The Payson (Ariz.) Roundup published an interesting article about the history and features of the Grand Canyon Railway.
Embarking from the Route 66 town of Williams, Ariz., it’s a popular and scenic way to head to the Grand Canyon.
A few interesting things about the railway that I didn’t know:
- This year marks its 20th anniversary, although the original rail line is more than 100 years old.
- Xanterra, owner of the railway, also owns the railroad equipment of the Grand Luxe Railway, formerly the famed American Orient Express. It is rumored, the newspaper reports, that Xanterra will rebuild the luxury train and use it to travel to national parks.
- An early 1900s steam engine was rebuilt by the Grand Canyon Railway and now runs on reconstituted vegetable oil.
- Next month, the railway will begin its re-creation of “The Polar Express” children’s book and movie. “The Polar Express Train leaves from the Williams depot at 6:30 p.m. each evening through the holidays and travels to a brightly lit set designed to appear to be the North Pole. The children see Santa and his helpers as they wave to the passengers. Upon departure, Santa comes aboard and presents each child with special gift.”
Our family did the Polar Express last year – made for a great excuse to visit a snow-covered segment of 66 right before Christmas. Much fun for everyone (well, except for that slippery whiteout drive down Ash Fork hill one night…)