We met some very nice people last evening who also ran into issues getting a camp site. They come to the area every year and were amazed to be sitting here in overflow. They called one of the larger CG’s in the area and were told not to worry they never fill up. Then when they arrived there was no availability. Apparently 60 four wheelers showed up and took all the available spaces at that CG. It sure is busy here!!!
On the way to the train station we stopped to check out a new development and went into one of the homes. The homes here are quite unique and of course southwestern architecture.
We boarded the train around 12:45 pm and were escorted to very comfy sofas.
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We had a choice of champagne or cider for the send off. We chose the cider that was really very good. Once we were moving they had a buffet of chicken wings, Caesar salad, small sandwiches, relish trays, cheese and dessert.
The four hour round-trip took us through a winding journey down into the Verde Valley with some spectacular views of the red cliffs up close.
The ride was narrated as we moved along and Debbie our car attendant was very personable making sure everyone was comfortable and keping their drinks filled.
As we moved along, the colors in the rocks became more vibrant.
It was cool to be able to watch the train either from the front or the back winding around the tracks. In the photo below you can see the caboose. The caboose can be rented for $600.00 for up to 6 people if one were so inclined to spend that much money for a four hour train ride. NOT!!
It was a perfect day so we were able to go out to the open air cars and get great 360 degree views of the canyon.
Along the way different faces or animals were pointed out in the rock formations. The best shot we were ale to get was of the turtle.
We were told there was an eagles nest just outside the entrance to the tunnel but we didn’t get to see it as the train passed into the tunnel.
The return point for the train ride was at the ghost ranch in Perkinsville. At this juncture they unhitch the engines and bring them down a side track and attach it to the caboose for the ride back.
I found it amazing that the engines traveled quite a distant before backing up and linking into the caboose.
The sun had changed positioning in the sky so everything looked different going back. It was a great excursion and we are glad that we were able to get reservations.
Tomorrow we will move to site 20 then plan our day in Sedona.
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