportunities are endless. It’s no wonder that visitors fall again for this old flame – the Fall Colors Tour.
Autumn’s harvest brings short, pleasant days and the crisp, cool nights are credited for the ripening of berries and fruits, as well as the changing of the colors of the leaves in the Verde Canyon. Shades of yellow to orange and red to purple begin to surface among the cottonwood, sycamore, elder, mulberry and oak.
To further enhance the experience for the many passengers wanting to see this colorific canyon, the Verde Canyon Railroad has some terrific celebrations and events. Ales on Rails means a party on the depot’s patio every Saturday and Sunday in October prior to boarding. The Verde Canyon Railroad has invited a choice selection of Southwestern breweries to purvey their best beers at the depot prior to departure and onboard the train during the excursion. Locally brewed ales served on the covered picnic patio are accompanied by traditional Oktoberfest favorites like sausages, strudels, and pretzels. A live band on the platform will delight all with the rousing sounds of celebratory music. The revelry will continue after boarding time, when the train begins cruising at a gentle 12 mph pace up the canyon.
October ends with the spooky Haunted Halloween Express. Passengers are encouraged to dress up and win prizes. Visitors may see the Wicked Witch of the West handing out train tickets, or a mad scientist greeting guests with soda and snacks. Watch out for the Bride of Frankenstein as she points out rock formations from the open-air viewing car during the train journey that boasts more treats than tricks.
A ride on Verde Canyon Railroad’s historic route from Clarkdale to the ghost ranch of Perkinsville and back –through Arizona’s other grand canyon—is truly an unforgettable experience.
The Verde Canyon Railroad is located at 300 N. Broadway, in Clarkdale. Ideally situated below the cold of the mountains and above the heat of the desert, the train depot is 25 minutes from Sedona, two hours north of Phoenix, and one and one-half hours south of Flagstaff.
To see Mother Nature’s timeless artistry and the prolific Verde Canyon ecosystem firsthand, call 1-800-293-7245, or visit the Railroad’s website at www.verdecanyonrr.com.
It’s not the destination; it’s the journey!
Article courtesy of Teresa Propeck.
Posted October 13, 2008.
