Family Vacation Guide Suzanne Remington |

Summer 2010 Family Vacation Guide ~ Suzanne Remington: Skunk Train in Mendocino County

nicole
07.07.10
Family Vacations, familyvacationguide, travel
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Skunk Train

As a family we love to explore, find new places to see and visit. As a rule we always try to include a train ride as part of our vacation plans.

I grew up riding buses and trains to get to school every day. You can learn so much from fauna & flora to basic mechanics & physics. As a bonus everyone can participate– no designated driver needed.

We are particularly fond of the Skunk Train in Mendocino County. This scenic train runs between the cities of Willits and Fort Bragg through some magnificent old growth California Redwood groves. Moving at a leisurely pace, the trains pull covered cars as well as open observation cars — perfect for capturing photographs of the truly exhilarating journey

The Skunk line runs 40 miles from the coast to US Highway 101. Along the way, the tracks cross some 30 bridges and trestles and pass through two deep mountain tunnels. The half-way point of Northspur is popular lunch spot, giving passengers a chance to snack before continuing to Willits or heading back.

You might consider riding one of their special occasion rides such as Father’s Day Brunch, Wine & Redwoods, the great pumpkin express or the Christmas train. These rides are a little more expensive but well worth the extra cost. Make sure to visit their website for more information and group or family packages; they offer valuable discounts. As a side note I was surprised by the quite reasonable wedding packages especially if you are not dead set on a “private” event.

Photo courtesy of Skunk Train (www.skunktrain.com)

A little history (borrowed from the brochure)

Built as a logging railroad, the Skunk line began that year as a logical vehicle for moving massive redwood logs to Mendocino Coast sawmills from the rugged back country. Steam passenger service was started in 1904, extended to the town of Willits in 1911, and discontinued in 1925 when the self-powered, yellow “Skunk” rail cars were inaugurated. The little trains were quickly nicknamed for their original gas engines, which prompted folks to say, “You can smell ‘em before you can see ‘em.”

Since we started this “tradition” my kids will make sure to keep information on “new” train ride information they collect or discover through reading or sharing with friends at school. We keep a long list of “must try” rides.

Looking for a ride in your area? A Google search will definitely pull up a great number of choices. Here a few resources I rely on when planning my trips.