Just outside of Sacramento, you’ll find a uniquely scenic and relaxing train ride through rich farm country and a sprawling wildlife refuge. Operating over a 1911 electric interurban route, the Sacramento River Fox Train rolls between the cities of West Sacramento and Woodland, traveling along the banks of its namesake river and through the Yolo Wildlife Area, which is home to nearly 200 species of birds.
Choices
The Sacramento River Fox Train operates dinner, brunch, and lunch trains year-round, mostly on weekends. Passengers can board in either Woodland or West Sacramento for a leisurely 28-mile round trip that lasts up to 3 hours. The recently remodeled train is powered by GP7 No. 136, sporting new blue and gold colors, and includes vintage coaches, diners, and open-air cars. Special events include train robberies, wine and beer trains, zombie trains, murder mystery excursions, and sunset dinner trains.
When to go
Trains run year-round and are climate-controlled. Those who enjoy riding open-air cars might prefer to visit during spring or fall, instead of the sweltering summer months. Seasonal trips include pumpkin trains, Valentine specials, a New Year’s Eve express, and a popular Christmas train that runs from late November through December.
Good to know
The route is rich with history, originally built by the Woodland & Sacramento Railroad and operated by the Northern Electric Railway. Later owners included the Sacramento Northern, Western Pacific, Union Pacific, and Yolo Shortline.
Worth doing
Woodland features a charming historic downtown, surrounded by museums and wineries. Sacramento, only 15 minutes away, is home to the state capital, the California State Railroad Museum, and many other historic attractions.
Don’t miss
Look for the 8,000-foot Fremont Bridge over the Sacramento River, which the railroad claims is the longest wooden trestle in the western United States.
Getting there
From San Francisco, take I-80 East to West Sacramento and continue on I-80 to Reno (right lanes). Go 2 miles north and exit at Reed Avenue. Drive east and turn left on North Harbor Boulevard. The station is almost underneath the I-80 overpass.
Location: 18095 County Road 117, West Sacramento, CA
Phone: 800-866-1690
Website: riverfoxtrain.com
E-mail: Form on website
