Drive to Cottonwood/Clarkdale and then ride the rails into scenic wilds.

The Verde Canyon Railroad offers a lovely wilderness excursion into an area of great natural beauty, following the curves of the Verde River, 20 miles through a red rock canyon. The trip is full of unusual geology, abundant wildlife, lush greenery, and Native-American ruins, on vintage rails aboard vintage train cars.

After driving to Cottonwood, you’ll have lunch at the Red Rooster, a popular stopping place. Then it’s on to the train and the scenic ride.