Skunk Train Brings Exciting New Experiences To Willits In 2026

Mendocino County’s Skunk Train is set to take its tourism offerings to new heights in 2026 with a major expansion in Willits. The railway is introducing a series of exciting new attractions, which include the Railcoaster, a luxurious Presidential Class experience aboard the Noyo, and an innovative collaboration with Flynn Creek Circus. These new experiences are set to draw even more visitors to inland Mendocino County, creating fresh opportunities for tourism growth.

New Railcoaster Experience: A Rollercoaster Adventure in the Redwoods

One of the most anticipated additions to the Skunk Train lineup is the Railcoaster, launching on May 16, 2026. The Railcoaster offers visitors a unique experience, combining the thrill of a rollercoaster with the serene beauty of Mendocino’s redwood forests. Riders will enjoy a pedal-powered, electric-assist Railbike adventure, gliding through dramatic terrain, including the 1,100-foot Summit Tunnel. The multi-hour journey takes visitors 15 miles into the Noyo River Canyon, showcasing some of the most stunning natural beauty in the region. The Railcoaster operates during spring through fall, providing a new way to explore the area’s iconic landscapes.

Noyo Presidential Class Experience: A Taste of Luxury

In addition to the Railcoaster, Skunk Train is introducing the Noyo, a new Presidential Class experience that will launch in early summer 2026. The Noyo will provide an intimate, luxury rail experience with a mid-century modern design, offering a distinct contrast to the existing Redwood Presidential Class car. Guests aboard the Noyo will enjoy premium service, curated cocktails, and food offerings, making it the perfect setting for travellers looking for a refined and memorable adventure through the redwoods. The Noyo will be available several days per week and for private hire, creating opportunities for special events and celebrations.

Skunk Train x Flynn Creek Circus: A Circus Experience in the Redwoods

The Skunk Train is also introducing a first-ever collaboration with the Flynn Creek Circus from September 11–27, 2026. This unique partnership brings world-class acrobats, aerialists, and circus performers to a hidden site deep in the Noyo River Canyon, only accessible via a ride aboard the Skunk Train. The performances blend physical movement, storytelling, and artistry, set against the backdrop of Mendocino’s towering redwoods. This immersive experience promises to be one of the most memorable events in the region, offering visitors a chance to enjoy a vintage circus atmosphere in a stunning natural setting.

Boosting Tourism in Inland Mendocino County

With these new offerings, the Skunk Train is making Willits the focal point of its 2026 season. The rail operator’s investments in the area are designed to enhance the tourism experience, offering something for all types of visitors. From adrenaline-pumping adventures on the Railcoaster to indulgent moments in the Noyo Presidential Class car, to the magical combination of the Flynn Creek Circus and the redwoods, these new experiences are set to elevate Willits as a prime destination for travelers.

The Skunk Train’s commitment to expanding its offerings is aligned with broader tourism trends in Northern California, where visitors increasingly seek unique, immersive experiences that combine adventure with relaxation. The Willits expansion is expected to draw more visitors to inland Mendocino County, contributing to the local economy and positioning the area as a key player in California’s tourism landscape.

Accessibility and Travel Information

Willits is easily accessible, with drive times of less than 90 minutes from Santa Rosa, two hours from San Francisco, and under three hours from Sacramento. These new Skunk Train experiences, in combination with the region’s existing attractions, are likely to attract both day-trippers and longer-term visitors looking to explore the area’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture.

Overview

As Skunk Train launches its most ambitious expansion to date, the offerings in Willits are sure to captivate tourists looking for an extraordinary adventure. Whether it’s the adrenaline of the Railcoaster, the luxury of the Noyo, or the unique charm of the Flynn Creek Circus, inland Mendocino County is poised to become an even more popular destination for travellers from across the world.

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