Railroads and Cowboys

Wednesday, April 22

Our group met at the Verde Canyon Railroad Station for a picnic lunch.  After exploring the gift shop and the museum, we boarded our car for a trip into the past.

 

 

 

The railroad is over 100 years old and travels from the old mining town of Clarksdale to the Perkins Ghost Ranch.  The FP7 locomotives are two of only 10 remaining in North America.

 

 

Traveling either in the open air car or seated inside we passed miles of undisturbed wilderness and ancient geology, an abundance of native flora, rugged high desert rock faces, crimson pinnacles and beautiful vistas.

 

 

 

 

A narration about the history, archaeology, geology, wildlife and Indian lore played as we traveled along enjoying the beauty of two National Forests, a national wilderness area and a 650 foot manmade tunnel.

 

 

 

 

From the train station we traveled to the Blazin’ M Ranch.  Originally setteled as a cattle ranch in the late 1800’s, it was purchased by the Maybery family in 1966. They did some cattle ranching and then grew and sold organic vegetables.  In 1993 a flood washed away viable farmland.  The Maberys turned to other skills and talents, mainly music and created their western venue where they feed and entertain hundreds of people each evening.



First we explored their little western setting.........

 

Caravan Wash Day

 Followed by a great chuck wagon dinner accompanied by some Arizona wines.......

 

 

 

Then came the songs and laughter.........