
Discover the Magic Rolling Through Sacramento’s Backyard
Some adventures begin the moment you board—and some, the moment you pedal.
Just beyond Sacramento’s city streets lies a track where history, community, and imagination roll forward together.
Whether you're sipping wine at sunset, pedaling through farmland, or watching your kids light up on a Christmas train, this isn’t just a ride—it’s a memory in motion.
A Ride Through History
The Sacramento RiverTrain dates back to 1911 as part of the Sacramento Northern Railway. It once carried freight between Woodland and West Sacramento.
Today, it carries something else entirely—joy, connection, and curiosity.
The route was reimagined under Sierra Northern Railway. To bring the experience to life for today’s audiences, they introduced a new brand: River Fox Train.
Important Note: River Fox Train and Sacramento RiverTrain refer to the same operation. Sacramento RiverTrain is the historic route; River Fox is the name used for the themed excursions and guest-facing experiences.
From Shutdown to Railbike Breakthrough
Like many experience-based businesses, the Sacramento RiverTrain came to a full stop during the pandemic.
But in 2022, it returned with a renewed sense of purpose—and a brand-new way to ride.
Enter: railbikes.
These two-seater pedal-powered carts run directly on the train tracks. They offer guests a fresh, quiet, and scenic journey through Yolo County farmland and riverside views.
“It’s quiet, it’s scenic, and people are genuinely surprised by how relaxing it is,” says General Manager Ted Fox.
You can spot herons, goats, wild turkeys, and sunflowers along the route. It’s part adventure, part mindfulness, and completely unforgettable.
Inside the River Fox Experience
What sets River Fox apart is its commitment to storytelling through themed excursions.
Each event is crafted around a mood, a season, or a local flavor.
The Old Vine Express
A curated wine tasting ride featuring local vineyards like Matchbook. Guests enjoy table service, exclusive pours, and seasonal bites in vintage train cars.
Murder Mystery Train
An immersive whodunit with live actors. Guests are encouraged to dress up, follow clues, and solve the mystery while sipping drinks and enjoying the ride.
Magical Christmas Train
A family favorite. Santa visits each car, snowball fights break out, and hot cocoa flows freely. Guests sing, write letters to Santa, and make lasting memories.
River Fox Refresher
A casual cocktail train with beer, wine, and spirits served to the sounds of live or ambient music. Laid-back and social.

River Fox Train isn’t about getting from A to B. It’s about what happens along the way.
Each event is designed to feel personal and emotionally rich.
“We don’t want you to just remember the view,” says one event coordinator. “We want you to remember the feeling.”
You’ll notice:
Exclusive wines you can’t buy in stores
Special themed decor in every car
A mix of seating—from picnic-style to VIP high-top tables
Friendly staff who guide, serve, and entertain
Everything feels intentional, handcrafted, and community-rooted.
Which Ride Is Right for You?
Here’s how to choose the perfect excursion for your vibe:
Wine lover? Choose the Old Vine Express
Romantic date night? Try the Murder Mystery or Tiki Train
Kid-friendly magic? Book the Magical Christmas Train or Pumpkin Patch Express
Outdoor explorers? Railbikes are your thing
Group celebration? Go for the River Fox Refresher
Tips for First-Time Riders
Book early—many events sell out fast
Railbikes require closed-toe shoes and basic mobility
Bring layers in fall and winter—it can get chilly along the river
Don’t forget your phone or camera—sunset photos are incredible
Not all cars are wheelchair accessible—call ahead if needed
What Locals Are Saying
“It felt like we stepped into a Hallmark movie… but it was ours.”
— Magical Christmas Train guest
“Quiet, peaceful, beautiful. We saw a hawk, a goat, and a deer in one ride!”
— Railbike rider
“We’ll be back every year for the wine train. It’s our new tradition.”
— Old Vine Express couple
Final Thoughts: Ride the Rails, Make the Memory
The Sacramento RiverTrain—through its River Fox Train excursions—reminds us that the best adventures don’t always require leaving town.
Whether you’re sipping wine, solving mysteries, or just watching the trees go by, this is your chance to reconnect—with nature, with people, and with the moment.
Book your experience at riverfoxtrain.com
The ride may only last a few hours. But the memory? That goes the distance.
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