Adventure Collective
Verde Canyon Explorer with Rail Tour in Scottsdale, AZ - Phoenix

Verde Canyon Explorer with Rail Tour in Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdaleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience involves comfortable seated travel with occasional walking at stops.

Overview

Discover Arizona’s stunning Verde Canyon on a private rail tour with Wandering Heart Adventures. Enjoy breathtaking views, rich history, and close encounters with wildlife on this unique outdoor experience.

Surprise, Arizona

Verde Canyon Explorer with Rail Private Tour

12 Hours • All Ages • 6 Person Minimum • 12 Person Maximum

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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 This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Adventure Tips

Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting

The railcar offers great views, but binoculars will help you see distant wildlife like eagles and deer more clearly.

Wear sun protection

Arizona sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses even if the ride is shaded.

Stay hydrated

Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, to stay comfortable throughout the tour.

Dress in layers for changing temperatures

Temperatures can vary from early morning chill to afternoon warmth, so layered clothing is advisable.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald Eagles
  • Mule Deer

History

The Verde Canyon rail line was originally built in the early 20th century to transport copper and other minerals from Arizona’s mines.

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to preserve the natural habitat along the Verde River corridor, balancing tourism with protecting native plants and wildlife.

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Adventure Hotspots in Phoenix

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Binoculars

Essential

Enhances your ability to see distant wildlife and landscape details from the train.

Sun Hat

Essential

Provides protection from the strong Arizona sun during the warmer months.

spring specific

Light Jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler mornings and evenings throughout the tour.

fall specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the dry Arizona climate.