“One of the  
most spectacular  
North American  
train trips.”  
New York Times

Operating in Mendocino County since 1885, The Skunk Train has earned acclaim for its scenic route through the redwood forest. Yesterday, Kathy and I enjoyed a ride on the Wolf Tree Turn, a breathtaking two-hour journey departing Willits and traveling over the highest point of the rail line and down into the picturesque Noyo River Canyon. 

The experience began at the train depot in Willits. The old-style train chugged through town, across Main Street, then up into the hills to the west. One of the conductors used the exceptionally-effective sound system to provide information about various points along the way, and to share the interesting history of the rail line.

One of the other conductors was a gifted guitarist and singer. He meandered through the train cars serenading passengers with a variety of mostly train-themed songs.

Near the town of Crowley, the train made a 30-minute stop for lunch at a remote picnic area where the famous Wolf Tree is located. The tree gets its name from its sprawling branches and a distinctive overgrowth off one side. We had pre-ordered our lunches and picked them up prior to boarding. The sandwiches and drinks were packed in thermal lunch bags to keep them cold. We enjoyed our meal sitting at a shaded picnic table under a large tree.

Kathy and I enjoyed meeting some of the other passengers on the train. It’s amazing how a shared experience like riding the Skunk Train can provide a tangible sense of connection among strangers. Two of the couples we met happened to be from Austin, Texas, though they were not traveling together. We had a delightful conversation about the differences between living in California and the Lone Star State. 

Overall, the experience was well worth the cost. More than likely, however, I consider it a one-time adventure for us. Though we enjoyed it immensely, and would highly recommend it to friends, it’s unlikely that we will ride the Skunk Train again. 

I must say that I question the validity of the New York Times quote above. Was it a spectacular train trip? I would say yes, it was. Is it one of the most spectacular in North America? Given the many other opportunities to travel by train in the United States and Canada, I sincerely doubt it. If I ever take an extended journey by train, I want it to be on the “Journey Through the Clouds” trip on the Rocky Mountaineer. Until that time, if it ever happens, I’ll stick with taking CalTrain from Santa Clara to San Francisco. I wouldn’t describe that particular route as scenic, but when travelers arrive on CalTrain in The City by the Bay, they experience one of the most beautiful cities in North America.