A photograph sparked it all – a friend’s snapshot of peculiar-looking bikes gliding along train tracks amidst the stunning Mendocino landscape. These weren’t just any bikes; they were rail bikes, ingeniously designed with four wheels to fit the Skunk Train tracks, offering seating for two to pedal or effortlessly cruise with electric assist. Intrigued by this novel concept and with a trip to Mendocino already on my horizon, I eagerly seized the opportunity to experience these Skunk Train Rail Bikes firsthand. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique adventure.
Essential Details for Your Rail Bike Adventure
Before you embark on your own pedal-powered journey, here are some key details to keep in mind. Originally priced at $79 per bike for two riders during my 2018 visit, the popularity of this experience has adjusted the cost to approximately $250 per bike as of 2020. Tours typically run three times a day, at 10 AM, 12 PM, and 2 PM, but it’s always best to verify the schedule and book your spot in advance via the official Skunk Train website. Remember, information can change, so confirming details before your visit is highly recommended for the most up-to-date experience.
A Glimpse into the Rail Bike Experience
To truly capture the essence of the Skunk Train Rail Bikes, I put together a short video during my ride. It offers a visual taste of what awaits you on this unique Mendocino adventure.
Getting to the Starting Point
Your rail bike journey begins at the historic Skunk Train depot, the same location where the iconic Skunk Train departs. Upon arrival, check in to collect your tickets. From there, you’ll receive a handy map and directions to the designated meeting area for the rail bikes, a mere five-minute drive from the depot. This short drive ensures you begin your bike adventure at the optimal point along the scenic railway.
Embarking on the Rail Bike Tour
We were advised to arrive 45 minutes prior to our tour time. This allowed ample time for check-in and a crucial introduction to the rail bikes. This pre-tour briefing ensures everyone is comfortable and ready to enjoy the ride safely and confidently.
These rail bikes are ingeniously designed with electric assist, offering the best of both worlds. You have the option to pedal for a traditional biking experience, or engage the electric assist which significantly amplifies each pedal stroke, propelling you forward with minimal effort. This feature makes the rail bikes accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of fitness levels.
After a comprehensive overview of the rail bike operation and meeting our guide, Amie, who would lead our group, we paused to allow the Skunk Train to pass. This brief wait was part of the coordinated railway schedule, ensuring a safe and smooth experience for both the train and the rail bikes.
Once cleared, the rail bikes moved swiftly and smoothly along the tracks. The electric assist truly made the journey effortless, allowing us to glide through the landscape with ease. Pedaling became optional, perfect for those wanting a relaxed ride or a gentle workout amidst nature.
Having experienced the Skunk Train ride the previous day, the rail bikes offered a completely different perspective of the same route. The slower pace and open-air nature of the bikes allowed for a deeper immersion into the surroundings, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural beauty of the area.
Approximately 15 minutes into our ride, we entered the enchanting redwood forest. Towering redwoods began to flank the tracks, transforming the experience into something truly magical. The increased shade and the majestic presence of these ancient trees amplified the scenic beauty of the rail bike adventure.
Eventually, we reached the designated turnaround point, marked by the physical end of the usable track. Here, we dismounted to stretch our legs and explore the immediate surroundings before the guides expertly turned each rail bike around, preparing for our return journey.
Our guides played a crucial role in enhancing the experience. They maintained a relaxed pace, encouraging us to savor the moments and fully absorb the scenery. Being on a fixed track removed the need for steering, allowing riders to freely gaze around and connect with the environment, only needing to maintain a safe distance from the bike ahead.
If you’re planning a trip to the Fort Bragg or Mendocino region, the Skunk Train Rail Bikes are an absolute must-do. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed this unique adventure, and I wholeheartedly recommend it. To my knowledge, these are the only rail bikes currently operating in California, making it an exceptionally special experience. If you know of others, please let me know!
