What is a skunk train?

Question

What is a skunk train?

Answer 1

Hmmm. Ok, it is the little train that worked the docks or a lumber yard or mine?

Answer 2

Panda was right on.

The California Western RR (The Skunk Line) runs between Willits and Ft Bragg, California.  Willits is on Hwy 101 and Ft Bragg is on Hwy 1 on the coast, about 150 miles north of San Francisco.

The Skunk name was given to the McKeen motorcar (M-80) which carried passengers and mail between the two towns.   Powered by a gasoline engine and with a pot-bellied stove for heating, it was said that you could 'smell it before you could see it.'

The Cal Western is now owed by the Sierra Railwoad, a shortline which owns a number of small short lines in California, including the Sierra RR in Calif's Gold Country and the Sacramento River Train between Woodland and Sacramento.

Answer 3

The Skunk Train is a scenic train ride through the California Redwoods between Fort Bragg and Willits.  The name "Skunk" Train comes from the fumes exhausted from the gasoline engine mixed with the smoke from the car. It is a very nice day trip with seating in outside cars to take in the views of the gorgeous redwood trees!