Starlight Tours
The “Stars” of Arizona come out to play at Verde Canyon Railroad
When you’re visiting the Verde River Valley and Sedona this summer make sure to check out the ultimate Starlight Tour into the scenic Verde Canyon with the Verde Canyon Railroad! There are a few tours in the Sedona-Verde Valley that I would do over and over again. The Starlight Tours with the Verde Canyon Railroad is definitely on of them!
On summer evenings, it’s not just the stars in the sky that come out to play in Verde Canyon. As the sun slips behind distant mountains, cool air sweeps through the Canyon signaling the resident wildlife to begin their nightly rounds. The Canyon comes alive with the luminous glow of moon-kissed skies on Verde Canyon Railroad’s popular Saturday Starlight Tours. The train departs the depot at 5:30 p.m. and as it rumbles through the Canyon, the low slant of sun bathes the high cliffs in soft golden hues. The train reaches the turn-around point of Perkinsville amid a scandalous sunset. The return trip offers a serene glimpse into the nocturnal wildlife set against a dazzling canvas of celestial bodies.
See for yourself on the Verde Canyon Railroad’s wildly popular Starlight Tours on select Saturday evenings June 2nd & 30th, July 7th & 28th, August 4th& 18th and September 1st. The bi-monthly evening excursions alternate between glowing moonlit nights and moonless evenings, letting the stars steal the show during the Dark Skies Constellation Ride on the August 18th ride.
Verde Canyon Railroad passengers also have two unique options for “play” during these enchanting evening rides:
The Grape Train Escape
A rolling wine-tasting adventure where select wineries purvey their wines which we pair with delectable appetizers. Relax in the comfort of a first-class car or on an open-air viewing car enjoying the true essence of Arizona outdoors … with a glass of wine in your hand.- The Tequila Sunset Limited
Pairs premium Arizona-grown tequila with festive Southwestern specialties and signature drinks. No drink exemplifies the rich and varied character of this region like tequila, harvested from the agave plant. Let the complexity of the spirit unfurl across your taste buds as you marvel at the glittering canopy of heavenly bodies overhead.
Only two hours from Phoenix and 25 minutes from Sedona, Verde Canyon Railroad is the perfect Arizona day-trip, or if you plan to stay over, ask about their Room, Ride and Meal packages. Other than Saturday Starlight Tours, trains depart at 1:00 pm. and return at 5:00 pm. Reservations are accepted at 800.293.7245 or online at Verde Canyon Railroad.
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