Ride through the mighty redwoods on Skunk Train’s new rail bikes

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and step back in time through ancient redwoods on the historic Skunk train and rail bikes.

(Courtesy of Skunk Train)

Since 1885, the Skunk Train has entertained and inspired passengers along the famous Redwood Route, and the sights today are virtually unchanged from those of over a century ago. Redwoods along the tracks tower overhead as you cross trestle bridges, along winding tributaries and deep into primeval canyons. These trees can reach heights of over 350 feet and can live for up to 2,000 years. Many of the original groves were left untouched when the line was built and today offer incredible opportunities to view these silent giants.

The unique Rail Bike Experience is a new addition to the Skunk Train line with custom-built two-person power-assisted rail bikes that take you leisurely along the tracks to see another side of the Redwood Road. Railbikes on Pudding Creek is a seven-mile round-trip experience, pedaling along historic tracks. Bathed in dappled sunshine and a light breeze, you’ll experience a newfound freedom on the rails like nowhere else.

Without the need to steer, you are free, able to look around at the wonders of this untouched expanse of the natural world, spotting blue herons, osprey, the occasional basking turtle, perhaps a playful river otter, a deer munching on the foliage and, during peak berry season, maybe even a bear. The new Railbikes on the Noyo excursion will take you 25 miles off the beaten path along the meandering Noyo River and through the heart of ancient redwood groves on a section of track now reserved exclusively for our railbikes.

Trains depart regularly from Fort Bragg on the beautiful Mendocino Coast and from Willits in the hilly Inner Corridor, both just a few scenic hours north of San Francisco. Railbikes depart from Fort Bragg.

// For reservations and information, visit skunktrain.com.

(Courtesy of Skunk Train)