Even though the biggest summer celebration is over, don’t forget there’s so much more to do around Prescott. Starlight tours on Verde Canyon Railroad continue through Sept. 17.
Deep red cliffs saturated with the golden glow of sunset and fresh green river breezes invigorate the senses during Verde Canyon Railroad’s popular Summer Starlight series. Scheduled for select Saturday evenings May through September, the Starlight rides depart the depot at 5:30 p.m. as the daytime temperatures fade and leave the route illuminated by the season’s late sunset.
A wide, wild blend of changing luminosity ranges between daylight, sunset, twilight, starlight and moonlight, serving up an amazing variety of vistas and an ever evolving twist to the scenery in this rare riparian canyon. Each passenger may exit their climate-controlled passenger car to partake in the panoramic, all-encompassing outdoors via open-air viewing cars and become an integral part of the sights, scents and sounds of summer outside the city.
Returning to the depot via full moon brilliance, these evening excursions also highlight the Canyon’s wild creatures as many desert dwellers tend to be more active during the twilight hours of dusk and dawn. The summer season in Verde Canyon is as robust, heady and velvety as vintage wine. Dense with foliage, blooms and wildlife, this special wilderness showcases a landscape rare in Arizona.
The historic train features restored mid-century passenger cars, evoking the times of relaxed, stylish rail travel. Coach class is comprised of classic Pullman-style railcars revived from previous careers on commuter lines.
First-class seating provides well-designed living room-style comfort, with overstuffed chairs and loveseats allowing a more spacious atmosphere.
Amenities, such as courtesy appetizers and champagne with full bar options enhance the ride.
All passengers enjoy access to adjoining open-air viewing cars, their expansive panoramas being one of the train’s most popular features.
For more information, visit www.verdecanyonrr.com.
