Skunk Train Recognized by USA Today ’10BEST’ Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Scenic Train Rides in the United States

The Skunk Train 2009 [Photo from Drew Jacksich from San Jose, CA, The Republic of California, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons]

Mendocino Railway’s Skunk Train has officially been named one of the 10 Best Scenic Train Rides in the country by the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, earning recognition among some of the most iconic and scenic rail journeys in the United States.

USA Today highlighted the Skunk Train’s incredible redwood scenery, its adventurous Railbike excursions, and its one-of-a-kind Glen Blair Bar experience—a secret bar in the redwoods only accessible by the Skunk Train. The recognition follows weeks of public voting by USA Today readers and adds to a growing list of national accolades for the Skunk Train. Recently, The New York Times included the Skunk Train on an exclusive list of “6 Spectacular Train Trips in North America.”

“To be ranked among the best scenic train rides in America is an absolute honor, especially when it reflects what we’ve worked so hard to create: experiences that connect people with the beauty, history, and adventure of the California redwoods,” said David Morrissey, Chief Marketing Officer of Mendocino Railway.

“Across our Fort Bragg and Willits operations, we welcome guests from around the world to experience these magical landscapes that have been at the heart of our railroad since 1885. Being recognized by travelers from across the country reinforces just how special the Skunk Train is in the railroading world—and just how unique Mendocino County is as a travel destination. Thank you to the USA Today readers and voters, our guests, and our community for recognizing and supporting the Skunk Train,” said Morrissey.

The Skunk Train continues to grow and remains an important driver of Mendocino County tourism. In 2025, nearly 104,000 guests enjoyed Skunk Train experiences out of Fort Bragg and Willits. Every year, the Skunk Train introduces new ways for visitors to experience the redwoods while preserving the history of its railroad. In 2026, the Skunk Train launched a 15-mile electric-assisted railbike adventure, called Railcoaster, offering guests a thrilling adventure through the redwoods and into the wilderness. In September, the Skunk Train will host two weeks of performances by Flynn Creek Circus at a former redwood logging camp, only accessible by rail.

Mendocino Railway extends its gratitude to everyone who voted, visited, and continues to support the Skunk Train. As the railroad approaches another busy summer season, guests can experience the nationally recognized adventure for themselves aboard one of the many train rides, Railbike excursions, and special events operating throughout the year.

For tickets and information, visit www.skunktrain.com

California Western Railroad / Skunk Train is a Class III common carrier public utility railroad located in the redwood forests of Northern California’s Mendocino County. This heritage freight railroad has been operating since 1885—initially moving redwood logs from the rugged backcountry to Mendocino Coast sawmills and later transporting finished lumber out to the national railroad network. After adding passenger service, the railroad became affectionately known as the “Skunk Train” in 1925 and has been a beloved heritage railroad experience for generations of visitors since. Freight, passenger, and excursion trains operate year-round. For tickets and more information, visit www.skunktrain.com or call (707) 964-6371.