If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, look no further than the Grand Canyon Railway’s Steam Saturdays. On the first Saturday of every month from March through September, visitors can take a step back in time with a vintage steam-powered train ride to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
The Journey
The journey begins in Williams, Arizona, where passengers board the train and are transported to a bygone era. The train is pulled by one of the Grand Canyon Railway’s historic steam locomotives, which were originally built in the early 1900s. These locomotives have been lovingly restored and maintained over the years, ensuring that they are still able to operate today.
FUN FACT: Back in 2009, the Grand Canyon Railway came up with the idea to burn nearly carbon-neutral waste vegetable oil as fuel to keep the steam locomotives on the rails regularly, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants.
There’s something magical about hearing the whistle blow and feeling the power of these historic locomotives as they pull you along toward your destination. It’s an experience that truly sends you back in time and gives you a sense of what it must have been like to travel by train during America’s golden age. As the train moves along the tracks towards the Grand Canyon South Rim, passengers can sit back and relax while taking in stunning views of Arizona’s high desert landscape. The journey takes about two hours each way, giving riders plenty of time to soak up the scenery and enjoy all that this unique train ride experience has to offer.
Once you arrive at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll have more than three hours to explore this natural wonder at your leisure. Whether you choose to hike along one of the park’s many trails or simply take in the breathtaking views from one of its lookout points, there’s something for everyone here.
How to experience Steam Saturdays
If you’re interested in experiencing Steam Saturdays for yourself, be sure to plan ahead as tickets tend to sell out quickly. You can purchase tickets online or by calling 1-800-THE-TRAIN. And if you’re not able to make it on a Steam Saturday, don’t worry – the Grand Canyon Railway departs daily to the South Rim and oftentimes, you can catch a glimpse of the steam locomotive on the tracks at the depot.
Steam Saturdays 2024 Dates
March 2, 2024 – First Saturday
April 6, 2024 – First Saturday
April 20, 2024 – Earth Day
May 4, 2024 – First Saturday
June 1, 2024 – First Saturday
July 6, 2024 – First Saturday
August 3, 2024 – First Saturday
August 12, 2024 – Celebration of Steam Engine 4960’s Birthday
September 7, 2024 – First Saturday
September 21, 2024 – Celebration of Grand Canyon Railway’s Anniversary
October 5, 2024 – First Saturday
*Schedule is subject to change; please visit the Grand Canyon Railway’s website here for the latest schedule.
In addition to Steam Saturdays, Grand Canyon Railway also offers a variety of other experiences for visitors. From holiday-themed rides such as their popular Polar Express to motorcoach scenic tours to enhance your time at the South Rim.
So if you’re looking for an adventure that combines history, nature, and good old-fashioned fun, be sure to check out Grand Canyon Railway’s Steam Saturdays. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after your journey has ended.
