Skunk Train Willits
Ride through majestic redwoods on a historic train, enjoying scenic views and festive fun. A unique Northern California adventure!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive atmosphere, live entertainment
Skunk Train Willits
Best Time
Festive atmosphere, live entertainment
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride through majestic redwoods on a historic train, enjoying scenic views and festive fun. A unique Northern California adventure!
"The singing conductor was absolutely what made the moment a captured memory."
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The Skunk Train is dog-friendly with a VIP add-on for early boarding. :dog:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
The singing conductor adds a special touch, making the ride memorable. Tip them if you enjoy the show! :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Redwood Forest Journey
Noyo River Canyon
Ride through towering ancient redwoods, experiencing the serene beauty of Northern California's iconic forests.
Wolf Tree Turn Route
Willits to Crowley
A scenic 2-hour round trip offering stunning canyon views and a stop in the peaceful woods.
Seasonal Events
Willits Station
Experience magical holiday rides like the Christmas Tree Train or fun trips to the pumpkin patch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Seasons
Embrace the Open-Air Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The Skunk Train is dog-friendly with a VIP add-on for early boarding. :dog:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
The singing conductor adds a special touch, making the ride memorable. Tip them if you enjoy the show! :musical_note:
🎒 Pack Snacks & Drinks
While concessions are available, bringing your own snacks and drinks is allowed and can save money. :snacks:
💺 Seat Options
Seats can turn around to face your companions, perfect for chatting and enjoying the journey together. :seat:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The Skunk Train is dog-friendly with a VIP add-on for early boarding. :dog:
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
The singing conductor adds a special touch, making the ride memorable. Tip them if you enjoy the show! :musical_note:
🎒 Pack Snacks & Drinks
While concessions are available, bringing your own snacks and drinks is allowed and can save money. :snacks:
💺 Seat Options
Seats can turn around to face your companions, perfect for chatting and enjoying the journey together. :seat:
📸 Open-Air Car Views
For the best photos and immersive experience, sit in the open-air car. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Skunk Train for its scenic redwood journeys and engaging onboard entertainment, particularly the singing conductor. Many highlight the dog-friendly policy and the magic of seasonal events like the Christmas Tree Train. While some note that scenery can be less dramatic than anticipated, the overall experience is described as fun, memorable, and a great value, especially with the VIP option.
"We had the best time! It was so cute and fun to go to the pumpkin patch. We have 2 big dogs so we got the VIP experience to board first, which was great even though it wasn’t very crowded. Highly recommend!"
Kelly Fine
"Was a super fun activity. All the staff were very friendly and interactive. The refreshments were tasty. Our dogs couldn’t stay at the motel so we were so thankful it was dog friendly with the add on. Getting vip was worth it too. They gave us an awesome useful cooler backpack!"
Nathan Beddome
"Fun 2 hr train ride through the woods. Started at Willits with a 20 minute or so stop at Crowley for pictures and console games. Nice and fun. Live entertainment on board (singer). Can to to forward open car for better view. Seats turn around if you want to face your company. Narratives along the way. Fun for all. Drinks, booze and popcorn/snacks for sale on train."
Garry McKinney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Skunk Train departs from its Willits station at 299 E Commercial St, Willits, CA 95490. If you're traveling from the Bay Area, you can take a San Joaquins Thruway Bus to get closer to Willits.
Yes, parking is generally available at the Willits station. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times, to secure a spot.
The Skunk Train offers various routes. While some routes go deep into the Noyo River Canyon from Willits, the full Willits to Fort Bragg route may not always be operational. Check their schedule for specific route availability.
Driving is a common way to reach Willits. Alternatively, public transport options like the San Joaquins Thruway Bus can get you to the general vicinity, from where you might need local transport.
Willits offers various hotels and motels for overnight stays. Booking in advance is recommended, especially if you're visiting for a special event.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Skunk Train in Willits can be purchased directly through their official website or at the station. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular seasonal rides.
Ticket prices vary depending on the specific train ride and season. For example, the Christmas Tree Train tickets were around $68. Check the official Skunk Train website for current pricing.
The Skunk Train operates year-round with various routes and schedules. Popular seasonal events have specific dates. Always check the official Skunk Train website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Discounts may be available for groups or during specific promotions. It's best to check the Skunk Train's website or contact them directly for any available discount information.
While same-day tickets might be available, it's strongly advised to book in advance, as popular rides, especially seasonal ones, can sell out quickly. +1
🎫 🚝 Onsite Experience
Expect a scenic journey through redwood forests, often with stops for photos or activities like visiting a pumpkin patch or the Christmas Tree. Many rides feature live entertainment, like a singing conductor. +1
Absolutely! The Skunk Train is a family-friendly attraction. Kids often enjoy the train ride, the scenery, and any special activities like visiting a pumpkin patch or holiday events. +2
Yes, the Skunk Train is dog-friendly! There's a VIP experience add-on that includes early boarding for you and your pet. :dog:
The train offers various seating options, including open-air cars for better views. Seats can also be turned around to face your companions, making it easy to socialize.
Yes, there is a concession stand on board selling snacks, popcorn, and adult beverages like canned mai tais. You are also welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The open-air car offers unobstructed views for fantastic photos of the redwood forest. Stops at scenic points like Crowley also provide great photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is encouraged! Capture the majestic redwoods, the historic train, and the festive atmosphere during seasonal events. +1
Generally, there are no major restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of other passengers and avoid using flash in a way that might disturb them.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is helpful, especially for evening rides or seasonal events. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the vastness of the redwoods.
During events like the Christmas Tree Train, there are unique photo ops, such as the giant Christmas tree itself, which is only accessible by train. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Lovers
🚂 Train Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History
Today, the Skunk Train offers various routes, including the popular Wolf Tree Turn from Willits, which winds through the Noyo River Canyon. This route showcases the grandeur of the old-growth redwoods and the rugged beauty of the landscape. The train's commitment to preserving this heritage makes it a significant cultural and historical experience for visitors.
Seasonal Magic: Beyond the Redwoods
Beyond the winter holidays, the Skunk Train also hosts other themed excursions, such as trips to a pumpkin patch in the fall.
The Willits Experience: More Than Just a Train Ride
Beyond the ride itself, the Skunk Train experience is enhanced by its onboard amenities and entertainment. Many rides feature a singing conductor who provides live music and historical narratives, making the journey engaging and memorable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit