Discovering the Skunk Train: A Timeless Adventure from Willits, California

The Skunk Train's story begins in 1885, when it was established as the Fort Bragg Railroad primarily to haul massive redwood logs from the forests to mills on the coast.  What started as a logging lifeline soon evolved into a passenger service, with the full 40-mile route connecting Fort Bragg to Willits completed in 1911. 

The "Skunk" nickname originated in 1925 with the introduction of self-propelled motorcars, or railbuses, powered by gasoline engines and heated oil stoves.  Their distinctive odor led locals to quip that "you could smell them before you could see them," much like a skunk. 

At the heart of the Willits experience is the depot itself, built in 1916 in a charming Tyrolean Alps-style using premium clear redwood lumber.  Today Willits is also marked by the striking Willits Arch, originally from Reno, Nevada, which was donated in 1995 and rebranded with local slogans:  "Gateway to the Redwoods" and "Heart of Mendocino County." 

Departing from Willits Depot, the flagship excursion is the Wolf Tree Turn, a scenic ride that showcases the rugged beauty of the Mendocino Redwoods.  You'll climb a steep 3.5% grade to the Summit at 1,750 feet-the highest point on the line-before descending through Tunnel #2 and stopping at Crowley, enjoy picnic areas, hiking trails, and in fall, a pumpkin patch where you can pick your own gourd amid treats and drinks on board. 

Fascinating Facts and Hidden Gems

The Crookedest Railroad:  With 381 curves over 40 miles and the longest straight section under a mile, the Skunk Train is dubbed the "crookest railroad in the west" and possibly the world.  One section winds 8.5 miles to cover just 1.5 miles!

The Wolf Tree:  A highlight is this ancient redwood, scarred by lightening strikes, which has led to unusual branch growth unlike its neighbors.

Skunk Cabbage and a Tennis Court? Look for pungent skunk cabbage plants in the west redwood understory, thriving in this temperate rainforest with up to 70 inches of annual rain.  At Crowley, hear stories of the quirky Frenchman who built a tennis court with imported clay in the logging camp.

Come stay with us - we offer Skunk Train Packages!