Verde Canyon Railroad: A Scenic Fall Train Ride Near Cottonwood, Arizona

Jeff Raible

2 days ago

3 min read

There are some experiences that are more than simply "things to do." They are experiences you remember.

For us at Origins Bed & Breakfast, the Verde Canyon Railroad is one of those experiences—and fall may be one of the most beautiful times of year to take the journey.

Located just a short drive from Cottonwood in nearby Clarkdale, the railroad takes passengers deep into the Verde Canyon on a scenic 40-mile, four-hour round trip. The train follows the Verde River through towering red-rock cliffs, rugged wilderness and one of Arizona's most beautiful riparian corridors.

And when autumn arrives, the scenery becomes especially magical.

Fall transforms Verde Canyon

Arizona may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about fall color. But the Verde Canyon can surprise you. As the temperatures cool, the canyon's green foliage begins changing into shades of gold, amber, ginger and russet, creating a striking contrast against the canyon's red-rock walls.

The railroad notes that its Fall Color Tours typically run from late October through late November.

It is the kind of scenery that makes you want to put your phone down for a while. The train offers comfortable indoor seating as well as access to adjoining open-air viewing cars, giving passengers the opportunity to step outside and experience the canyon from a completely different perspective.

Ales on Rails: Fall arrives with a little extra fun

If you enjoy combining scenery with a little local flavor, take a ride on the Ales on Rails, which runs September 13 through October 31. The experience begins at the depot with Arizona craft beers before passengers board the train for the four-hour canyon journey.

Want to see Santa?

Experience a magical Christmas journey aboard Verde Canyon Railroad’s holiday train! Head to the North Pole for a visit with Santa, November 27th through December 24th. The Magical Christmas Journey® is based on the storybook, and the tale includes Princess Noel (a kind-hearted girl who transforms into a princess), Flurry, (a real bald eagle), Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves and Canyon Critters. Enjoy festive activities at the depot before boarding the one-hour round-trip journey. The train rides through an enchanted tunnel onto Santa’s Secret Tracks and arrives at The North Pole, where Santa is waiting and hops on board to ride back with the kids to the depot, offering them a gift.

Want to watch the sunset from the train?

For couples visiting the Verde Valley, the Saturday Starlight Adventures are particularly appealing.

These evening excursions run on Saturdays throughout December 30th, 2026. The canyon looks completely different as the sun disappears and the desert sky begins to fill with stars.

Imagine spending the afternoon together, watching the canyon walls glow in the late-day light, and then returning to Cottonwood beneath an Arizona night sky. That's a pretty wonderful date night.

A few tips for planning your train ride

Book ahead. Fall departures and special experiences can be popular.

Dress in layers. Even when daytime temperatures are comfortable, the open-air cars can feel cooler.

Bring your camera. The combination of fall foliage, red rocks and the Verde River is spectacular.

Allow extra time at the depot. The railroad recommends arriving early, particularly for Ales on Rails, so you have time for the café, museum and pre-boarding activities.

And always check the railroad's current schedule before finalizing your plans.