Saturday Starlight Adventures

Here, passengers don’t need a horse to ride into the sunset — only horsepower.

Saturday Starlight Adventures return March 7, 2026, and continue on Saturdays through year’s end. This signature evening excursion carries passengers from golden hour into starlight, as red rock cliffs glow at sunset, shadows stretch across the Verde River, and the desert sky transforms into a canopy of stars. The nighttime rail journey offers a rare perspective of Arizona’s iconic landscape — all experienced under the
setting sun and returning beneath starshine.

Departing from the historic Clarkdale Depot in the late afternoon, the train travels deep into the Verde Canyon, crossing century-old bridges, passing through a 734-foot-long tunnel and turning around at the historic cattle ranch of Perkinsville at sunset, before returning under the stars. The evening schedule allows guests to enjoy stunning sunset views on the outbound journey and a memorable night ride on the return.

Each guest receives a first-class experience with luxury living room-style seating in climate-controlled indoor train cars, with access to adjoining open-air viewing cars for unobstructed stargazing. A selection of beverages and refreshments will be available for purchase onboard, enhancing the relaxed and festive atmosphere of this Saturday evening tradition.

Saturday Starlight Adventures are popular with couples, families, groups and adventure seekers, looking for a distinctive way to spend a Saturday night in Northern Arizona.

The departure times for Saturday Starlight Adventures change throughout the year to align with the season’s sunset, so guests can enjoy the Canyon’s golden hour before the stars take over.

Saturday Starlight Adventures in March, April, October, November and December depart at 3:30 p.m.

Saturday Starlight Adventures in May, June, July, August, and September depart at 5:30 p.m.