images of railroad near the Russian RiverDuring the early days, the North Pacific Coast R.R. (later the North Western Pacific R.R.) would take you from the ferry building at Sausalito on a four-hour trip through San Geranimo Valley to Point Reyes Station, Valley Ford, Freestone, Occidental, Monte Rio and eventually to Guernewood Park and beyond along the Russian River. 

 

Guernewood Park:

The historical postcard (upper left) depicts one of seven tunnels you would pass through on your journey to Guernewood Park.  This particular passage was between Occidental and Monte Rio above the present-day fish ladder in Dutch Bill Creek. The railbed is still visible and used by local hikers.  The 1912 black and white photo (upper right) shows the tracks coming into Guernewood Park and joining up with Old Monte Rio Road.  The railroad path was converted into Highway 12 in 1936, which is now Highway 116.  

For more info on the Russian River, select a neighborhood below on this website page and explore.  Enjoy!