October 1st, 2024

With about 5 million people now visiting the Grand Canyon every year and with car parking often difficult to find, it would be nice to visit without the family vehicle. Sure, they have parking at the South rim, but you still must find a space at every overlook, and they require a shuttle to see the west side of the South Rim.

So why put up with the hassle when you can take the train! In fact, the Grand Canyon Railroad completes a round trip every day from the town of Williams, AZ, 60 miles south of the canyon. This alternative lets you park the at the train station in Williams and see the canyon via shuttle for the day.

Want to Make It a Wine Train? No Problem.

There are also hotels at each end of the line, making it possible to plan a longer stay for as many days as you want.

How much does the train cost? It depends. There are 6 classes of service available. These list for between $70-$240/ticket depending on your choices. Note that the amenities vary quite a bit with each of these. For example, you can do basic travel as a 1920’s Pullman passenger or move up through the classes to ride like a Rail Baron.

You can also take advantage of one of the railroad’s discount packages to save about 15% anytime. The company also features special seasonal discounts of around 25% on tickets and various freebees when advertised on Facebook etc. They also offer these 25% discounts with their getaway packages and for those on their mailing list.

And it just so happens that there is a full-service bar with some of the travel options. Of course, the railroad’s wine list also includes our Arizona wineries! If you’re so inclined, set it up as your “wine train”. They will be happy to oblige.

Once your train arrives at the Grand Canyon station, just step off and you’re at the South Rim Village. From there, you may choose to board a shuttle, walk along the rim, backpack down to Phantom Ranch, have lunch, or check into a rim hotel for an extended stay (reservations necessary).

One of my favorite experiences is to walk to the end of the car and enjoy the view from an outdoor observation platform. If you like to take in the rolling sensation of the rail, get a blast of fresh air, and feel drawn to this magnificent countryside, these platforms are amazing. Not all the options offer this, please check.

The observation cars are an amazing opportunity for those who enjoy our western scenery. This is especially captivating during the fall through spring months. During this half of the year, you can watch the approach of sunset on the return trip. As the moving shadows and sun play on the pines and meadows, it’s easy to imagine the romance of seeing the Old West by rail.

The trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, leaving about 3 hours to enjoy the canyon if you plan to return the same day. For some people this is enough, but for many, staying at the canyon for 2 full days provides adequate time to take in the South Rim. Be sure to create a little personal space to contemplate this wonderful National Park.

Note that they also offer the Polar Express. It leaves from Williams during the winter holidays. This is an excellent reenactment of the “Polar Express” book by Chris Van Allsburg and the animated movie by the same name. This is a dream reenactment for the kids, complete with the hot cocoa!

After arriving at the “North Pole”, the Polar Express reverses and goes back to Williams. They have a hotel right at the station so it’s easy get everyone tucked in before a leisurely trip home the next day.

Right now, the GC Railroad’s “On Track for A Cure” is celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They are featuring an All-Star Female Staffed Train with special décor. So, if you happen to be riding during October, be prepared to see some pink.

This rail experience is one of the best that Arizona offers, and it looks like the tradition will continue for many years to come.

All aboard partner!!