This Historic Steam Train Has Been Taking Travelers to the Grand Canyon for 125 Years-and It Just Added More Dates

"Each morning, the Grand Canyon Railway leaves the Williams train depot and makes its way over the vast Kaibab Plateau to the national park, giving travelers three hours to explore before making the return journey to Williams. Most trains are pulled by regular diesel-powered locomotives, but on select dates, travelers can experience what it's like to ride behind a fully-restored vintage steam locomotive that dates back to the early 1900s."

"This year, in celebration of the train's 125th anniversary, more steam-powered departures have been added. From March to October, the steam train runs the first Saturday of the month, along with one other special operating day each month."

"In addition, Xanterra Travel Collection, the railway operator, has announced a new onboard program designed to enhance the historic journey to and from the Grand Canyon. In Coach, railroad attendants use items like railroad spikes and timetables to bring the historic experience to life, while the cars themselves feature new interior graphics of the Grand Canyon."

The Grand Canyon Railway has operated continuously for 125 years, beginning in 1901 before the Grand Canyon became a national park. The railway departs daily from Williams, Arizona, traveling 65 miles across the Kaibab Plateau to the South Rim, providing visitors approximately three hours to explore the canyon. Most journeys use diesel locomotives, though select dates feature fully-restored vintage steam locomotives from the early 1900s. To celebrate the 125th anniversary, additional steam-powered departures have been scheduled from March to October. Xanterra Travel Collection, the railway operator, has introduced new onboard programs featuring railroad attendants who use historic artifacts and interior graphics to enhance the experience. The journey passes notable sites including The Fray Marcos Hotel and the San Francisco Peaks.

Read at Travel + Leisure