Featured Article - Autumn 2008
All Aboard for the Grand Canyon
Candy B. Harrington
Grand Canyon Railway steam engine
photo by Charles Pannell
When the Grand Canyon Railway welcomed its first passengers in 1901, it made the popular national park more geographically accessible. Previously, the fastest way to reach the South Rim was to endure an eight-hour stagecoach ride from Flagstaff. The train replaced that arduous journey with a 2.5-hour trip from Williams. Today, over 100 years later, it’s just as quick to drive. But that’s not the point. Admittedly, there’s something to be said for the quality of the journey; and that’s where the Grand Canyon Railway excels.
With daily departures from Williams, this historic railway offers passengers a look back at the old west, as the train chugs through 65 miles of changing scenery; from high desert to prairie to pine forest. Customer service hasn’t been overlooked either, with creature comforts such air conditioning and champagne available in many classes; and helpful attendants on hand in all cars.
And best of all, access upgrades have been added to the restored railcars, so everyone can enjoy this fun excursion. So if you’re considering a visit to the place Teddy Roosevelt claimed “every American should see”, then make plans to hop aboard the Grand Canyon Railway.
Where it All Begins
With a wide variety of land and rail packages available, The Grand Canyon Railway is more than just a train trip; in fact, it can be an all-inclusive vacation. Of course, you can just buy a train ticket; however, you can also opt for a two- or three-night package with overnight lodging in Williams or the Grand Canyon. Some packages even include meals. The possibilities are endless; but most folks opt to spend at least one night at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams.
The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel has eight accessible rooms, including three with a roll-in shower. There is accessible parking near the entrance and level access to the lobby. The accessible rooms have wide doorways, good pathway access, lowered closet rods, lever handles and a lowered peephole. The beds are 24.5-inches high; a doable height for many people.
The bathrooms in the accessible guest rooms are especially well done, with a full five-foot turning radius and a roll-in shower or a tub/shower combination. Other access features include a hand-held showerhead, grab bars in the shower and around the toilet, a portable shower bench and a roll-under sink.
Access to all public areas—including Max & Thelma’s Restaurant and Spenser’s Lounge—is excellent. The former boasts a hearty buffet for all three meals, while the latter offers a light bar menu and an ample selection of spirits. Like everything else at the Grand Canyon Railway, there’s something to suit every taste here.
The Train
Train Robber!
photo by Charles Pannell
Train buffs are wowed by the vintage train cars, which are pulled by a steam engine during the summer and a diesel locomotive the rest of the year. There are five classes of service, with coach and first class being the most accessible.
The Pullman coach cars have bench seats and windows that open, while the Budd coach cars have bench seats and air conditioning. The first-class cars have comfortable reclining seats, large windows and air conditioning. All three types of cars can be accessed by a portable lift and they all have wheelchair tie-downs, nearby companion seats and a restroom with grab bars, a wide doorway and ample room to transfer. Power outlets are located near the accessible seats and the lifts are large enough to accommodate scooters and heavy power wheelchairs.
The parlor car and the observation dome are also accessible by the portable lift; however both are more appropriate for slow walkers. The parlor car has table and chair seating, with no tie-downs, so a transfer is necessary; while the observation dome has seven steps to the top. And of course, if you just can’t make up your mind, you can always mix classes; and take one class going up and another on the return trip.
The reservation and on-board staff is very accommodating, so make sure and let them know if you have any access needs; especially if you are a slow walker or your disability isn’t apparent. They are also happy to answer questions and even provide suggestions to help make your trip more comfortable.
Read the rest of this article in the Autumn 2008 issue of Emerging Horizons. Subscribe today!