Few attractions in the world have left me speechless, and even fewer have brought tears. But the beauty of the first sight of the Grand Canyon did exactly that. It is so big that its depth and width can hardly be understood; so gracious and yet full of danger.
grand canyon train tour - view from grand canyon village
My first view - from the Grand Canyon Village
The Grand Canyon has been on my ‘bucket list‘ for some time, and to make the trip even more special, I chose to do the “Rails to Rim” experience offered by the Grand Canyon Railway based out of Williams, Arizona, about 65 miles south of the Grand Canyon.
The trip was superb in all ways and means, and a value luxury experience as well. Here’s a full trip report to help you plan you own rails-to-rim adventure.
Welcome to Williams, Arizona
Your Grand Canyon train tour will start in Williams, Arizona, which is a relatively short drive from Flagstaff or Sedona (and a relatively long drive from Phoenix, but do-able). The tiny town of Williams may seem like a little bit like “nowhere,” but this was a wild town back in its heyday. Williams has become much more in fashion as of late with a resurgence in the popularity of Route 66, which runs right through the town.
Since the train departs daily at 9:30AM from Williams, you’ll want to arrive the night before (or two, if you want to sample some Williams nightlife – it is home to the oldest bar in Arizona). The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, right next to the station, is the perfect place for a comfortable night’s sleep. This is not the original railway hotel, which would have had much smaller rooms and few amenities; you’ll appreciate the small luxuries now available in every room, like a TV and free Wifi. :-)
All Aboard – Your Train is Departing
The Grand Canyon Railway uses refurbished equipment for their train tour service, which means each and every car is slightly different, in its own unique way.
The first thing to know about the train is the classes of service. I suggest luxury parlor class, first class, or observation dome class. These classes are well worth the upgrade and allow much more comfortable seating, as well as some freedom to move about the train and explore. Complimentary snacks and soft drinks/tea/coffee are provided, as well as a cash bar.
Unlike the Durango-Silverton, the Grand Canyon Railway isn’t full of dramatic scenery en route. It’s much more relaxing and laid-back, almost as if getting your senses ready for the unreal scenery at the canyon. Sit back, relax, enjoy the occasional entertainer that strolls through your car, and savor the 2 hour, 15 minute ride.
It's not as dramatic, but it's still pretty.
The train disembarks from right in the middle of Grand Canyon Village and makes a return journey to Williams at 3:30PM. I noticed on my trip that many travelers got off the train, immediately boarded a bus, and were whisked away for quick tours of the canyon. If you are really pressed for time, this is an option, but I strongly encourage spending the night at the canyon – at least one night, but two would be better. Some of the best sights are on the fringes of the park, and you just can’t get to them (and back!) in a couple of hours.
The railway offers some very good packages, which will overnight you in Maswik Lodge, a very comfortable spot that’s just a few minutes from the village and canyon trails.
The Grand Canyon Village was originally built as a destination for tourist train passengers, and the train was built to make the journey more comfortable – I hear the stagecoaches found the road into the canyon a bit too bumpy! The first train departure from Williams to the Grand Canyon was in 1901.
While in the Grand Canyon Village
grand canyon train tour - a grand canyon sunset
A Grand Canyon Sunset (another reason to spend the night!)
I’ll share a photo essay on Wednesday, highlighting some of my favorite scenic views of the Grand Canyon from here on what they call the “south rim.” However, there are some great experiences to be had in the village itself while you are here. Some suggestions:
Dining: Two of the most popular dining areas in the village are the Arizona Room and El Tovar, the latter being the best and the most popular, thus, reservations required. I also have a soft spot for the soda/ice cream fountain at Bright Angel Lodge.
History: The “Trail of Time” is one of my favorite historical sights, an outdoor interpretive exhibit which explains the history of the canyon, in a easy-to-understand, visual way. The history room at Bright Angel Lodge is also an insight into tourism pioneer Fred Harvey, whose influence was very instrumental here in the village. Also Desert View has some unique views and its own history to tell.
Hiking: There are so many great hikes in this area, it’s hard to choose a favorite. Many readers suggested that I try Ooh Ahh Point, which was well worth it! If you aren’t feeling so confident about venturing beyond the cliff, the Rim Trail runs for miles and is very picturesque, while not being too strenuous.
Lastly, you’re probably wondering: how do you get around if you don’t have a car?
A car is somewhat of a liability here in the canyon, since space is a premium. The park operates a system of very, very well organized shuttles that take you everywhere you need to go, and they’re free – paid for by your park entry fee, which was included with your train ticket. Otherwise, you can easily walk pretty much anywhere you need to go – most points in the village are less than 10 minutes from each other.