If you click on the links in this post, we may earn money from the companies mentioned in this post, at no extra cost to you. You can read the full disclaimer here.
The Skunk Train has a delightful history in California. In fact, it’s been running through the redwoods of California since 1885. And now you can feel like you’ve traveled back in time by taking a ride on the Skunk Train!
Now I say Skunk Train, but the railroad’s historic name is California Western Railroad. The nickname “Skunk” actually refers to a time in 1925 when motorcars (or railbuses or railcrusers) were invented. They had gasoline-powered engines & a pot-bellied stove that burned cruse oil so that the passengers would stay warm. The combination of these created a terrible smell, so people living along the lines said the motorcars were like skunks. Thus the nickname of the Skunk Train!
But gross nickname aside, it’s actually a really beautiful ride with amazing views. You get to ride through redwood groves and otherwordly tunnels. You’ll drive over scenic trestle bridges and into the heart of the Noyo River Canyon.
There are multiple different experiences you get to choose from, but today I want to focus on the Pudding Creek Express. This is a one and a half hour, seven mile round trip along the gorgeous Pudding Creek Estuary. The Pudding Creek Estuary is home to blue herons, egrets, ospreys, and more, so you’ll get to see amazing wildlife. You’ll ride through ancient redwoods and to Glen Blair Junction.
The Pudding Creek Express departs from their Fort Bragg depot. It makes for a wonderful morning or afternoon excursion.
Promo Code
Looking to save money on the Skunk Train? Want a promo code to give you a discounted price? Well, I can get you something even better! Purchase your ticket here and you can get an automatic discount. No promo code or coupon code is needed!
The following tickets are on sale:
Standard Admission: Pudding Creek Express
- 1.5-hour, 7-mile round trip through coastal redwoods
- Includes general admission and onboard narration
- 45-minute stop at Glen Blair Junction
- Note: Food, drinks, and premium seating not included
- Price:
$54.95| Sale Price: $49.95 | You Save: $5.00
VIP Admission: Pudding Creek Express + Lunch
- All Standard Admission benefits plus VIP upgrade
- Includes complimentary lunch at The Glen
- Advanced boarding and priority concessions
- Free commemorative gift included
- Note: Alcoholic drinks sold separately
- Price:
$89.95| Sale Price: $84.95 | You Save: $5.00
Presidential Redwood Car (Lounge): Pudding Creek Express
- Luxury lounge seating with panoramic views in a crowd-free setting
- Includes priority boarding and first-class service
- 2 cocktails and a photo with the iconic drumhead included
- Ages 21+ only | No dogs allowed
Save this to Pinterest!




