Reality Tour 2: The Skunk Train

This was my favorite historical train of the tour.

The Skunk Train was a short drive from our hotel. After David secured the tickets we had some time in the gift shop. I bought a Redwood burl – from which tiny redwood sprouts are already growing.

The train left Ft. Bragg, our jumping off point. We slid out of town and into an area only accessible via this train. We are talking no boats, no lights, no motor cars territory. Our fantastic on-board conductor/guide/local historian had lived out in this forest and looked every inch of it. Just perfect for a trip into the redwoods.

At the start of the trip the Collette group packed into our own car but almost before we got rolling the passengers were heading for the open cars. We would stay there for most of the trip out. The meandering journey included a running commentary about the trees we were seeing, the rustic cabins, and the old logging camps. It was nice history lesson to go along with some spectacular scenery. I left with a new appreciation for this part of the country.

We learned how fast redwoods turn into giants and how trees are cultivated and used for lumber. We even saw an ancient tree that had been saved by lightening. That’s right – saved. It had a huge crack, making it worthless as lumber. Thus, it had been allowed to survive.

This was a relaxing trip. At the turnaround point (Northspur) we stopped for a picnic lunch among the redwoods.

Many of the passengers (including Chad and I) used this time to explore the forest a little bit and to get up close to these giant trees. Bill, who had been dying to stand inside a redwood (or sequoia) got his chance.

After returning via the same route, we were on the road again. This time it was back to San Francisco.

Check back tomorrow for our Tour Recap video

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posted by John Geysen

Collette Vacations

Tags: Ft. Bragg, Reality Tour 2, Skunk Train, Video

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