Nostalgia & History > Does this operation still run ?

Back on Feb 6 2009 I was making my way east on US70 out of the Globe Az area. The tracks of the Ariznona Eastern were for this stretch of the trip, north of the Highway. After leaving Globe, I came upon this short Passenger Train being led by AZER GP35 2503. 3 Cars behind and not alot of speed. It stopped at the Apache Gold Casino which is loctaed off of US70 out this way. Guessing this is the RV Park/Casino/Camp Grounds of Apache Gold Casino. Having not been east of Globe since these shots, got to wondering whether or not it still runs? Anyone have any info as to if it does and if so, how often. All shots taken the same day 02-06-2009. Thanks for any replies.  Be well all.  Ben

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Nope.  Iowa Pacific (who ran these passenger operations) sold the AZER to Genesee & Wyoming in 2011.  That was the end of passenger operations.  Only lasted a few seasons.

neat you caught it, is the casino right across the parking lot?

dan Wrote:
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> neat you caught it, is the casino right across the
> parking lot?

If I recall correctly yes it is. To the right in shot 3. Ben

 I was the engineer on that train.

The "Copper Spike" was the only IPH excursion train that could be called a "success".  The last winter it ran, 2010-11 (?) it was sold out every day.  We were limited by the capacity of the equipment.  In other words we needed more cars.

Alas, IPH sold the Arizona Eastern to G&W, and the rest is history.  

The sale of the AZER was the beginning of the end for IPH.  The proceeds from from the sale (after the FRA loan was paid back) was used to finance to great Pullman Rail Journeys fiasco.  The bi problem that appearently no one thought of was that the AZER was overall a profitable enterprise.  The cash it generated kept IPH afloat and financed many of the not profitable operations - including the San Luis & Rio Grande's excursion and steam program.  Without that income, IPH starting into its death spiral.

But, it was fun while it lasted....

Earl!!
I rode the cab with you on the SP Black Widow E when our club brought the rail Cars to Globe.  Pictures of my Black Widow railcar nose to nose with your E, what great memories!!

Dave McClain