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.
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Apr 28 - May 3, 2025
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Feb 24 - Mar 1, 2025
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6 days
5 nights
13 meals
5B 3L 5D
2
Geology, Verde Canyon Railroad.
Sedona, AZ
4
Grand Canyon Railway, Explore Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon - South Rim
5
Desert View, Canyon Exploration, Program Wrap-Up
Grand Canyon - South Rim
6
Return to Sedona; Program Concludes
Sedona, AZ
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.
Best of all, you’ll…
- 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Brendan O'Brien
View biography
Brendan O’Brien holds a Master of Science in Geography degree from Northern Arizona University and calls Flagstaff home. He has held jobs in the outdoor education field for much of the last decade with time spent as a Park Ranger in White Sands National Monument and a forest technician in Flathead National Forest. Brendan loves all the outdoor activities that Northern Arizona offers and especially its crystal clear night skies where he can enjoy his passion for star gazing.
Rob Estrada
View biography
Rob Estrada received his bachelor's degree in broadcasting production from California State University, Northridge. He has a master's degree in public history from Northern Arizona University, with an emphasis in Southwestern borderlands and a minor in Southwestern archaeology. Rob worked six seasons for the National Park Service in the Natural Resources and Interpretations departments, and is currently the staff ethnobotanist with Verde Valley Archaeology Center. He enjoys spending time with his two children, his five grandchildren, and his cat Eva, in Rimrock, Arizona.
Suggested Reading List
(8 books)
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.
Scenic Railroads of Arizona: Sedona and Grand Canyon
Program Number: 1083
The Archaeology of Ancient Arizona
General overview of the archaeology of Arizona written by archaeologists with combined experience of over half a century of a combination of laboratory and fieldwork.
Grand Canyon Geology
This second edition of the leading book on Grand Canyon geology contains the most recent discoveries and interpretations of the origin and history of the canyon. It includes two entirely new chapters: one on debris flow in the Canyon and one on the impact of water flow releases from the Glen Canyon Dam. All chapters have been updated where necessary and all photographs have been replaced or re-screened for better resolution. Written by acknowledged experts in stratigraphy, paleontology, structural geology, geomorphology, volcanism and seismology, this book offers a wealth of information for geologists and general readers interested in acquiring an understanding of the geological history of this great natural wonder. 423pp
Arizona: A Cavalcade of History
During America's first 100 years as a nation, pioneers moved ever-westward to new frontiers. When it became too crowded or the soil was mined out, they moved on to virgin land. Those days are gone forever. We have to learn to live with the problems we create. The knowledge gained from studying the mistakes of the past can help provide a better future. Will Rogers said it best: "The Indians never got lost because they were always looking back to see where they'd been." 368pp
Secret Sedona: Sacred Moments in the Landscape
This book provides an overview of the terrain, ancestral Indian ruins and petroglyphs found in Sedona's wilderness areas. Extraordinary photography from one of the nations most photogenic areas. 80 pages.
Carving Grand Canyon: Evidence, Theories, and Mystery
Ranney explains how rivers in general can physically carve canyons, looks chronologically at the numerous theories that have been presented by successive generations of geologists regarding the Grand Canyon's formation, and describes a plausible sequence of geologic events that could create such a landscape. Numerous color photographs, detailed illustrations, and maps are provided. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR 160pp; 2nd edition 2012.
An Introduction to Grand Canyon Prehistory
People have inhabited Grand Canyon for the past twelve thousand years. Evidence of their lives exists throughout the canyon; but it is up to their ancestors and archaeologists to interpret those remains for us. This book provides a popular look at the architecture, art, and tools of prehistoric Puebloan peoples, as well as information about modern-day Native American tribes. With illustrations and color photographs.
Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters, and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region
A comprehensive look at the pioneer history of the Grand Canyon Region, from its earliest residents to the creation of the national park at the end of the pioneer era (circa 1920). Included are close to two hundred historic photographs, many never published before, and 12 custom maps of the region. 184pp
Sedona through time: Geology of the Red Rocks
Visitors to the towering red rock cliffs near Sedona seldom realize that the area was once a broad river floodplain that lay beyond the Ancestral Rocky Mountains. Or that this same place was later buried in a vast, Sahara-like desert, still later to lie beneath the waters of a warm tropical sea filled with ancient life forms. Sedona Through Time is an eminently readable story of the evolution of this fantastic landscape through the eons of geologic time.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Sedona, AZ
Program Concludes
Sedona, AZ
Meals
13
| 5B |
3L |
5D |
Activity Level
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.)
Best of all, you'll...
- 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
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 the program
Slim Woodruff
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.
Kathy Farretta
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.
Brendan O'Brien
Brendan O’Brien holds a Master of Science in Geography degree from Northern Arizona University and calls Flagstaff home. He has held jobs in the outdoor education field for much of the last decade with time spent as a Park Ranger in White Sands National Monument and a forest technician in Flathead National Forest. Brendan loves all the outdoor activities that Northern Arizona offers and especially its crystal clear night skies where he can enjoy his passion for star gazing.
Rob Estrada
Rob Estrada received his bachelor's degree in broadcasting production from California State University, Northridge. He has a master's degree in public history from Northern Arizona University, with an emphasis in Southwestern borderlands and a minor in Southwestern archaeology. Rob worked six seasons for the National Park Service in the Natural Resources and Interpretations departments, and is currently the staff ethnobotanist with Verde Valley Archaeology Center. He enjoys spending time with his two children, his five grandchildren, and his cat Eva, in Rimrock, Arizona.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Varies by date
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(8 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
13 meals | 5B | 3L | 5D |
3 expert-led lectures
5 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
D
Stay:
Element Sedona
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
4:30-5:15 p.m. Program Registration: After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in the hotel conference room to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. All field trips will be led by our Group Leader, a seasoned and experienced naturalist, unless specified otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
In hotel meeting room.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Geology, Verde Canyon Railroad.
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Element Sedona
Activity Note
Walking approximately 1 mile throughout day; mostly paved surfaces. Driving about 50 miles total; approx. 1 hour. Getting on/off a train; train ride is approx. 40 miles; about 4 hours.
Breakfast:
Hotel Continental Breakfast.
Morning:
Enjoy a presentation in our hotel conference room on the geologic story of Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and the surrounding area. The talk will help make sense of how the stunning beauty of this area came to be and prepare us for our time spent at the Grand Canyon. We will then ride to Clarkdale and board the train for our field trip up the Verde Canyon.
Lunch:
Our first-class train tickets include lunch with charcuterie items such as cured meats, gourmet cheese, fruit, fruit dip, crackers, brownies, and bottled water. It also incudes a champagne or sparkling cider toast upon boarding!
Afternoon:
Next, we will transfer to the railroad platform and board the train for a leisurely ride with commentary given by a railroad expert. The Verde Canyon Railroad follows a 40-mile route along the Verde River. We will ride in comfort in renovated 1st class passenger and open air cars, journeying at a slow pace mostly near the canyon bottom. Along the route, we will pass red rock pinnacles, cross bridges, see Native American ruins, and ride through a 680-foot tunnel. Keep your eyes out for native plants and animals including the more than 30 eagles that winter in this scenic area. Following our journey we will stop at a restaurant for dinner before returning to the hotel.
Dinner:
Plated meal meal at a nearby restaurant.
Evening:
Evening at leisure following our late return from our days adventure. Tomorrow is a transfer day, so be sure to spend some time packing and preparing.
Day
3
Montezuma Castle, Sedona Sights, Historic Williams, AZ
Location:
Williams, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
Activity Note
Driving approx. 90 miles total for the day; about 2 hours total, with stops for field trips. Walking approx. 1 mile total throughout the day; flat, paved trails. Getting on/off trolley; 2 hour excursion with scenic views and historic sites. End of day driving approx. 65 miles one way to Williams Railway Station, approx. 1.5 hours.
Breakfast:
Hotel Continental Breakfast.
Morning:
After checking out of our hotel, we will set out for an all-day field trip, before ending the day in the historic railroad town of Williams, Arizona. Board transport with your Group Leader for a field trip to Montezuma Castle National Monument. This 5-story, 20-room cliff dwelling is nestled in a limestone recess high above the flood plain of Beaver Creek in the Verde Valley. It is one of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America, constructed approximately 600 years ago by the Sinagua Indians. While here, we will observe the ruins from below and take note of Wet Beaver Creek’s unique ecosystem as we walk the paved loop trail. Following, we will transport to Verde Valley Archeological Center and Museum for a docent-led tour of the local artifacts discovered in the area.
Lunch:
Restaurant plated meal.
Afternoon:
Next, we will ride to Sedona and view some of the town’s most scenic sites. During our exploration, we will learn about the area’s history, geology, climate, flora, and fauna. We will also have photo opportunities at some key vistas. We will then reboard the bus and ride approximately 1.5 hours to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in historic Williams, Arizona, and check in.
Dinner:
We will walk to the Grand Canyon Railway Depot dining facility adjacent to our hotel.
Evening:
We will be joined at the hotel by a local historian who will discuss railroad history in northern Arizona.
Day
4
Grand Canyon Railway, Explore Grand Canyon National Park
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Getting on/off the train; ride is 60 miles; approx. 2.5 hours. Walking about 1.5-2 miles during group activities, more dependent on personal interest; mostly paved, but some uneven surfaces; elevation of approx. 7,000 feet.
Breakfast:
At the Grand Canyon Railway Depot dining facility.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will load our luggage into transport before breakfast. After breakfast we will enjoy the Wild West Show before boarding the Grand Canyon Railway train for a scenic and entertaining ride across the Coconino Plateau to the Grand Canyon, narrated by the rail car attendant. The Grand Canyon Railway first arrived at the Grand Canyon in 1901. It heralded in a new age of travel, development and some might say luxury at the canyon. We will experience and relish this "classic" way of travel to the "doorsteps" of the historic El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Village, and to the very rim of the canyon. On board, strolling musicians will provide entertainment during the ride.
Lunch:
Aboard the train en route to the Grand Canyon, we will have sack lunches including a sandwich, chips, fruit and cookie.
Afternoon:
After arrival at Grand Canyon Village and the South Rim, we will gather for our first views of the canyon. Our Group Leader will point out the canyon's many features with historic and natural significance. We will also explore historical Grand Canyon Village— sometimes called "downtown Grand Canyon" — the site of much of the human development on the canyon's South Rim. Highlights of the village include the Kolb Studio where the Kolb brothers took photos of mule riders into the canyon, the buildings of Santa Fe Railroad and Fred Harvey, and architect and designer Mary Jane Colter’s work including the Bright Angel Lodge, Lookout Studio, and the Hopi House. At the east end of the Village, we will visit the El Tovar Hotel, built in 1903 and one of the great hotels in the National Parks. From the village, we will be able to see the North Rim and various spires and monuments rising from the canyon floor. We will also have time to explore rim trails and admire canyon vistas. We will then check into the lodge.
Dinner:
Yavapai Lodge cafeteria style meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Those who wish to participate may transfer to a park location for an engaging elective presentation led by National Park Service Rangers. These will cover a Grand Canyon topic of interest and change nightly. NOTE: This activity is dependent on national park scheduling and current Covid restrictions.
Day
5
Desert View, Canyon Exploration, Program Wrap-Up
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles or more, depending on preference, either along the Grand Canyon Rim or hiking a short distance into its depths.
Breakfast:
At Yavapai Lodge.
Morning:
This morning we will meet at a predetermined time and location to travel to and explore the scenic East Rim of the Grand Canyon to Desert View. Desert View is the location of Mary Jane Colter’s famous Watchtower and some of the best views of the Colorado River. Known for her many works for the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad, Mary Jane Colter was a female architect in the early 20th century and helped blend Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival architecture with Native American motifs. The Watchtower is an interpretation of a prehistoric “tower kiva" with lavishly painted interior walls by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie. We will have time to explore the Watchtower with our Group Leader available to answer any questions. In late morning, return to the hotel via Mather Point for a grand look at this world wonder.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like from a variety of venues on the South Rim. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
This afternoon enjoy personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most using the park's pocket guide and map. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. The National Park Service includes a free shuttle along the West Rim Drive to Hermit's Rest with access to numerous scenic viewpoints (Powell, Hopi, Mohave, and Maricopa points to name a few) with sweeping views of the Canyon and the Colorado River. You might also like to go for a rim walk, hike further into the Canyon, attend an NPS ranger program, or just find a quiet spot to contemplate and gaze out at the Grand Canyon, taking in all of its grandeur.
Dinner:
At a restaurant in the town of Tusayan, just outside the park boundary. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
We will have a wrap-up session at the restaurant before returning to the hotel. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Prepare for early check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Return to Sedona; Program Concludes
Location:
Sedona, AZ
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Driving approx. 120 miles from Grand Canyon to Sedona.
Breakfast:
Early morning lodge breakfast.
Morning:
Load luggage, check out of the lodge and depart for Sedona by 7:30 am. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Do not forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
13 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
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- Nov 11, 2024 - Nov 16, 2024
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Participant Reviews
Based on 68 Reviews
Sort By:
This is definitely a 5 Star trip. We saw Montezuma's Castle, Sedona, the Grand Canyon from several different viewpoints, and we even rode trains. Our leaders, Rob and Sheila, are the best! I loved being able to see different areas of the canyon at different times during the day and learning about its history and geology. The walking parts of the trip were not at all difficult.
— Review left October 25, 2024
We enjoyed our trip to Sedona and Grand Canyon! The train trips were an added pleasure and it helped us see an area of the country that we could not travel to by ourselves. This trip helped us reach a goal on our bucket list!
— Review left October 19, 2024
An amazing experience watching the sunset in the Grand Canyon !
— Review left October 15, 2024
Had a great time on our trip. Rob and John our tour directors were excellent. Thanks again.
— Review left October 10, 2024
The was my first Road Scholar trip. It was wonderful! Our guide and the presenters were so knowledgable. I learned so many interesting things about the early railroads and the construction of buildings at the Canyon. Both train rides were a great way ro view the terrain. And of course, the Grand Canyon is spectacular!
— Review left October 7, 2024
This was a fun, informative and relaxing program. The Grand Canyon was on my bucket list and traveling with Road Scholar made it better than I had ever imagined because of the history and insights provided by staff and speakers. Our guide arranged a special nighttime bus ride for us to be able to see the partial eclipse of the moon happenig during our trip. It was fabulous!
— Review left September 29, 2024
Americans know we have a Grand Canyon, and we have seen many pictures of it, but there is nothing like seeing its size, scope, and grandeur in person. The first view is stunning and qualifies it as a wonder of the world. This trip offers the amazing.
— Review left September 19, 2024
I had a life-changing experience on this, my first Road Scholar journey. I loved every minute of it and can't wait for the next one.
— Review left September 18, 2024
This trip was amazing, beyond expectations, and I have beautiful memories that will last a lifetime! Thank you!!
— Review left May 25, 2024
A great trip! Verde Canyon train ride and sunset views were the highlights. Made good friends! Our group leader, Rocky, was A+!
— Review left May 21, 2024
Enjoy the natural wonders of Sedona and the Grand Canyon and the man-made wonder of Montezuma's Castle, an ancient cliff-dwelling. Learn about the geology shaping these three sites and travel through time on two half-day rail adventures.
— Review left May 21, 2024
all things were excellent
— Review left May 19, 2024
What a great week! Fun train rides, weather couldn't have been nicer, good accommodations and then there was Rocky who kept us entertained with cowboy poetry and his knowledge of the Southwest. Group was too large to get to know all their names but could recognize faces by the end.
— Review left May 12, 2024
If you love trains and have always wanted to see the Grand Canyon this is the program for you!
— Review left April 7, 2024
The experience I had with Road Scholar was just the right mix of education and travel fun!
— Review left April 7, 2024
Verde Canyon train ride is spectacular. Train to the Grand Canyon is a peaceful, enjoyable way to get to one of the most amazing places on earth. Our leadership team of Rocky, Brendan, and Shayla was top notch--well-organized and caring people. We learned about geology, the desert landscape, and the human history in the area. Montezuma Castle and the museum in Camp Verde were just a small part of the program but helped us understand once again that this beautiful land was home to and sacred to people long before the European-background folks decided to move in.
— Review left April 5, 2024
THe train trip up the Verde Canyon Railway one of the best I've taken. And if you have never seen the Grand Canyon this trip will give you a glimpse of that gigantic place.
— Review left March 30, 2024
Excellent experience. We plan to schedule future
Road Scholar adventures!
— Review left March 25, 2024
This was my first Road Scholar trip and my first visit to the Grand Canyon. Getting the information around the geology and history before arriving there made the time at the canyon truly amazing. Our guides were wonderful - knowledgeable, flexible, helpful and funny - a great combination in my book! I will definitely be taking another RS trip.
Deep thanks to Rocky, Shayla and Amy!
— Review left March 20, 2024
The place, people and personnel - each exceeded expectations. Well worth the cost. Certainly considering future Road Scholar Trips.
— Review left March 15, 2024
The perfect no-hiking-needed Grand Canyon experience, with views from different vantage points, a good introduction to Sedona, a great intro to the area's geology, and two very enjoyable rides on historic railways.
— Review left March 3, 2024
Overall a great trip. Excellent guides and scenery. One glaring weakness was the Chinese Buffet, absolutely the worst Chinese food we've had in decades, really terrible. Everyone we talked to on the trip agreed.
— Review left February 1, 2024
As an adult immigrant to the US, most of my "knowlegde" of native Americans can from cowboy movies and TV shows. That was a very different perspective from the reality that I learned on the trip. Thank you.
— Review left November 2, 2023
A very comprehensive, well-organized tour of one of the most beautiful and iconic places in the U.S., and, happily, the weather gods smiled on us!
— Review left September 28, 2023
Scenic Railroads of Arizona: Sedona and the Grand Canyon is a fabulous program. The sights are fantastic. It is very doable for all activity levels as long as you can get on and off a bus. The trains rides are delightful. Bus rides are comfortable and not for an extended period of time. Free time allows for exploration at any activity level you are comfortable with.
— Review left September 23, 2023
Breathtaking. Beyond expectations. Comfortable in every aspect of the journey with Road Scholar. Educational opportunities exceeded. Charming. Financially doable. Physical expectations were accurately explained. New friendship opportunities superb. I can't wait to travel with Road Scholar again !!
— Review left September 12, 2023
Very educational experience
— Review left September 8, 2023
Road Scholar consistently delivers an outstanding experience. The group leaders were excellent. The program accommodated everyone's needs while being thoroughly enjoyable.
— Review left May 15, 2023
If you have never been to the Grand Canyon or Sedona or have visited and want to revisit, this program is the way to go. One would be very hard pressed to plan and develop an itinerary as rich as this Road Scholars program on one's own.
The instructors and guides are amazing having a love and encyclopedic knowledge of these world wonders that they enthusiastically share.
I highly recommend this program.
— Review left May 8, 2023
This tour was a great introduction to Sedona, the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona. Our group leaders, Devon and Rocky, were fantastic and worked flawlessly together to ensure our group had a terrific experience. The expert speakers were extremely knowledgeable and very good speakers. Karen, our bus driver is a pro at her job. Seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time was truly awesome. Pictures cannot do it justice. The train rides were fun and comfortable, and we learned a great deal about how the railroads contributed to the development of this part of Arizona. We will be planning another trip to this area and can’t wait to see and learn more. Very good program.
— Review left May 5, 2023
I expected to check seeing the Grand Canyon off my bucket list. However, this program greatly exceeded my expectations as I learned so much more about the geography and geology of the region, as well as the history and culture.
— Review left April 2, 2023
This program was fun, interesting, varied, and informative. The vistas and views were stunning. The weather was less than perfect; however, we had a truly magical experience at the Grand Canyon! Due to an imminent snowstorm the night before we were scheduled to catch the train at Williams, we changed hotels in order to be at the train station on time. It continued to snow after we arrived and through our first night at the canyon. Thanks to the proactive problem solving skills of our amazing Group Leader, Devon, (and those who worked "behind the scenes" to make these changes happen), we were treated to a "snow-enhanced view" of the Grand Canyon that few will ever experience. Thanks again, Devon, and Road Scholar! (FIVE stars!)
— Review left March 10, 2023
Just came back from the Scenic Railways of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. Highly recommend this trip. March is the perfect time to see the wonder of the Grand Canyon! We had the place almost to ourselves!
— Review left March 4, 2023
As a busy woman in my mid-forties with job & family back home, the Road Scholar program took care of all the planning and logistics to allow me to spend all my time and energy with my 85yr-old dad. The pacing of the program, with thoughtful accommodations for folks with varied levels of physical abilities and an incredible group leader, was just right. My dad checked off the Grand Canyon from his Bucket List, and we were able to share in moments that we will cherish forever. My dad and I will be forever grateful to Road Scholar for its part in making the best memories of our lives.
— Review left November 12, 2022
An excellent introduction to Arizona: redrock country around the beautiful town of Sedona; Montezuma's Castle; and great train trips in Verde Canyon and the Grand Canyon Railroad from Williams to the South Rim. And, of course, the Grand Canyon. The day-and-a-half to explore the South Rim is perfect.
Our group was very large (35) but very cooperative / on-time! Weather in mid-October was (lucky for us) perfect: sunny and warm, and nice puffy clouds for some awesome photos. Our group leader and bus driver were great guys! They made it enjoyable and relaxing.
Strongly recommended for National Park and Train enthusiasts.
— Review left November 1, 2022
This trip was disappointing. It was billed as a train trek and we spent a total of 6 hours on a train in this 5 day trip. Issues with technology not working. The food served to us was terrible. The hotel in Sedona had no restaurant or public transportation. It is located 7 miles outside Sedona.
This was our 6th trip with Road Scholar and most likely our last one.
— Review left October 29, 2022
This was a wonderful experience. The scenery is spectacular. The guide is capable, friendly, and very organized. He made our trip even more special. I was worried about being able to "keep up" but it was no problem. The program accommodated everyone
— Review left October 16, 2022
Great way to see the area with good, like-minded people, great tour guides, and everything taken care of for you
— Review left October 11, 2022
One cannot describe the beauty of the Grand Canyon, and pictures do not show the grandeur of it. It truly is breath taking and the only way to truly understand this is to actually stand on the rim and SEE it for yourself! I am thankful to Road Scholar for allowing me to do this. Quite an amazing experience!
— Review left October 10, 2022
The Road Scholar trip I attended was exceptional. Our guide bent over backwards to help us enjoy the trip. The group was friendly and welcoming. We all shared a wonderful experience in the desert Southwest, seeing the amazing landscape and learning about its formation over billions of years.
— Review left October 9, 2022
Thanks Rob Brubaker.. for sharing so much of your knowledge throughout our tour of the Grand Canyon, Montezuma's Castle, Verde Canyon and Sedona.. You did a fabulous job of keeping our group together and focused everyday on the activities.. My hat is off to you for making the trip special for everyone regardless of those who had a few physical difficulties .. Not one person was left out or felt they weren’t capable to participate in all the physical activities… thanks for a great experience that my wife Connie and I will share with many of our friends and we will continue to support the programs of Road Scholar.. Jim Hoch..& Connie Kelly…
— Review left October 4, 2022
A thorough sampling of Sedona and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Dynamic and enjoyable group leader, perfect weather, plentiful train travel, and beautiful scenery, with an afternoon for self exploration of the Grand Canyon. An excellent program. I would definitely recommend.
— Review left June 1, 2022
I would have liked a better description in the "subject line" of the emails. They all said "important info about your trip" so it was time consuming to find which referenced who to contact at The Element, which talked about references, etc
— Review left May 24, 2022
This experience was fabulous and I loved seeing and learning so much about the Grand Canyon, Native American history, geology, and so much more. Only wish the group size was smaller.
— Review left May 22, 2022
If your Bucket List includes seeing Sedona and the Grand Canyon, this is the trip for you! You will love every minute of this Road Scholar experience! The views you will see are breathtaking! You'll bring home lots of sweet memories!
— Review left May 12, 2022
Knowledge
— Review left April 29, 2022
My lengthy review was lost! I’ll try again tomorrow. :-(
— Review left March 31, 2022
As with all RS programs, we enjoyed meeting and interacting with new people! Snippets from their life stories will remain ingrained in our hearts and minds long after the occasional food/accommodation issues are long forgotten.
This was our 10th RS program, and we are happy to say there will be many more in the future!
Paul & Maurine Dalluge
RS Class of 2016
— Review left March 20, 2022
Lots of fun. Great staff. Made everything very interesting.
— Review left March 15, 2022
Excellent trip. Well organized and well run. Tour guide Betty was terrific as was our bus driver. Good experience all around. Friendly group to travel with. So glad I joined this wonderful trip.
— Review left November 13, 2021
Fantastic trip with Betty being a great leader. The landscape at Sedona and the Grand Canyon were spectacular. Riding two trains during the program were so much fun. An exceptional event was being at the rim to see the sunrise. Betty did a great job as “photographer” with our cameras to take individual pictures of us at the sunrise. Program exceeded my expectations.
— Review left November 7, 2021
Great program. Would highly recommend it. Betty was a great leader.
— Review left October 18, 2021
If you like train rides and enjoy seeing breath taking geological formations
this trip could be for you.
— Review left October 8, 2021
This trip exceeded expectations and fulfilled a long -held desire to see the Grand Canyon and experience its majesty. The fellow travelers were all wonderful companions. This was our first Road Scholar trip and I heartily recommend it. We have already booked our next trip with RS!
— Review left September 12, 2021
Road Scholar adds such depth and historical perspective to your Grand Canyon visit. It's so much more than a nice view. If you're interested in the Native First Nation people and also how the National Parks saved the GC from commercialism, go on this excellent trip and learn, learn, learn. I loved it.
— Review left March 10, 2020
My husband and I experienced so much more then we expected! Sedona, railroads, and the Grand Canyon in a way we wouldn't have on our own. Now we have ideas to explore the area to greater depth at a later time.
— Review left March 7, 2020
Overall, it was a wonderful trip!
— Review left November 2, 2019
This is a wonderful trip to see Sedona & the Grand Canyon. The program was well organized & insightful and reasonably priced. The only thing I would suggest is to add another day at the Grand Canyon.
— Review left October 27, 2019
Incredible exploration of the desert Southwest with an excellent balance of educational sessions paired with sightseeing excursions. Excellent tour guide and great group of fellow participants. Strongly recommend this tour of Sedona and the Grand Canyon.
— Review left September 29, 2019
This program was enjoyable, informative and entertaining. I rated it as AAA+. The scenery was breath taking, the train rides were great, and the tours were exceptional.
— Review left May 27, 2019
First time using Road Scholar and was very pleased with our trip to the Grand Canyon/Arizona Attractions.
Our instructor we had which was Paul was very knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the area and what it has to offer. Would love to book another trip with Paul!
— Review left May 14, 2019
This was a really nice trip. Two antique train rides, seeing the Grand Canyon and spending lesure time in Sedona was wonderful. Nice Job.
— Review left May 12, 2019
If seeing the Grand Canyon is on your bucket list, this is a delightful way to do it.
— Review left May 8, 2019
Lovely Arizona! This trip combined the beauty of the area, knowledge of the formation of the land itself, and the history that helped shape this part of the Southwest. We spent two days in Sedona visiting and learning about the formation of those beautiful red/orange out cropings. The history of transportation and Arizona's settlement was enjoyed by two train rides, one in the Verde Valley and one to the Grand Canyon. Two days at the Grand Canyon gave us ample time to walk part of the rim and be able to take pictures during different times of day. The many stories, our leader Paul told us, brought the country to life. There is so much to see and appreciate even in this very arid part of the United States.
— Review left April 20, 2019
This was an amazing "Out West Experience."
— Review left April 14, 2019
This is an outstanding and educational program even if you have been to the Grand Canyon before. The lecturer really taught us about the geology, and the tour leader was outstanding.
— Review left April 3, 2019
Should be more diverse nationality of people, I apologize, nothing wrong but we need diversity in the participants statistic for Road Scholar.
— Review left March 24, 2019
This trip fulfilled my dream to see Sedona and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
— Review left March 24, 2019
