Eco-Friendly Steam Trains Revive Grand Canyon Service with Waste Oil

The 64-mile steam train from Williams to the Grand Canyon began in 1901. Now eco-friendly, it runs monthly.
Ecofriendly Grand Canyon Steam Train

Grand Canyon Railway: A Journey Through Time and Sustainability

Traveling by train to the Grand Canyon offers a unique blend of history and modern eco-consciousness. This 64-mile steam train journey from Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon began in 1901, with tickets priced at just $3.95—a stark contrast to the $15, eight-hour stagecoach ride over rough terrain.

By 2008, Grand Canyon Railway decided to retire their vintage steam locomotives due to their high consumption of 1,200 gallons of diesel and 12,000 gallons of water per round trip. However, a year later, they successfully revived the service in a more sustainable manner. Although a small amount of diesel is still necessary to start the boiler, the vintage trains can now operate using a variety of liquid fuels.

Once heated, the steam locomotives run on waste vegetable oil sourced from the Grand Canyon Railway’s restaurant and a supplier that collects used oil from eateries in Flagstaff and Phoenix. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also provides a renewable energy source for the trains.

To address potential environmental impacts from lubricant leaks, the train’s fittings and bearings are greased with mostly biodegradable products, including a lubricant made from animal fats specifically designed for steam locomotives. This ensures that any leaks are less harmful to the surrounding environment.

Water for the locomotives is collected using a rainwater runoff system and stored in empty rail cars to minimize evaporation. If needed, potable water from the City of Williams supplements this supply. Interestingly, the trains perform better with rainwater due to its lower dissolved mineral content.

While the train service runs daily to the Grand Canyon, the eco-friendly steam locomotive operates on the first Saturday of each month, from March to October, offering passengers a rare chance to experience this sustainable journey.

This Earth Note was written by Diane Hope and produced by KNAU and the Sustainable Communities Program at Northern Arizona University.


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