You Can Visit One of America's Best National Parks on a Vintage Steam Train This Summer
All aboard Grand Canyon Railway's steam train!
Courtesy of Xanterra Travel Collection
True train fans know that steam locomotives offer a unique experience. It's like stepping back to a quieter time — a time when slow travel ruled and every seat provided the best view onboard.
Just a few hundred steam locomotives remain in working condition around the U.S. today. Luckily for enthusiasts, this includes the steam train owned by Grand Canyon Railway, and they are more than happy to take you for a ride.
The Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel invites guests to step aboard one of its several steam-powered trains, including the GCR No. 29 and GCR No. 4960, which take travelers through the Grand Canyon National Park. The company hosts the aptly named "Steam Saturdays," which kick off March 2 and run the first Saturday of the month through October. And there are a few select celebrations in between, too.
Steam dates include March 2, April 6, and April 20 to honor Earth Day. Then, May 4, June 1, July 6, and Aug. 3, with the addition of Aug. 12 to celebrate Steam Engine 4960's Birthday, followed by Sept. 7 and Sept. 21 to honor Grand Canyon Railway's Anniversary, and lastly, Oct. 5.
The trip on the train begins before you ever leave the station, as there's a "wild west shootout" between two of the train's cowboys, who also board the train to sing a few Old West songs along the route.
The train leaves the station at about 9:30 a.m., taking guests to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon by 11:45 a.m. Here, visitors will have three hours to disembark and explore the park and all the surrounding historic buildings. Just make sure to get back onboard by 3:30 p.m. to take the return trip.
Travelers can choose from six different classes on the train, including Pullman Class, Coach, and First Class. Pullman Class offers bench-style seating while Coach and First offer plush chairs, but all three still give guests access to those fantastic picture windows to drink in the views.
To level up, guests can book a ticket on the train's Observation Dome car, which gives the fullest view available, or get a ticket for the Luxury Dome or Luxury Parlor cars, both of which offer private bar service and exclusive cocktails. Then, when you're all done, you can always check into the Railway Hotel to make the journey feel complete. See more about the trains and get tickets starting at $70 round trip for adults and $36 for children at thetrain.com.
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