SEDONA and CLARKDALE, Ariz., July 23, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verde Canyon Railroad’s ode to Oktoberfest, “ Ales on Rails ”, has long been a highlight of the autumn calendar, since 2003 bringing both rail fans and ale fans together to celebrate the season. In past years what was once strictly an October weekend event has expanded to include Thursdays and Fridays as well, to satisfy the demand of those seeking the hoppy flavors of fall.  For 2018 “Ales on Rails” has officially popped its top! In addition to starting in September, just as Germany’s Oktoberfest does, it is now a daily event taking place every date the train runs from September 18 through October 31. 

Featuring a wide selection of fine Arizona-brewed craft beers by the taste or by the glass, and a scrumptious luncheon, it’s a party on the depot patio 11:00am-12:45pm, prior to the train’s 1:00pm departure. Ales on Rails features an optional lunch of grilled sausages, special-recipe potato salad and hot pretzels served with a gourmet cheeses perfect for dipping. All pair well with Arizona beers making it easy to find a winning combination. The celebration continues on board the train as the specialty beers, including Verde Canyon Railroad’s own private-label beers from Sedona’s Oak Creek Brewing Company, are stocked up for purchase during the four-hour wilderness ride. What better season offers the perfect reason to savor the Arizona outdoors than Autumn? Fall is a premier time to visit the Verde Canyon, with temperatures generally ideal and the foliage growing ever more golden as the days roll towards November.

The train provides a comfortable and exciting journey as it travels a leisurely four hours from the charming Clarkdale depot to the ghost ranch at Perkinsville and back. Awe-inspiring rock formations, historic trestles, a 680-foot tunnel, ancient cliff dwellings and soaring raptors are just a few of the trip’s many highlights. First-class cars boast plush seating, complimentary appetizers and a full-service bar. Coach offers vintage Pullman-style seating, panoramic windows and snack bars. Everyone has access to open-air viewing cars offering 360-degree views and spectacular photographic opportunities.

A stone’s throw from the hillside mining town of Jerome, Verde Canyon Railroad’s Clarkdale depot is in the heart of the Verde Valley , a diverse crossroads featuring amazing adventures in every direction. Only two hours from Phoenix and 25 minutes from Sedona, Verde Canyon Railroad is the perfect Arizona day trip. Reservations are accepted at 800.293.7245 or online at verdecanyonrr.com.

It’s Not the Destination, It’s the Journey

Contact: Teresa Propeck  
Phone: 623-374-3185 Reservations: 800-293-7245
tpropeck@ verdecanyonrr.net   www.VerdeCanyonRR.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/Attachm...8903223084