The Magical Christmas Journey® — Verde Canyon Railroad

The Verde Canyon Railroad runs The Magical Christmas Journey® from its depot in Clarkdale, Arizona, as a one-hour round trip to the North Pole and back. The operator says the story is based on a storybook that includes Princess Noel, a kind-hearted girl who transforms into a princess, Flurry, a real bald eagle, Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves and canyon critters.

Before boarding, guests can enjoy festive activities at the depot: Luminarias along the roofline, giant ornaments in the pavilion, Santa’s elves telling the tale, Flurry the bald eagle, who greets children with wing-flapping lessons, and Princess Noel, who autographs the children’s Magical Christmas Journey® book. At the depot’s miniature Bird’s-Eye Village children can slip on eagle wings and “fly” through a tiny town.

The train rides into the dark of night, through an enchanted illuminated tunnel and onto “Santa’s Secret Tracks” to the North Pole, passing Santa’s Workshop, Mrs. Claus’ Bakery, Reindeer Flight School, the Ugly Sweater Factory and the Naughty Kids’ Coal Mine. Santa then hops on for the ride back and gives each child a little memento. Coaches and open-air viewing cars are ornamented inside and out, with elves entertaining on board and seasonal drinks served. A caboose can be chartered for a small group.

Festive activities at the depot, then a one-hour round trip into the dark of night through an illuminated tunnel to a North Pole village, with elves on board and seasonal drinks, and Santa riding back with the children and giving each a small gift. Passengers stay on the train for the entire journey.

Departs from the Verde Canyon Railroad depot, 300 N. Broadway, Clarkdale, Arizona. All guests must be checked in at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure; only guests present at check-in are given tickets. Trains run in rain or snow, and each car has a restroom. Strollers, child car seats, coolers and outside food are not allowed on board, and pets are not allowed. Manual wheelchairs up to 24.5 inches wide can be accommodated; motorized chairs and scooters cannot. Alcohol cannot be brought on board but is sold on the train. An optional VIP Kids’ Club add-on is offered at checkout.