Oktoberfest on the Verde Canyon Railroad

ALES ON RAILS
VERDE CANYON RAILROAD’S OWN OKTOBERFEST

CLARKDALE, Ariz. Originating nearly 200 years ago as a celebration of the fall harvest, and a tribute to Germany’s most famous national product, beer, Oktoberfest traditions have spread far and wide, across borders and oceans… even down the tracks to a small American icon: Verde Canyon Railroad. When the harvest season arrives, it is time to celebrate the abundance of the year’s crops, the beautiful fall colors of the Verde Canyon and the last, warm taste of Arizona’s “Indian Summer.”

What better way to enjoy a sunny October day than riding the rails, enjoying ales from many Arizona microbreweries? The copper, bronze and golden leaves of the canyon’s changing foliage outside the panoramic windows accentuate the rich flavor of amber lagers served to passengers inside the comfort of the coaches. Passengers are encouraged to relax as attendants pamper them with good food and spirits while Mother Nature does the rest. Her timeless artistry is portrayed remarkably in autumn. The waters of the Verde run clear and the sky’s deep blue tones highlight the blazing tangerine and crimson colors of the sandstone cliffs.

To complement October’s festive show of color, the Verde Canyon Railroad has invited a choice selection of Arizona breweries to purvey their best beers, at the depot prior to departure and onboard the train during the excursion. Locally brewed ales served on the covered picnic patio are accompanied by traditional Oktoberfest favorites like sausages, strudels, and pretzels. A live band on the platform will delight all with the rousing sounds of their oom-pa-pa polka music. The revelry will continue after boarding time, when the train begins cruising gently at a 12mph pace up the canyon.

Inspired by nature and conducted by experts, the Verde Canyon Railroad offers amazing scenery and wildlife without sacrificing the luxury of comfort. One of the most impressive color regions in the state may be seen from the restored railcars of the wilderness route. Photographic opportunities abound from the open-air viewing cars accessed from comfortable coaches. The mild autumn days, coupled with cool and crisp nights, is the reason the canyon color is striking and vibrant.

Highlight your Oktoberfest Tour with an overnight stay at one of many hotels or motels located in Jerome, Cottonwood, or Sedona that offer affordable weekend packages with the Verde Canyon Railroad.
Join in the Oktoberfest celebrations, scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays in October beginning the 6th, and continuing through the 28th. To reserve your ride, call 1-800-293-7245, or visit the Railroad’s website at www.verdecanyonrr.com.

The Verde Canyon Railroad is located at 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, Ariz. Ideally situated below the cold of the mountains, and above the heat of the desert, the train depot is 25 minutes from Sedona, two hours north of Phoenix, and one and one-half hours south of Flagstaff. Passengers are encouraged to arrive approximately one and one-half hours prior to departure.