Grand Canyon Railway

The Basics

For many, a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is a quintessential Grand Canyon experience. It’s possible to ride the railway one way, or choose a round-trip ticket that allows for almost four hours to explore the national park. Most travelers ride the passenger train as part of a day trip to the canyon from Williams, though it’s also possible to spend a night at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel or Maswik Lodge for a more leisurely exploration.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Grand Canyon Railway is popular among kids and families.

• Dress in layers and don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

• Both coach and first-class cars are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Grand Canyon Railways departs daily at 9:35am from Williams, Arizona. It makes the 65-mile (105-kilometer) trip to the Grand Canyon in a little over two hours, and once there, visitors have roughly four hours to explore before heading back toward Williams at 3:30pm. Expect to arrive at the Williams train depot around 5:45pm. The closest commercial airport to Williams is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, about 45 minutes away by road. Phoenix Sky Harbor is about 2.5 hours away by road.

When to Get There

The best time to ride the Grand Canyon Railway is during spring and autumn, when temperatures at the Grand Canyon are cooler and crowds more sparse than in the peak summer season when the train operates two departures daily. Summer visitors can expect temperatures upwards of 85°F (30­°C). The first Saturday of each month from March through October is Steam Saturday, when a steam locomotive pulls the train to Grand Canyon National Park.

Special Events Aboard the Grand Canyon Railway

Depending on the season, passengers might be in for a special treat on this historic train. In fall, kids can put on their favorite Halloween costume and ride the Pumpkin Patch Train for a journey through the countryside to a secret pumpkin patch. During the holidays, the railway transforms into the Polar Express, complete with a nighttime ride to see Santa and his reindeer.

Ways to explore

For many, a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is a quintessential Grand Canyon experience. It’s possible to ride the railway one way, or choose a round-trip ticket that allows for almost four hours to explore the national park. While most travelers ride the passenger train as part of a day trip from Williams to the canyon, some choose to spend a night at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel or Maswik Lodge for a more leisurely exploration.

Accessibility

Railcars are ADA-accessible, with accessible seating and restrooms onboard. The train lets riders off near the accessible South Rim.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, snacks, light jacket or sweater, cash for tips

What to wear

Casual clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat. Layers are definitely recommended; Williams sits at an elevation of 6,700 feet (2,042 meters).

Not allowed

Smoking, outside alcohol, weapons

Amenities

Snacks, beverages, and light meals from onboard cafe car; restrooms onboard; gift shop at the depot; complimentary shuttle service at Grand Canyon National Park

Address 

The Grand Canyon Railway departs from Williams, Arizona, about 60 miles south of Grand Canyon National Park. It’s easiest to get there in your own vehicle.

Driving

Williams is about a 40-minute drive from Flagstaff and a 2.5-hour drive from Phoenix. Once you arrive, there’s onsite parking at the depot.

Public transportation

Amtrak runs a bus from its Southwest Chief stop in Flagstaff to Williams, while Groome Transportation offers shuttle service from Flagstaff.

Best times to visit

The train departs daily at 9:30am from Williams and returns at 3:30pm, allowing about 4 hours at the canyon. If you can stay overnight at the park, definitely do so.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, as a general rule.

Best months to visit

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather at both Williams and the canyon rim, with moderate temperatures and thinner crowds.

Special events

Themed rides take place during holidays, like Halloween excursions and special Polar Express journeys during winter. Check the website to see what’s on during your visit.