Ales on Rails 2025

VERDE CANYON RAILROAD ALES ON RAILS FESTIVAL

 

It’s Oktoberfest, Arizona style! When you arrive at the Verde Canyon Railroad Depot, take part in the Ales on Rails Festival, where you can choose to purchase a variety of beers from a wide range of Arizona breweries. Find a lager you love, pick up a new pilsner, or sip on an IPA before you hop aboard the train! Take in the beauty of the area while enjoying lunch from the Copper Spike Café with an included meal voucher. From burgers and barbeque to generous salads, there are choices for everyone to enjoy.

Once aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad the celebration continues as you take in the scenery and enjoy time with friends and a champagne toast! Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery during a four-hour train journey to areas only accessible by rail!

 

 

Verde Canyon Railroad

Since the first Verde Canyon Railroad excursion rolled out of Clarkdale more than 30 years ago, following a historic route completed in 1912, the Verde Canyon train has expanded in length, number of employees and amenities, but has never lost its commitment to preserving, protecting, and presenting to the world the rare red rock riparian wilderness it calls home.

 

At The Depot - John Bell Museum

While enjoying the Ales on Rails Festival and lunch, you can take in the historic surroundings, learn about the Sedona area railroad history or stop by the gift shop. A stroll down the sidewalk bordering the outdoor dining area leads to the museum, a renovated boxcar packed with the interesting history of the train line, the Canyon and neighboring communities all told through a collection of train memorabilia and historic artifacts spanning more than a century.

 

Aboard The Train

Tradition meets comfort and adventure. The 4-hour train tour offers outdoor viewing cars, food & alcohol service, and the ability to see places inaccessible without the train. See crimson cliffs, eagle nests, white water rapids, and abandoned gold mines.

 

FP7 Locomotives

Two of only 10 remaining in North America, are the muscle that pulls the quarter-mile length of passenger cars. The classic iron horses, built in 1953 for the Alaska Railroad, debuted on Verde Canyon Railroad tracks on March 8, 1997. The meticulously-cared-for engines received a facelift in 2019 with an updated distinctive American bald eagle motif.

 

In The Canyon

The Verde Canyon features an abundance of native flora and fauna, rugged, high-desert rock faces, and spectacular vistas. You can see towering red rock buttes, steep ravines, bald eagles, and other wildlife viewing in one of the world's most beautiful canyons. Expect to be captivated by this untouched and unspoiled canyon.

 

A Message From Verde Canyon RR

"From the moment you step foot on one of our meticulously refurbished train cars, you and your family will be transported to a simpler, more leisurely time away from the

distractions and annoyances of our modern world. Breathe deep, order a drink and relax as you glide along on a 4-hour, 20-mile journey through 110 years of history while still enjoying modern creature comforts like climate control, comfortable seating, thoughtful décor and awe-inspired scenery."

What to Wear

Closed toe shoes & dress in layers

 

 

 

Average Temperature

Clarkdale, AZ (Verde Canyon Railroad)

October| 81 / 48°F

 

 

 

Activity Level 1

With low physical activity requirements (15-30 minutes of walking with little difficulty) at a leisurely pace, Level 1 is perfect for those who want to explore new destinations without feeling rushed. From comfortable coach transport to accessible walking routes, Level 1 takes the stress out of traveling without sacrificing an ounce of excitement. So go ahead and book your next trip – with Level 1, there’s no need to slow down!

Ales On Rails 2025 Flyer