Escapism [ih-skey-piz-uhm]—The avoidance of reality by absorption of the mind in entertainment or an imaginative situation, activity, etc. Yep, that seems to be the theme for surviving 2020. And our ticket to ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad filled the bill. 

It was Katherine’s idea. The cottonwoods, willows, and sycamore trees were alive with color, temps were in the 70’s, and we sprung for first class. So worth it. 

Before meeting up with Kat at the depot, Dave and I visited the Arizona Copper Art Museum; an impressive museum focused on the history of copper in art and industry.

The Clarkdale Depot had strict Covid protocols, as did the train itself (complete with HEPA filters). An abundance of masks dotted the landscape. A plump roadrunner kept everyone entertained while we enjoyed a quick lunch. As we explored the depot, the town of Jerome could be seen in the distance.

We departed for our 3.5-hour adventure at 1 pm. Our cushy, first-class accommodations provided champagne and hors d‘oeuvres, marking the occasion. After a quick toast, Dave, Katherine, and I made our way to the viewing deck where we stayed for the bulk of our 40-mile journey—which would take us roundtrip from Clarkdale to the Perkinsville junction.

Verde Canyon Railroad has a storied history. In 1888, entrepreneur William A. Clark invested 60 million dollars into United Verde Copper Company stock. Shrewd move. By 1892, the company netted a million dollars a month. In 1911, Clark financed the construction of a 38-mile standard gauge railroad from Drake to his namesake town of Clarkdale. Known as the Verde Mix, it carried a diverse mixture of products and people. Through 1930, Yavapai County was the sixth leading copper producer in the country—however, by 1962, the final two smelters had blown—marking the end of an era.

As we wound our way along the Verde River, we were treated with folklore and history from the area and serenaded by just about every train song imaginable. Seriously—no repeats.

In the distance, Sedona and the Mogollon Rim put the finishing touches on the expansive landscape. 

We arrived at the Perkinsville Junction as Petticoat Junction played, then headed Homeward Bound.

Escapism is a beautiful diversion and comes highly recommended.