Skip to Main Content
Arizona

Scenic Railroads of Arizona: Sedona and Grand Canyon

Program No. 1083RJ
Experience the wonders of Sedona and the Grand Canyon via two historic railways as you join experts to learn about the local history, culture and charm of these iconic landscapes.

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

At a Glance

The wonders of Sedona and the Grand Canyon are well known, but few visit these locales via scenic and historic railway. Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad through Arizona’s rim country along the wild and scenic Verde River. Later in the week, embark on an overnight adventure to Grand Canyon National Park via the historic Grand Canyon Railway. Throughout your journey gain insights into regional lore as you explore this breathtaking part of northern Arizona.
Activity Level
Varies by date
Walking up to one mile on varied terrain. Optional longer hike at the Grand Canyon. Elevations of 4,500-7,000 feet.

What You'll Learn

  • Enjoy a guided exploration of Sedona’s red-rock vistas.
  • Travel through dramatic Oak Creek Canyon en route to historic Williams for embarkation on the Grand Canyon Railway.
  • Stay overnight at a Grand Canyon lodge, explore historic village sites and absorb incomparable canyon views.

General Notes

Transportation on this program is by full-sized motor coach.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Carl Bowman
With a bachelor’s degree in biology and having spent 25 years of his life on the South Rim, Carl Bowman knows the Grand Canyon well and specializes in relating the Canyon’s varied and constantly evolving geologic stories. He worked for the National Park Service from 1974-2013, and during his career served as a janitor, wildland fire fighter, archaeologist, ranger, and scientist. A long-time student of the Grand Canyon, Carl has shared its stories with park visitors, staff, university classes and lifelong learners.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Lisa Kearsley
Lisa Kearsley View biography
Lisa Kearsley moved to Arizona in the 1980s to earn a master’s degree in biology at Northern Arizona University and, like many who have come to Arizona, she never left. She has worked for the National Park Service at Grand Canyon as an interpretive park ranger and as a researcher, studying the effects of Glen Canyon Dam on the river. She also is a natural science illustrator, working with pen and ink, as well as watercolor.
Profile Image of Carl Bowman
Carl Bowman View biography
With a bachelor’s degree in biology and having spent 25 years of his life on the South Rim, Carl Bowman knows the Grand Canyon well and specializes in relating the Canyon’s varied and constantly evolving geologic stories. He worked for the National Park Service from 1974-2013, and during his career served as a janitor, wildland fire fighter, archaeologist, ranger, and scientist. A long-time student of the Grand Canyon, Carl has shared its stories with park visitors, staff, university classes and lifelong learners.
Profile Image of Slim Woodruff
Slim Woodruff View biography
Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff is a graduate of Northern Arizona University. She has worked in outdoor recreation and education for most of her adult life. Slim is a board member and outings chair for the Grand Canyon Historical Society. She is a senior instructor with the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Living on the South Rim, her usual hangouts are inside the canyon. Her writings can be found in High Country News Writers on the Range and The Outdoor Journal.
Profile Image of Kathy Farretta
Kathy Farretta View biography
Kathy Farretta is a history and science-loving bookworm who also loves hiking and taking photos. She was previously the Assistant Park Manager at Riordan Mansion State Historic Park in Flagstaff, where she now serves as a volunteer. She received her Master's Degree in History from Northern Arizona University and teaches U.S. History at Coconino Community College, and serves on the Board of the Flagstaff Festival of Science. When not prepping for her history classes, she most often has her nose in a science fiction book.
Profile Image of Rocky Sullivan
Rocky Sullivan View biography
Rocky Sullivan, a Kansas native, has been living in the southwest working on ranches among other things for the better part of three decades. During the last few years, he has brought his poetry into the limelight, gaining respect and praise from peers and audiences. Rocky won in his division of the 2015 National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo in Abilene, Kansas, and again in 2017. He has been asked to perform at numerous venues since.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





Recommended For You

loading spinner