NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mendocino Railway
07/10/2025
ALL ABOARD THE LEGEND: THE SKUNK TRAIN’S HISTORIC CHIGGEN STEAM ENGINE RETURNS FOR AN EXTENDED SUMMER RUN
Fort Bragg, CA — (July 10, 2025) — This summer, something extraordinary returns to the redwoods. For a limited time, steam will once again rise above the towering trees as the legendary Chiggen steam engine thunders back to life on California’s world-famous Redwood Route. And this year, it’s staying longer than in years past.
From June 28 through September 7, on select weekends only, the Skunk Train invites adventurers, history lovers, and families alike to experience Days of Steam, an immersive journey powered by a living piece of locomotive history.
Built in 1909 and lovingly restored, the Chiggen isn’t just a steam engine—it’s a time machine. With fewer and fewer operational steam locomotives left in the world, this rare opportunity offers a nostalgic escape into a bygone era when iron horses ruled the rails and steam whistles once filled the redwoods with sound.
Departing from the historic Fort Bragg depot, passengers will ride in authentic early 20th-century railcars, including an open-air car, on a 7-mile round trip along the stunning Pudding Creek Estuary, with views of osprey nests, blue herons, and majestic redwood groves. The hour-and-fifteen-minute journey includes a stop at the scenic Glen Blair Junction, where guests can enjoy a walk in the woods or a drink with a game of Corn-hole.
Space is limited, and the experience only runs on select weekends from late June through early September, making this the most extended Chiggen season to date, but still a fleeting summer window.
Tickets and full schedule available now at Days of Steam. Don’t miss your chance to step back in time, because they don’t make them like this anymore.
California Western Railroad / Skunk Train located in the redwood forests of Northern California’s Mendocino County, is a heritage railroad that has been operating both freight and passenger service since 1885. Initially used to move redwood logs to the Mendocino Coast sawmills from the rugged back country, the Skunk Train has become a beloved institution touted as one of the “10 Best Rail Tours in the Country” (USA Today), and a “Top 10 Family Activity in California” (National Geographic Traveler). The Skunk Train journey covers 40 miles of scenic delights and 30 bridges, all while retaining its original charm—minus the historic pungent aroma that once preceded its arrival. Operating year-round, this multi-generational experience welcomes passengers to bring along their families and even their dog, ensuring a memorable and inclusive adventure.
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Images available upon request.
Media Contact:
Kimberly Preciado
Mendocino Railway
kpreciado@sierrarailroad.com Days-of-Steam-Press-Release
