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Heritage train · Williams, Arizona
Grand Canyon Railway
Historic train that links Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon over about 105 km, with vintage cars, musicians and Old West characters on board. Leaves in the morning and returns in the late afternoon.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Grand Canyon Railway
The railway between Williams and the Grand Canyon was opened in 1901 by the Santa Fe company to bring tourists to the South Rim, and operated until 1968. It was reactivated in 1989 as a tourist train and today runs about 105 km nonstop between Williams’ historic station and the Grand Canyon Depot, a 1910 wooden station inside the park.
The journey takes just over two hours each way, crossing pine forests and open plateau country. On board, musicians play western songs and Old West characters stage a train robbery on the return trip. There are cars of several classes, from simple bench seating to dome cars with glass roofs.
In the most common schedule, the train departs in the morning, leaves about three hours at the South Rim, and returns in the late afternoon. The park station is a short walk from the rim, historic hotels and the Rim Trail. Part of the year features departures with a steam locomotive, and at year-end the train runs a separate Christmas-themed ride.
Train tickets may include park entry; check options when buying.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, round trip.
Best time
In spring and fall, for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in summer. Buy in advance for holidays and school breaks.
How to get there
The station is in downtown Williams, next to the tracks, with passenger parking.
Tip
Sit on the right side outbound to better see the open plateau scenery. With three hours at the rim, focus on the viewpoints near the station.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Grand Canyon Railway
How long is the Grand Canyon Railway trip?
Just over two hours each way for about 105 km between Williams and the South Rim. In the most common schedule, there are about three free hours in the park.
Does the Grand Canyon train run year-round?
It runs most of the year, with different timetables at year-end and special departures on some dates. Confirm the schedule before buying.
Can you return from the Grand Canyon on a different day?
Yes. You can buy one-way and return tickets for different dates and stay overnight inside the park, provided you have lodging reservations there.