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Train
Weddings: Something Very Different
by Norm
Goldman
Artwork by Lily
Azerad-Goldman
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1
VERDE CANYON RAILROAD
The first of our experiences was the Verde Canyon Railroad that
describes itself as "Arizona’s longest-running nature
show"- and that it is! The four-hour ride begins in Clarkdale,
Arizona, an easy 25-minute drive from Sedona.
Once you board the train, and without sacrificing comfort, you
are treated to the most glorious riparian wilderness and wildlife,
as the train winds around the Verde River, revealing areas that
are otherwise not easily accessible. The restored vintage train
cars are powered by a rare 1953 FP-7 diesel engines.
Along the way passengers encounter magnificent waterfalls, majestic
trees, crystal clear waters, wildflowers, wildlife, golden and
bald eagles, numerous waterfowl, Sinagua Indian ruins, spectacular
rock formations and steep canyon cliffs. This spectacular show
is all situated within the confines of a wild and near-pristine
ecosystem and the Sycamore Wilderness Area. You even pass through
an awesome 680-foot man-made tunnel.
It truly is, as Teresa A. Propeck, Marketing Director, indicated
to me, "not the destination, it’s the journey,"
and a perfect backdrop for marriage proposals, wedding anniversaries
or weddings.
Propeck indicated to me: "it is amazing how much people enjoy
saying their vows out on our open-air cars. The most popular spot
is our 150 high-bridge. We stop the train on the bridge with each
journey, but if there is a ceremony, we make sure that car is
positioned on the bridge, and they do their vows while we sit
there. The rest of the train gets a big kick out of it as well."
 The
train’s personnel enjoy very much being part of romantic
events, and are always delighted to oblige in providing the necessary
enhancements to make the event memorable.
With advance notice,
you can even charter an entire railway car for your party.
continued on page
three Weddings on the
Grand Canyon Railway
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