Mendocino

Inside the Magic:
Skunk Train

Since 1885 the Skunk Train has been transporting visitors and goods through the redwood forests of Mendocino County. These epic train journeys continue, but the Skunk Train offers so much more now as well – with a secret speakeasy accessible only by train, unique motor-assisted Railbikes, guided hikes through the redwoods, and seasonal offerings for the whole family! Come with us as we explore the magic of the Skunk!

The Skunk Train offers classic train journeys out of depots located in both Fort Bragg (on the Mendocino Coast) and Willits (conveniently located just off the 101 inland). The Pudding Creek Express out of Fort Bragg takes you along the first tracks ever laid down by the California Western Railroad in 1885, stopping at Glen Blair where there’s a stunning pavilion and you can enjoy a brief hike in the redwoods, snacks, beverages (adult and kid-friendly), or just relax at a picnic table. The Wolf Tree Turn trip out of Willits ascends to Summit, passes through a tunnel, and stops at Crowley, where you can also enjoy a hike and picnic.

You won’t want to miss the Skunk Train’s unique Railbike excursions! These two-person, pedal-powered but electric-assisted Railbikes are such a fun and different way to see the redwoods! They offer a shorter trip to Glen Blair and back (7 miles roundtrip), and a half-day trip (25 miles roundtrip) along (and over) the Noyo River to Camp Noyo. If you have time, this longer Railbikes on the Noyo excursion really is a bucketlist item – truly magical.

Nestled deep in the redwood groves of Mendocino County, there’s an absolutely magical bar – and it’s accessible only by train (or Railbike)! This is the Glen Blair Bar, which on select weekends comes alive with twinkling lights, firepits, live music, and of course incredible libations. You won’t want to miss this bucketlist speakeasy!

During the summer months the Skunk Train runs a historic steam engine out of its Fort Bragg Depot. This is a very special experience for the train lover in your life – traveling along this historic route, over wooden trestle bridges, past stands of ancient redwoods, it’s a way to experience the heritage of Mendocino County and the rail history of the United States that’s unmatched.

The Skunk Train also has built a world-class set of trails that parallel the tracks, and at times diverge to explore some of the most stunning redwood groves at Glen Blair. Their guided tour is docent-led, includes a picnic, and is a fantastic way to learn more about this unique biome (it’s also pet- and child-friendly!).

Throughout the year the Skunk Train also hosts seasonal trains that are sure to brighten up your holiday. Most famously is the trip to Mr. Skunk’s Giant Christmas Tree (the tallest living Christmas tree in the world!), and throughout October you can go to a magical pumpkin patch deep in the redwoods aboard the Pumpkin Express. Check their website for up-to-date info on seasonal trains throughout the year – as well as other special offerings (like whiskey trains!). There’s so much magic to discover here!

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