Rail and the Growth of Goodyear
Railroads helped shape the development of Arizona, and they remain essential to the state's economy today. In the West Valley, rail lines carry building materials, agricultural products, consumer goods, and industrial inputs that feed the region's booming construction and manufacturing sectors. Rail-served industrial sites in and around Goodyear and neighboring Buckeye are increasingly attractive to companies that move heavy or bulk products.
For travelers, Arizona also offers memorable passenger and scenic rail experiences, from long-distance Amtrak routes to historic excursions through canyons and forests. Here are the ten best railway operators for West Valley shippers and travelers.
The 10 Best Railway Operators
1. Union Pacific Railroad
Union Pacific is the largest railroad in the western United States and operates the main line that runs through the Phoenix area and west through the Buckeye and Goodyear region. Its network connects Arizona with California, Texas, and Mexico gateways, supporting manifest, intermodal, and bulk freight for industrial customers.
2. BNSF Railway
BNSF operates the Phoenix Subdivision, linking the Valley to its transcontinental main line in northern Arizona. Shippers in the West Valley use BNSF for access to Southern California ports, the Midwest, and the Pacific Northwest, especially for intermodal and industrial freight.
3. Amtrak
Amtrak's Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle routes serve the nearby Maricopa station, connecting the Phoenix region to Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Antonio, and Chicago. The Southwest Chief serves Flagstaff to the north. Amtrak Thruway connections help travelers reach these stations.
4. Valley Metro Rail
Valley Metro's light rail system connects Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa with frequent, affordable service. Goodyear residents can drive to park-and-ride stations to reach downtown Phoenix, Arizona State University, and Sky Harbor via the PHX Sky Train connection.
5. Grand Canyon Railway
Operating between Williams and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, this historic railway offers vintage cars, live entertainment, and a relaxing way to visit one of the world's natural wonders. It is a favorite family trip for West Valley residents.
6. Verde Canyon Railroad
Departing from Clarkdale, the Verde Canyon Railroad travels through a stunning canyon between towering red rock cliffs. With open-air viewing cars and seasonal wildlife sightings, it is one of Arizona's most scenic rail experiences.
7. Arizona and California Railroad
This short line railroad operates in western Arizona and eastern California, serving industrial and agricultural customers. It provides important connections for shippers in rural regions west of the Phoenix metro area.
8. Arizona Eastern Railway
Arizona Eastern serves mining and industrial customers in eastern Arizona and connects with Union Pacific. Its role in moving copper and related materials highlights rail's importance to the state's resource economy.
9. Copper Basin Railway
The Copper Basin Railway serves the mining district southeast of Phoenix. Short lines like Copper Basin bridge the gap between local industries and national rail networks.
10. Genesee and Wyoming
Genesee and Wyoming owns and operates many short line railroads across North America, including lines in Arizona. Its focus on customer service and first-mile and last-mile rail connections helps smaller shippers access the national network.
How Businesses Can Benefit from Rail
Rail is often the most cost-effective way to move heavy, bulky, or high-volume freight over long distances. Companies shipping lumber, steel, aggregates, plastics, or packaged goods can lower transportation costs and reduce emissions by shifting freight from truck to rail. Transload facilities in the Phoenix area allow even businesses without their own rail spur to take advantage of rail economics.
When evaluating rail options, consider access to rail-served sites, transit times, intermodal terminal locations, and the availability of transload partners.
Rail Trends in Arizona
Arizona continues to explore expanded passenger rail, including long-discussed proposals for service between Phoenix and Tucson. Freight railroads are investing in precision scheduling, longer sidings, and technology that improves reliability. Rail-served industrial parks in the West Valley are drawing manufacturers, and intermodal service is gaining importance as supply chains seek more sustainable options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can passengers catch a train directly in Goodyear?
There is currently no Amtrak station in Goodyear. The closest long-distance service is at Maricopa, south of Phoenix, and Valley Metro Rail operates in Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. Many residents drive to a station or use connecting bus service.
Is rail a good option for small shippers?
Yes, especially through transload facilities, where freight is transferred between trucks and railcars. This lets companies without their own rail spur benefit from lower long-distance rail costs for heavy or bulky materials.
Which scenic train trip is best for families?
The Grand Canyon Railway is a favorite for families thanks to its entertainment, comfortable cars, and arrival at the South Rim. The Verde Canyon Railroad is ideal for travelers who want dramatic canyon scenery and open-air viewing cars.
Final Thoughts
From the Union Pacific main line rolling through the West Valley to scenic excursions through red rock canyons, rail remains a vital part of life in Arizona. Businesses in Goodyear can tap into Class I and short line networks for efficient freight movement, while residents can enjoy everything from light rail commutes to unforgettable trips to the Grand Canyon.