Adventure Collective
Verde Canyon Explorer Rail Tour in Scottsdale, Arizona - Scottsdale

Verde Canyon Explorer Rail Tour in Scottsdale, Arizona

Scottsdaleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and seniors.

Overview

Discover Arizona’s breathtaking Verde Canyon from the comfort of a historic railcar. This scenic train tour offers stunning views, wildlife sightings, and rich history just a short drive from Scottsdale.

Surprise, Arizona

Verde Canyon Explorer with Rail Public Tour

12 Hours • All Ages • Montezuma Castle, Tuzigoot, Jerome and Verde Canyon Railroad

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About This Adventure

Native history, art and culture of the desert!

Duration

12 Hours

This includes transit time and complimentary pick up and drop off. Limited to the Scottsdale and Phoenix areas.

About

The tour is perfectly paced and desgined to make the most of every minute!

There is time built in to:

  • Explore the majestic Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot Native American monuments and see the handiwork of the local Sinagua tribe.
  • Learn about the mining history and walk around the old mining town of Jerome, Arizona.
  • Board the sightseeing train, The Verde Canyon Railroad for a 3.5 hour journey through Verde canyon.

Montezuma Castle: This site is one of the best preserved cave dwellings in North America. This is a National Monument of the sinagua people who lived between 1000 and 1425 A.D. Located in the beautiful verde valley, you can learn of how these interesting people lived and get get a scenic view of early stone and mortar masonry. (Duration 30 minutes)

Tuzigoot: This historic monument is the largest and best preserved pueblo ruins from the Sinagua people in the Verde valley. The pueblo has 110 rooms and was designated by Franklin D. Roosevelt as a national monument in 1939. The view of the Verde Valley is breathtaking and we will get a chance to walk around the monument and get plenty of photos. (Duration 30 minutes)

Jerome: This is one of Arizona's best kept secrets. Jerome, Arizona is rich in state history and mining. Founded in 1899 because of the rich copper deposits in the Black Hills, it served as one of the mining boomtowns of Arizona in the 1920's. Its spectacular view overlooks the neighboring Verde Valley with breathtaking red rock scenery to see for miles! We will spend some time enjoying walking around the local shops and enjoying the old Arizona mining town. (Duration 1.5 hours)

Verde Canyon Railroad: Journey through scenic verde canyon on the historic Arizona railroad. You will ride through Arizona's rich past of mining, prospecting and Native American culture. This over 3.5 hour ride is sure to delight the sense of adventure and exploration. You will be taken care of in luxurious first class where there is complimentary champaign and bottled water, as well as a light lunch bar of sandwiches and wings. (Duration is 3.5 hours).

What's Included

  • Lunch
  • Montezuma & Tuzigoot Admission
  • Redrock Viewpoints Admission
  • First Class Rail Ticket

Gratuities

  • Are not included in the tour price but are greatly appreciated!

Please Note

  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • Not wheelchair accessible

Adventure Tips

Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting

The train ride offers excellent opportunities to see eagles, deer, and other wildlife along the route.

Dress in layers

Temperatures can vary on the train, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the journey.

Arrive early for best seating

Early arrival ensures you get a window seat for the best views during the tour.

Use sun protection

Even though parts of the ride are shaded, sunscreen and hats are recommended for outdoor deck time.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald Eagles
  • Desert Bighorn Sheep

History

The rail line was originally built in the early 1900s to transport copper and timber, playing a significant role in the region’s development.

Conservation

The Verde Canyon area is part of an ongoing conservation effort aimed at preserving critical wildlife habitats and maintaining water quality in the Verde River.

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Adventure Hotspots in Scottsdale

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Binoculars

Essential

Enhance your wildlife and landscape viewing during the train ride.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adjust to changing temperatures on and off the train comfortably.

Sun Hat

Essential

Protect yourself from exposed sun, especially on outdoor decks.

spring|summer|fall specific

Camera

Capture the breathtaking landscapes and memorable moments.