Touring on the Grand Canyon Railway

If you are looking for a fun way to tour the Grand Canyon, with breathtaking views and without having to worry about finding parking, the Grand Canyon Railway can provide you with a great experience. The tour leaves from Williams, AZ, and offers a rather convenient way to get to the park. It is also a fun and unique way to get to, and enjoy, the park.

Williams is located 65 miles from the Grand Canyon, so you are far enough away from the big crowds to enjoy your stay and see what else Northern Arizona has to offer. The train ride is relaxing, and offers Western characters (including bandits riding along side the train) and musicians. Not to mention the view as you travel through some spectacular landscapes. There is a three and a half hour layover when you arrive, so that offers plenty of time to see the sites. And the Grand Canyon Railway doesn’t just drop you there. Fully narrated motor coach tours are offered by the company. You can see what there is to see in style, without having to walk around, fighting the crowds. And you can even have lunch.

There are four classes for the ride to the Grand Canyon. You can also designate a different class for the return trip. They are as follows, with prices for adults (17 and up), youth (11-16) and child (2-10):

• Coach ($60, $35, $25): This features restored 1923 Harriman train cars. Coke is provided in a keepsake bottle. You can upgrade ($80, $55, $45) to a bar and coffee, juice and pastries.

• First Class ($120, $95, $85): Recliner chairs are provided, as well as a continental breakfast for the trip out and appetizers for the return journey.

• Deluxe Observation ($145, $120, no children under 11): This is the upper level of the first class Coconino car. There is an enclosed glass dome area that allows for amazing views. Breakfast in the morning and appetizers in the afternoon, plus a special keepsake for passengers to take home.

• Luxury Parlor ($155, $130, no children under 11): Passengers ride in the Chief car, which is very elegant in true early 20th Century style. Seating is limited, as there are only 25 overstuffed armchairs. There is an open air platform at the back, and the photo opportunities of the landscape are amazing. A keepsake is provided, along with breakfast and appetizers.

Once at the Grand Canyon, if you like you can take a narrated tour. These narrated tours are only offered to Grand Canyon Railway passengers. Others must be content with Park shuttles and their own feet. There are two options, priced as adult and youth & child:

• The Grand Tour ($39, $29): This tour takes three hours. You won’t have much time to wander on your own, but you will avoid most of the hot, dusty crowds. Stops are made at all of the main scenic overlooks at the Grand Canyon, including trips to points on the East Rim and the West Rim. A buffet lunch is provided.

• The Freedom Tour ($29, $19): If you want free time with your guided tour, this option is a nice idea. You can see different viewpoints over the 1.5-hour tour, and you are provided with a box lunch.