I love exploring local rail history and finding relics of the past that are still standing like the Northwestern Pacific Depot in Mill Valley.

The depot was constructed in 1929 in a mission revival-style. It replaced a previous depot that also served as the terminal for the railroad in Mill Valley. The first train arrived here in 1890. It was also the terminal for the Mt. Tamalpais & Muir Woods Scenic Railway, also known as The Crookedest Railroad in the World because of its 281 curves.

From the depot the three car train would be pushed up the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais. At the summit, after enjoying some of the best views in the Bay Area, passengers would then board a gravity car for the downhill journey back to Mill Valley.

A replica of a gravity car is on display in the plaza in front of the depot. The depot is now a coffee shop and bookstore.