All aboard! If you’re looking for an incredible, unique way to see the majesty of Mendocino’s old-growth redwood trees, you’ll find it in the historic Skunk Train.
Built as a logging railroad in 1885, the Skunk Train is a Mendocino institution. Named after the odor the motorcars used to emit as they would approach (thankfully no longer the case), the Skunk now serves as a sightseeing railroad.
Explore old-growth redwoods on board a historic train in the heart of the Mendocino Coast
There are many ways to ride. From Fort Bragg, the Pudding Creek Express runs year-round along the estuary to Glen Blair Junction, with a Redwood Presidential Class option, the Hike to the Glen, the Glen Blair Bar car, and Days of Steam behind a steam locomotive in summer. From Willits, the Wolf Tree Turn climbs into the redwoods, and the Pumpkin Express and Christmas Tree Train run in season. There is no longer a through trip between Fort Bragg and Willits. The newest way to see the line is by railbike: electric-assist two-seaters that pedal the Pudding Creek or Noyo River tracks, with a dog trailer available and a moonlight ride on Saturday nights. It is an entirely dog-friendly trip as well.
Throughout the year the Skunk Train also offers some of Mendocino’s best seasonal events. For the foodie, there’s the world-renowned Mushroom, Wine, and Beer Train – where visitors take a scenic train ride to the camp where they will feast on mushroom dishes from local chefs and taste local wines and beer. For families looking for a once-in-a-lifetime way to spend the holidays, there’s the festive Christmas Train – here riders are welcome to wear their pajamas, as they enjoy holiday treats and beverages, join in caroling, meet Santa’s helpers, and eventually are greeted by Santa himself!
Even a normal trip on the Skunk Train is far from ordinary. Your conductor will share some of the logging history of the Mendocino Coast with you during your journey, and beloved “Train Singer” Greg Schindel may make his way up and down the cars singing old-timey tunes while accompanying himself on guitar and harmonica. An open-air car offers some of the best views of the redwoods and the beautiful Noyo River, and even on rainier days the Skunk Train is a great way to see the redwoods while staying dry.
Great for the Family, Dog-friendly, a Rainy Day
Skunk Train
100 West Laurel Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
(707) 964-6371
www.skunktrain.com