In late October my wife and I spent a couple days in Williams, AZ and the Grand Canyon. Since we were taking the GC RR train in the morning we stayed in the oldest building in town, the Grand Canyon Hotel. We like older buildings with some history; it was centrally located downtown; and it was less expensive then the popular Grand Canyon Railway Hotel that is part of the GC RR operation - both operated by Xanterra. It was perfect for a quick overnight and there was a very good restaurant, the Red Raven, next door.
Downtown Williams and our hotel
As were getting settled in our room I heard a steam whistle. That launched me down the street to the station. It seems this was the weekend that Trains magazine had a photo charter on the GC RR. I got to the station as it backed in. It was followed by the Pumpkin Patch special that goes a few miles out of town for the kiddies to 'pick' pumpkins. It was being pulled by one of their famous Alco FPA units, now used only for specials.
I had contacted forum member, greatcats, who was able to meet us for dinner. We had a great conversation and, as a former NP Tour guide, he gave us great insight in how to spend our time wisely at the GC. The next morning our hotel host recommended Annie's, a local hangout, for breakfast. It was fabulous. We then dropped our bags at the GC Railway Hotel. Xanterra took care of it from there as we were taking their train. Once we arrived at our room at the Bright Angel Lodge, our bag was already there.
The train had GC RR newer power, two F-40 engines along with modified ex RDC as coaches and 4 dome cars plus the open platform observation on the rear. Heading up that frosty morning we were in the economy coaches. While very utilitarian, they were fine for the 2.5 hr trip, especially since the cafe car was near so we could get more coffee. We arrived the Grand Canyon a little before noon and headed for the hotel, a very short walk (but up a few stairs). To be continued....
Downtown Williams and our hotel
As were getting settled in our room I heard a steam whistle. That launched me down the street to the station. It seems this was the weekend that Trains magazine had a photo charter on the GC RR. I got to the station as it backed in. It was followed by the Pumpkin Patch special that goes a few miles out of town for the kiddies to 'pick' pumpkins. It was being pulled by one of their famous Alco FPA units, now used only for specials.
I had contacted forum member, greatcats, who was able to meet us for dinner. We had a great conversation and, as a former NP Tour guide, he gave us great insight in how to spend our time wisely at the GC. The next morning our hotel host recommended Annie's, a local hangout, for breakfast. It was fabulous. We then dropped our bags at the GC Railway Hotel. Xanterra took care of it from there as we were taking their train. Once we arrived at our room at the Bright Angel Lodge, our bag was already there.
The train had GC RR newer power, two F-40 engines along with modified ex RDC as coaches and 4 dome cars plus the open platform observation on the rear. Heading up that frosty morning we were in the economy coaches. While very utilitarian, they were fine for the 2.5 hr trip, especially since the cafe car was near so we could get more coffee. We arrived the Grand Canyon a little before noon and headed for the hotel, a very short walk (but up a few stairs). To be continued....
Attachments
Last edited: