Holiday Joy for Families on the Verde Canyon Railroad's Santa Claus Express
To avoid hectic city scenes and shopping mall crowds, visitors to the Verde Canyon Railroad can spend some quality time with the season's jolly ole fella while riding the rails. On December 4, 11, and 18, 2004, Santa will share seasonal joy on board with candy canes, a soft chuckle, and lots of good cheer.
Old St. Nick will wander through the train cars to visit all of the kids on board from ages 2 to 92 making a list, and checking it twice. Once he's determined who's been naughty or nice, he'll head back North to his workshop. Until then, Santa has parked his reindeer and will be making the Verde Canyon Railroad journey each Saturday in December before Christmas.
While Santa will stay nice and warm in his red velvet suit, passengers are encouraged to bring sweaters and jackets as the changing season brings cooler temperatures to the Verde Valley. One may even anticipate a festive dusting of snow on the red-rock bluffs high above. The spectacular scenery of Mother Nature's timeless artistry throughout the canyon is enhanced by clear, crisp winter skies. Over 35 bald and golden eagles, and a host of other migratory waterfowl, have nestled down in the canyon, not for a long winter's nap, but for a comfortable winter refuge where food is abundant and temperatures are mild.
Passengers may enjoy the comfort of a climate-controlled indoor car with panoramic viewing windows, sipping hot chocolate and enjoying holiday cookies; or experience rosy-cheeked enthusiasm after a wonderfully brisk visit to the open-air viewing cars, accessible to all passengers. Tunnels, trestles and other unexpected treats will delight everyone, ensuring a truly memorable holiday adventure.
Santa enjoys entertaining large groups and the train can accommodate up to 350 people on one run. If there is a special date in December when Santa isn't scheduled to ride, he will be happy to join in a private, festive party hosted by the friendly and attentive Verde Canyon Railroad staff who ensure a great time, every time.
Reservations are required in every season. For more information on the Santa Claus Express and to reserve passage, 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.
