from www.skunktrain.com Skunk Steam Engine Celebration Willits, CA. – The Skunk Train is hosting a special six-day steam engine event September 22-27, 2006. While riding a steam engine trip aboard the Skunk Train is considered one of the ten best train excursions in North America, the Skunk Steam Celebration is unique for its route, schedule, guest speakers, amenities and the addition of a second steam locomotive. The Skunk Engine #45 normally operates out of the Fort Bragg Station on the western end of the Skunk’s 40-mile railroad. The Skunk #45 is a Mikado-type 2-8-2 super-heated Baldwin steam engine. During the event, the #45 will relocate over the coastal mountain range to the Willits Station for the first time in years. The #45 will be joined by a second steam engine provided by Roots of Motive Power for unique “double-header” steam trips. A third diesel locomotive will be added for dynamic braking. At several scenic locations the passengers will be allowed to de-board the train for photo opportunities or “photo run-bys”. These photo run-bys are noteworthy since one of the charms of the Skunk is that its route is accessible only by train and guests are rarely allowed to de-board to take photos of the train in motion. The resulting photos should be rare. The following is a brief overview of the six-day event. Friday (September 22): This is a one way trip pulled by the Skunk #45 from Fort Bragg - Willits. Bus transportation back to Fort Bragg is included in the price. This is one of only two trips that cover the entire 40-mile line. Saturday – Tuesday (September 23-26): This double-headed steam engine departs from Willits for a 6-7 hour roundtrip. Each day has a unique itinerary, meal and amenities. Wednesday (September 27): This is a one way trip pulled by the Skunk #45 from Willits back to Fort Bragg. A barbeque lunch will be served at Northspur. Bus transportation back to Willits is included in the price. This is second of only two trips that cover the entire 40-mile line. Trips will take 6-7 hours and every trip will have a different set of photo run-by locations. Guests will be entertained on board by musicians and guest speakers. A special lunch is included with every trip. Commemorative memorabilia will be presented to every guest. Each day will have a unique schedule and amenities. The cost is $195 per trip, or $75 for children ages 3-12. Group rates for 20 or more are available. Train and hotel packages are available, as well as multiple-day discounts. For a detailed event flier, please call 866-45-SKUNK (457-5865) The reservation office is open seven days a week until 8pm.
I used to ride the skunk behind #45 many, many times growing up in CA. What a great steam locomotive, and what a really great ride through beautiful Northern California. I would highly recommend this ride to anyone that thinks they may want to take it. You will remember it forever.
That would be great to see and ride!!!!!!! Last time I was there the Skunk was not running but the trip was well worth it behind the California Western #65 and listening to the Greg Schindel {Train Singer} along the way. :shade: :shade: :shade: :shade:
Wah! A diseasel? Boo! "Roots of Motive Power?" Is there a web site, or? For some reason, right now, they don't sound familiar. Boxcab E50
