Essential information
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? Read our FAQ below.
skunk train faqs
skunk railbike faqs
Why is it called the Skunk Train?
The nickname “Skunk Train” dates back to 1925 when motorcars or railbuses were introduced. These single-unit, self-propelled motorcars used gasoline engines and potbellied stoves for heating, which created a strong, pungent odor. Locals described the smell as akin to skunks, noting, “You could smell them before you could see them!” The railroad’s official name is California Western Railroad.
How old is the Skunk Train?
The Skunk Train has been delighting passengers since 1885. Rest assured, our engines are thoroughly inspected and maintained to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
How safe is the Skunk Train?
The Skunk Train has nothing without safety and it’s our top priority in everything we do. In addition to our staff conducting regular inspections, as a Class III common carrier we’re also inspected by the Federal Railroad Administration, Transportation Security Administration, and the California Public Utilities Commission.
A general safety briefing is provided to all passengers.
Do I need a reservation for the Skunk Train?
While reservations are highly encouraged for the Skunk Train, they are not mandatory. We recommend booking in advance to secure your spot. Please note that some experiences sell out and may not be available for walk-in purchases.
The Skunk Train offers locals discounts for Mendocino, Humboldt, and Lake County residents. Simply enter your zip code during checkout, present a valid ID at check-in, and adventure on!
Does the Skunk Train accept credit cards?
Yes, the Skunk Train accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Only cash tips to staff are permitted.
Does the Skunk Train accept cash?
No, the Skunk Train is cashless in terms of transactions. Cash tips to staff are acceptable.
Are Skunk Train tickets refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable. You may call to reschedule or receive a voucher for your reservation 72 hours prior to your event date.
Does the Skunk Train offer Afterpay to book my Railbike or train adventure?
Yes, the Skunk Train now offers Afterpay! Simply select Afterpay at checkout, get your tickets instantly, and enjoy the flexibility to pay over time.
Do Skunk Train departures run on time?
Yes! Please arrive 30 minutes before your departure to be seated prior to departure. We strive to adhere to our schedule as closely as possible. If you miss your train, we will issue a gift certificate for a future ride or book you on the next available departure. Please review our refund policy for more details.
Is there onsite parking at the Skunk Train?
Yes, there is free ample parking for the Skunk Train available at both depots.
We do not accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents. We recommend keeping valuables out of sight or with you during your visit.
Are there restrooms onboard the Skunk Train?
Yes, there are multiple restrooms onboard the Skunk Train. For your convenience, we suggest using the facilities at the station before departure to minimize movement while the train is in motion.
Restrooms will also be available at Crowley and Glen Blair Junction during your rest stop.
Are pets allowed on the Skunk Train?
Dogs are welcome on select Skunk Train rides. Please bring essentials like food, water, dishes, and a leash. A fee applies for dogs, and reservations are highly recommended.
Is the Skunk Train handicap accessible?
The Skunk Train provides ramps for boarding and disembarking. Passengers may need to transfer from a wheelchair to a coach seat. Our conductor will assist with boarding, seating, and wheelchair storage during your trip.
These are important dimensions you should review before arriving to the Skunk Train:
– Ramp Width: 28.25″
– Train Entry Way: 29.5″
– Skunk Train Wheelchair Width: 14.5″
Can we bring food on the Skunk Train?
Yes, you can bring food on your Skunk Train adventure, but we also have an array of snacks available for purchase on the train like our buttery popcorn! On Friday and Saturday’s we serve hot food at Glen Blair Junction and Bar. The Railbikes on the Noyo and Railcoaster rides come with a picnic lunch.
There will be a break for you to enjoy a snack among the redwoods. Outside alcohol is not permitted on the Skunk Train.
Can we bring alcohol on the Skunk Train?
Outside alcohol is not permitted on the Skunk Train. We offer a range of canned cocktails, wines, and local beers including our exclusive Skunk Beer from Anderson Valley Brewing Company.
A full bar is available at Glen Blair Junction on certain days and times of the year via the Glen Blair Bar trip.
What should I wear for the Skunk Train ride?
On the Skunk Train, wear comfortable, casual, and layered clothing to stay warm, especially during cooler months. Please note if riding in the Open-Air Observation Car, sometimes dust and soot can filter down from the engines.
This soot can possibly stain fine fabrics.
Can I rent the Skunk Train for a private event?
Yes, you can reserve a Skunk Train car for private events or buy out the whole train! For more information on bookings and requirements, please visit our group reservations page.
Are Skunk Train coaches Climate-Controlled?
The Skunk Train’s Noyo Presidential Class car in Willits has climate control.
How long is the Skunk Train ride?
The length of your Skunk Train ride depends on the ride you have purchased.
Trains
• Pudding Creek Express, Redwood Presidential Class – 1.5 Hours
• Wolf Tree Turn, Noyo Presidential Class – 2 hours
• Days of Steam – 1.75 Hours
• Highball Express – 3 hours
• Mr. Skunk and the Giant Christmas Tree, Pumpkin Express, Easter Express – 2 hours
• Glen Blair Bar – Up to 4 Hours with trains returning hourly.
Can I get to the Skunk Train depot by Public Transportation?
Our Skunk Train Willits Depot is a new stop on the Amtrak Gold Runner connecting bus service.
The line runs from Martinez > Vallejo > Discovery Kingdom > Napa > Petaluma > Rohnert Park > Santa Rosa > Healdsburg > Cloverdale > Ukiah > Willits > Laytonville > Leggett > Garberville > Fortuna > Eureka > Arcata > Humboldt; this is Route 7 on Amtrak’s Thruway bus route and connects to Amtrak’s rail service daily at the Martinez Amtrak station.
Visit Amtrak.com/gold-runner-train for more information.
When will Tunnel #1 in Fort Bragg reopen for the Skunk Train?
The Skunk Train tunnel has been out of service since its last collapse in 2015. Good news! We are currently gaining the necessary funds to rebuild and reopen the structure. This project will connect the Fort Bragg and Willits Depots, allowing for another way to experience the majestic forest along our track.
Please note that we do not currently have a schedule for when the tunnel will be finished or ready for operation. We will update our website when more information is provided!
What is the HPF?
Our Historic Preservation Fund allows us to continue the work of preserving this treasured piece of living history. Follow our “Behind the Skunk” Facebook page to see how we are restoring our nation’s rail heritage!
Is there an age requirement to ride the Skunk Train Railbike?
The minimum age requirement for riding the Skunk Train Railbikes is three years old – no lap seating allowed. All children under the age of three must be in a front-facing carrier or use their car seat. Single riders must be at least 16 years old to operate the motor-assisted vehicle.
How many Skunk Train Railbikes do I need for two people?
One Skunk Train Railbike accommodates two people. If you accidentally booked two bikes for two people, please contact us via phone or email to correct your reservation.
Where should I check in for the Skunk Train Railbikes?
Check in for your Pudding Creek and Moonlight Skunk Train Railbike rides at the Fort Bragg Depot, located at 100 West Laurel Street, Fort Bragg, California 95437.
Check in for your Noyo Skunk Train Railbike ride at the Sherwood House, located at 30401 Sherwood Rd, Fort Bragg, California 95437.
The Railcoaster will depart this May from our Willits Depot, located at 299 East Commercial Street Willits, California 95490.
The person who made the reservation must present valid photo identification to collect your boarding passes. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. Late arrivals may be accommodated on a different time or day if availability permits.
How long is the Skunk Train Railbike experience?
The length of your Skunk Train Railbike adventure varies depending on the adventure you have chosen:
Railbikes
• Noyo Railbikes – 25 miles, approximately 5 hours
• Pudding Creek Railbikes – 7 miles, 2 hours
• Moonlight Railbikes to Glen Blair Bar – 7 miles, 4 hours
• Railcoaster – 15 miles, 4 Hours
How long will I pedal during the Skunk Train Railbike ride?
Each Skunk Train Railbike is equipped with an easy to use electric-assist motor that you can use as needed. Instructions on operating the motor and other features will be provided before your ride.
However, if you want to pedal the Skunk Train Railbike, you can expect to do so for about 25-30 minutes in each direction during the Pudding Creek and Moonlight Railbike ride, or for about 5 hours during your Noyo and Railcoaster Railbike rides.
Does the Skunk Train offer Afterpay to book my Railbike adventure?
Yes, the Skunk Train now offers Afterpay! Simply select Afterpay at checkout, get your tickets instantly, and enjoy the flexibility to pay over time.
Are all Skunk Train Railbikes motor-powered?
Each Skunk Train Railbike is equipped with an easy to use electric-assist motor. Instructions on operating the motor and other features will be provided before your adventure.
Are helmets mandatory for the Skunk Train Railbike ride? Will they be provided?
Yes, helmets are mandatory for your Skunk Train Railbike ride. Sanitized helmets are provided for your ride, but you may bring your own bicycle helmet, provided it has a chin strap.
Do you offer parking at the Skunk Train Depot?
Yes, there is free ample parking for the Skunk Train available at both depots.
We do not accept responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents. We recommend keeping valuables out of sight or with you during your visit.
When should I fill out my Skunk Train Railbike waiver?
While completing Skunk Train Railbike waivers online speeds up the check-in process, you can fill them out at the depot if needed.
Please forward the waiver link to other members of your party if signing it online.
Can pets ride the Skunk Train Railbikes?
Yes, dog trailers are available for purchase on select Skunk Train Railbike trips, accommodating dogs up to 150 pounds. Dog accommodations include a complimentary dog bandana and treat. Availability is limited.
What if it rains during my Skunk Train Railbike adventure?
We invite you to unleash your inner child and splash in a puddle or two because our Skunk Train Railbikes run rain or shine! If the storm is severe, we will cancel the run for safety reasons and issue you a refund.
Are Skunk Train Railbike tickets refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable. You may call to reschedule or receive a voucher for your reservation 72 hours prior to your event date.
What should I wear for the Skunk Train Railbike ride?
Wear comfortable, layered clothing and close-toed shoes for your Skunk Train Railbike ride to adjust to changing temperatures. Layers can be added or removed as needed.
Can I bring food and drink on my Skunk Train Railbike ride?
Yes, you can bring food and drink on your Skunk Train Railbike adventure. There will be a break on all Railbike adventures for you to enjoy a snack at our picnic tables among the redwoods.
Picnic lunches are available for purchase. Some of our Railbike trips even come with a lunch included!
Each Railbike has a basket for your belongings. Outside alcohol is not permitted on the Skunk Train Railbikes.
Can I bring a drone to the Skunk Train?
Drones are not allowed at the Skunk Train.