CLARKDALE, AZ - As the Verde Canyon Railroad snakes along its journey past remnants of a bygone copper industry , majestic American Bald Eagles and Red-tail Hawks soar high overhead or observe train passengers from the comfort of their nests. Millions of years of geological history surround the railroad's forty mile route and evidence of ancient civilizations still exist in this otherwise inaccessible area of Arizona's inner canyons.

Originally built in 1911 to haul supplies and copper between Clarkdale and Drake, the train now caters to tourists on its run between Clarkdale and Perkinsville. The Verde Canyon Railroad's slogan "It's not the destination, it's the journey" becomes apparent when viewing all that's left of its final destination, some abandoned buildings and a train depot.

American Bald Eagles

The train's route, inaccessible by other means, represents a wild and protected eco-system buzzing with life. By far the most popular with tourists are the American Bald Eagles. There were at least six eagle sightings on the excursion I took. Guides on the train are equipped with walkie-talkies. Any sightings of these magnificent creatures are immediately reported in order for all passengers to get a view. The Verde Canyon Railroad works in conjunction with the Arizona Game and Fish Department to safeguard this species and their growth. Since eagles have co-habited with the train since 1911 they are not bothered or intimidated by its' presence.

Don, the guide on our outdoor observation car, explained that while eagles often lay as many as six eggs, only two or three usually survive. This is because the eggs are laid a day apart, so the older birds get the lion's share of the food. The Fish and Game Department has stepped in and often takes the younger eggs from the nests and incubates them. The resulting baby eagles are never acclimated to humans, but are instead fed by an "eagle puppet" and are released into the wild when they can survive on their own. This practice has helped increase the population of a species that was near extinction.

The train is equipped with a public address system and the first hour of the journey is narrated. The geological history of the area is told and rock formations are pointed out, some of which are rarely seen anywhere else in the world. The various colors and layers of rocks make this ancient history really come alive. Indian ruins can also be seen high in the cliffs overhead and the history of the area's previous inhabitants are discussed. For the remaining three hours, the P.A. system is off, but the guides are constantly available to answer questions or point out areas of interest or wildlife sightings.

Superb Service

Service on the train is superb. While there is indoor seating provided for all passengers, there are also several outdoor viewing cars, each with its own guide. A deli and souvenir car provide snacks and momentos. Each of the passenger cars contains a bar for drinks. There are two classes of tickets, coach and first class. The seating in the coach cars resembles that of a tour bus. First class cars are much more comfortable, with sofas and swivel chairs. They also hold about half the number of passengers, so are much less crowded. Also included in first class is a free round of drinks and free hot and cold snacks. A hostess and bartender are always nearby to fulfill your needs.

If that isn't enough, regardless of which ticket you choose, strolling entertainers help to keep the trip lively. Guitar picking, harmonica playing, Ken Mikal and Will Adams have passengers tapping their feet and singing along with traditional railroad songs and western favorites.

Seasonal Sights

While the Verde Canyon Railroad offers a wonderful adventure year round, the four seasons each offer a unique perspective of this wonderful wilderness.

Summer - The cottonwood and mesquite trees are in full bloom. Black hawks are residents at this time of year and Blue Herons cruise the river. Late summer rains and early evening thunderstorms create waterfalls and glistening crimson cliffs. "Starbright" rides - offered only during the summer - provide a glimpse of the nocturnal existence of the indigenous wildlife while the moonlight and star-studded sky cast unique shadows across the wilderness.

Autumn -The change of color is spectacular in the Verde Canyon. The variegated gold of the cottonwood and willow trees is a photographers delight. Mistletoe - found throughout the canyon - adapts to a variety of trees and simulates its' host for nourishment. Animals and waterfowl are more visible, including Mule Deer, Whitetail Deer, Antelope. Javelina, Red-tail Hawks, Blue Herons and Belted Kingfishers.

Winter - From December through March, the Bald and Golden Eagle population soar in Verde Canyon. Over 30 birds, ranging in age, winter in the canyon; the largest population of eagles can be seen during the first three months of the year. (Resident mates now occupy a territory in the canyon, the first since 1968.)

Spring - Wildflowers and cacti are in full bloom from mid-March through June. The hillside is painted in warm hues of color from the indigenous prickly pear; desert marigolds, larkspur, blackfoot daisies, ocotillo, Indian paintbrush and other wildflowers randomly dot the desert landscape with vivid bursts of color.

More Information

For more information about The Verde Canyon Railroad and their wonderful train/hotel packages, visit their web site at www.verdecanyonrr.com.

If you plan on visiting the area, be sure to also read:

• Jerome, Arizona: "Ghost City"
• A Neophyte's View Of Sedona
• Thought Provoking Destinations: Cosanti & Arcosanti