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Ride the Skunk Train from Willits to Wolf Tree Turn in Mendocino, California

On this scenic 2-hour round trip you’ll ride from the Willits valley floor up to the highest point on the rail line, passing through the dramatic Tunnel #2 before descending into the redwood-thick Noyo River Canyon-an ecological wonderland and prime spot to discover the mighty giants that made Mendocino County famous; the train pauses briefly at Crowley so you can step off and take in the splendor of the iconic Wolf Tree, named for the large growth that dominates one side and outcompetes surrounding vegetation, and the whole journey to Crowley is made aboard one of our historic Diesel-Electric engines, giving you an immersive Mendocino County sightseeing experience perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone booking memorable activities through Varoom.

About this activity in Mendocino

Cancellation policy
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Highlights

  • Two-hour round-trip scenic rail journey from the Willits valley floor up to the highest point on the route through Mendocino’s redwood country.
  • Pass through historic Tunnel #2 and descend into the lush Noyo River Canyon - a prime spot to see towering coastal redwoods and local ecology.
  • Brief stop at Crowley lets you step off the train to admire the iconic Wolf Tree and take photos of one of the line’s oldest trees.
  • Ride aboard a restored diesel-electric locomotive for an authentic heritage railroad experience along this memorable Mendocino County route.

Important Information

  • Total duration is approximately 2 hours; plan for time to board, disembark briefly at Crowley, and return to the valley floor.
  • You’ll be traveling on active heritage rail equipment; listen for crew announcements and follow instructions during the Crowley stop if you wish to step off.
  • Bring a camera and layered clothing - the canyon can be cooler and shaded under the redwood canopy compared with the valley.
  • Tickets include a historic preservation assessment; check your booking for departure time and platform details before arrival.

Meeting Point

Meet at the Willits depot on the valley floor - arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled departure. Refer to your ticket for the exact platform location and any last-minute updates.

Includes

  • No additional inclusions are offered with your booking in Mendocino, California - what you see listed is what’s included.
  • Plan accordingly for any extras you may want while visiting the area, as no further inclusions apply.

Excludes

  • There are no other exclusions beyond what’s stated for this experience.
  • All tickets include an 8% historic preservation assessment, applied to your purchase for activities in the region.

Other

  • Wheelchair accessible - the venue in the area is accessible for guests using mobility devices.
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, making this option family-friendly for exploring the destination.
  • Service animals are allowed, so you can bring required support animals when visiting.
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels - this experience accommodates a wide range of abilities while you enjoy the locale.

Customer Reviews

9/10
Based on 10 Reviews
renodogmom
• Oct 21, 2025 05:27:43 PM
Summary: We all had a great time on the Skunk Train Pumpkin Express and so did the dogs. We got the VIP package - lunch was great! Would definitely do another Skunk Train ride again.
angc438
• Oct 21, 2025 04:51:19 PM
Summary: The drive into the woods is always pleasant. The kids loved it. I wish we were able to enjoy more time at the pumpkin patch which was only 25 mins. Prices for children are a bit high, it’s the same as a paying adult which is already on the pricey side
Thom M
• Sep 8, 2025 02:36:51 PM
Summary: We loved every single thing about this experience! Malaki the singing conductor made this excursion simply wonderful. He is so good at what he does! I highly recommend this experience. BRAVO!

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Know more about Mendocino

On this 2-hour round trip you’ll travel from the Willits valley floor up to the highest point on the rail line, pass through Tunnel #2, and descend into the redwood-thick Noyo River Canyon. The route highlights old-growth redwoods, dramatic canyon views, and a brief stop at Crowley where you can step off to enjoy one of the most iconic trees along the route.
The train stops briefly at Crowley so you can disembark and take in the splendor of the Wolf Tree and surrounding scenery. This short stop lets you enjoy close-up views and photos of one of the oldest and most iconic trees along the route.
Yes. The trip is family-friendly-infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller-and the service accommodates passengers with mobility needs, making the redwood sightseeing accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Yes. The descent into the Noyo River Canyon takes you into a redwood-thick ecological wonderland that offers excellent opportunities to discover the mighty redwood giants that made Mendocino famous.
You’ll make the trip to Crowley aboard one of the historic Diesel-Electric engines, providing an authentic rail experience as you travel through the Willits valley and into the canyon.
Absolutely. The route through Tunnel #2 and into the Noyo River Canyon offers spectacular photo opportunities and wildlife and nature observation in a redwood-rich environment, especially during the stop at Crowley where you can step off the train for better views.