PebbleCreek Democrats Explore the Verde River Valley

Judy Hart

Fall colors were at their height in October for the more than one dozen members of the PebbleCreek Democratic Club who enjoyed two nights and three days in Cottonwood, Ariz. and the surrounding area. All participants agreed that the accommodations at the Tavern Hotel exceeded their expectations and that the meals in Old Town Cottonwood were perfect.

The focus of the outing was a trip on the Verde Canyon Railroad, round-trip from Clarkdale to Perkinsville. The trip included reserved inside seats, a champagne toast, and onboard hors d’oeuvres. Passengers were also free to utilize the adjacent, open-air viewing car. The conductor provided narrative along the way of the area’s geology, pointing out remnants of what was once a robust copper mining area, as well as homestead sites of families who are a significant part of the area’s history. Preserved Indian ruins dating back to 600 BC were visible.

Last year’s trips were canceled due to the pandemic, but plans are in motion for more adventures in 2022. Stay tuned!