Discover Nature at its Finest

Mendocino, California, a hidden gem amongst lush forests and the Pacific Ocean, is located approximately 2 hours north of San Francisco, and is popular amongst visitors and locals alike for its temperate coastal climate, breathtaking views, rich history, natural attractions and is quickly gaining more popularity for its budding wineries and elegant tasting rooms. Mendocino also has a growing artist community, is thriving with creativity, and is also sprinkled with novelty shops, state parks, dozens of attractions and nature preserves. During your stay, be sure to visit the Skunk Train. 

Visit The Historic Skunk Train

Nature is everyone’s friend in Mendocino, California. This gorgeous city is home to towering forests, state parks (with bicycle, horse-riding, and walking trails), miles of remarkable beaches, abalone diving, whale watching, bird-watching, kayaking, rental bikes, world-class wineries and tasting rooms, museums, beautiful architecture and historical buildings. Guests can sample a little of most of these on Mendocino County’s Historic Skunk Train.

Curious passengers have been taking tours on the Historic Skunk Train and the famous Redwood Route for over a century. This tour pit-stops in Fort Bragg and Willits within Mendocino County. A variety of shorter-length tours are available, or guests are welcome to stay along for the entire ride. Explore scenery unavailable from the beaches and the roads on this expansive old-fashioned trail. Enjoy the mountains, forests, wildlife, and natural creeks.  

Depart from Fort Bragg on the Pudding Creek Express for a 1 hour and 7-mile round-trip tour. This tour explores one of the first track routes laid out by California Western Railroad in 1885. Or travel on the Northspur Flyer. Depart from Willits, climb the east side of the Coastal Mountain Range, chug through Summit tunnels and then descend into thick redwood forests to Noyo River Canyon on a 4 hour and 40-mile round-trip tour to Northspur. Once your train reaches its initial destination, guests have an opportunity to disembark the train, soak in the sunshine and insufflate the fresh mountain air. This is another wonderous opportunity to gaze upon wildlife in its natural habitat, bird-watching, or just a relaxing, meditative moment within nature. 
On your return trip, savor gourmet cuisine and treat yourself to a wine tasting available on the Northspur Flyer. 

For tourists interested in a more thrilling and energetic experience, be sure to tour with the Skunk Train Railbikes. Peddle-powered vehicles allow travelers to explore a seven-mile round-trip tour through the Pudding Creek Estuary. Enjoy the tranquility, majestic redwood forests and wildlife firsthand. This excursion is perfect for groups, couples and families alike and is suitable for all skill levels of riders. Take this tour at your own pace. Enjoy the historic Glen at the turnaround point where travelers can dine with a view, or set up their own picnic before voyaging back home. There is fun for everyone at Mendocino County’s Historic Skunk Train. 

Stay at Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites

Pamper yourself. You deserve it. Established in 1878, and nestled in the heart of the downtown village, Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites is a historic Victorian landmark hotel offering full-service luxury for its guests. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Mendocino Highlands, every room is guaranteed to offer a breathtaking view. This extraordinary hotel offers guests unparalleled 24-hour friendly service including, but not limited to: complimentary WiFi, self-parking, newspaper service, concierge service, room service, a business center and meeting rooms, safe deposit boxes, gourmet restaurants with breathtaking ocean and/or garden views, a full-service bar, and in-room massage and spa treatments. Custom party and wedding services are also available. For the lowest rates book direct at: www.mendocinohotel.com.