Calling all railway enthusiasts! Many visitors come to Fort Bragg to take advantage of the scenic and fun Skunk Train, but there’s a lesser-known attraction right next door that’s also worth checking out. This large-scale model railway is far from the typical model train you probably grew up playing with. Instead, visitors can enjoy an impressive display that celebrates Northern California’s rich railway heritage. Check it out the next time you’re in the area!
See Northern California's logging and railway history brought to life with a walk around this large-scale model railroad in Fort Bragg. Located in the same spot as the Skunk Train, this impressive display is worth seeing firsthand.
One thing's certain, this is far from your typical model train set! Created and maintained by the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad & Historical Society, the entire display boasts 1,300-feet of track, which is equivalent to six miles of "real" railways.
The history of logging along the Mendocino Coast goes all the way back to 1850 and it lasted for nearly a century. During this time period, countless towns, logging camping, mills, and railroads were built around this giant industry. Although many of those structures and camps have since disappeared, their impact definitely hasn't been forgotten.
The Model Railroad & Historical Society is definitely a bit of a quirky stop, but it knows how to make an impression. The layout of this one-of-a-kind model is set sometime between 1925 and 1940 and is meant to represent a logging railroad that might have existed somewhere along the Mendocino Coast.
The model boasts several scenes that truly bring the history of the Redwood Coast to life. Structures and equipment used in these scenes are accurate to the time period. They really do resemble tiny logging operations!
The historical society set to work on the model railroad in 2011, so what you see is nearly a decade of hard work. It's simply a must-see if you're in the area. You'll find the building right behind the Skunk Train Depot. Admission is free with a Skunk Train ticket, or $5 for adults and $3 for children without a train ticket.
This large-scale model railway is definitely one of the most unique destinations in Fort Bragg, so stop on by and see this impressive model with your own eyes. You can visit the Mendocino Coast Model Railroad & Historical Society website for more information, including the history behind the model.
