Sedona AZ Part 3

Just west of Sedona is a town called Cottonwood where you catch the Verde Canyon Railroad.

This 3-hour ride begins with a check-in at the reservation counter in the back of the gift shop. The tour runs once a day around lunchtime. Included in the cost are a snack tray and a bottle of water. The tray may be enough food for lunch for most people, but you can also order lunch at the food counter inside the gift shop to eat beforehand at picnic tables, or take with you on the train. You can preorder so it is ready when you get there or order at the counter. There are a couple of vegetarian options but they couldn’t tell me if the veggie patty contained soy so I ordered the grilled cheese without the bacon. I was a little hesitant when it said it contained a jam but it was surprisingly good. 

Before you board you can wander the gift shop or there is a small museum a short way down the station that talks about the area and rail history. When you board the train the attendant for your car will show you to your seats. The cars are set up with sofas on one side facing each other and chairs on the other. The container with your snacks is at your seat. Right before the tour starts you are provided with champagne (or cider for non-drinkers) for a toast. The attendant in each car provides commentary throughout the tour and is also the bartender.

While you are riding along information is provided about the history of the region. You can stay in the enclosed car or go into the open-air cars. It is a very picturesque ride.

At the turnaround point, the train stops so the engine can switch from one end of the train to the other.

While this happens they tell you the story of Pickensville. Hollywood used this stretch to film a scene from “How the West Was Won,” which included blowing up the water tank.

The trip back to the station is pretty much just a chance to reflect on the scenery.