Built in 1885, the Fort Bragg Railroad played a significant role in expanding timber operations within Mendocino County. So, to preserve this historic railroad, Mendocino Railway, operating as Skunk Train, has transformed unused train tracks into exciting tour routes. Among its popular experiences is a journey into the heart of the county’s ancient redwoods on a two-person electric rail bike.
Offering visitors an entirely new way of exploring California, the guided tour takes about two hours. The excursion starts at the depot in downtown Fort Bragg. From there, visitors will travel along the Pudding Creek Estuary and pass through Mendocino County’s majestic redwood forest.
Skunk Train is offering visitors a new way of exploring California’s famous redwood forest
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Afterward, they’ll disembark at Glen Blair Junction for a 50-minute stopover. The junction features picnic tables where guests can enjoy their packed lunches or snacks. In addition, there’s also a redwood loop trail that guests can further explore on foot. According to “Chief Skunk” Robert Jason Pinoli, redwoods thrive naturally only in a small part of the world. From Big Sur to the California-Oregon border, that is.
“These trees are hundreds of feet tall and are each a unique monument to the very forest they make up. The tracks of the Skunk Train date back to 1885 and trains have been running over them continuously for 135 years.”
Instead of traversing the historic Fort Bragg Railroad by train, guests can pedal a two-person electric railbike to enjoy the scenic view better
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Electric-powered and virtually silent, each of the custom-built bikes comfortably seats two passengers and requires no steering. So, you and your companion can pedal at your own pace as you revel in the beauty of the surrounding scenery. According to the website, common sightings include a deer, a river otter, a turtle, blue herons as well as ospreys. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a bear during peak berry season.
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You can experience this trip by purchasing a Rail bike Explorer Package for $250, inclusive of an 8% Historic Preservation Assessment. In addition to the fare for two riders, the package also includes a certified guide and use of the Glen Blair Junction amenities.
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Single riders, who are at least 18 years of age, are also welcome. However, do note that Skunk Train does not offer discounts to single riders.
People online are loving the idea of exploring the forest in an innovative way
Feel free to visit Skunk Train’s website to learn more about their experiences, including seasonal-themed train rides.
Source: Skunk Train Website | Facebook | Instagram