Group toasting with various glasses of beer.

Press Release

THE RIVER FOX TRAIN’S LEGENDARY BEER TRAIN RETURNS, FEATURING URBAN ROOTS BREWING COMPANY

March 11, 2026

West Sacramento, CA (March 11, 2026) – A fan-favorite experience is making its way back to the rails. The River Fox Train has announced the return of its legendary Beer Train. The experience returns March 21, bringing together craft brews, live music, and scenic countryside views for a lively two-hour excursion through the Yolo County countryside.

Once known as one of the railroad’s most beloved themed experiences, the Beer Train earned a reputation for pairing local craft beer with the relaxed rhythm of the rails. Now, the experience returns with a fresh lineup of seasonal departures and a featured brewery partner, Urban Roots Brewing Company, one of Sacramento’s most celebrated craft breweries.

Guests will enjoy a curated selection of Urban Roots beers while traveling aboard vintage railcars through the open farmland and peaceful landscapes of the region. A live band will provide the soundtrack for the journey, creating an upbeat atmosphere as the train rolls through the countryside.

“The Beer Train has always been a special part of the River Fox story,” said Alicia Carpenter, River Fox Train Assistant General Manager. “Bringing it back allows us to reconnect with longtime fans while introducing a new generation of guests to the experience. Featuring Urban Roots this season lets us showcase one of the region’s standout breweries while creating something that feels both nostalgic and new.”

“Sacramento has such a vibrant craft beer community, and we love opportunities that connect our beer with memorable experiences,” said Peter Hoey, Co-Founder & Founding Brewmaster of Urban Roots Brewing Company. “The Beer Train is a fun and unexpected way for people to enjoy great beer, live music, and beautiful scenery all at once. We are thrilled to be partnering with the River Fox Train for this season’s rides.”

In addition to the featured beer pours, guests will be able to purchase snacks, small bites, additional beverages, and non-alcoholic options onboard. The two-hour experience encourages guests to relax, socialize, and enjoy the music as the scenery unfolds outside their window.

The 2026 Beer Train series will feature four seasonal departures throughout the year, each offering a unique atmosphere that reflects the flavors and spirit of the season:

  • Spring Beer Train – March 21
  • End of Spring Beer Train – April 12
  • Summer Beer Train – August 8
  • Fall Beer Train – October 10

With limited seating available on each departure, the return of the Beer Train is expected to draw both longtime fans eager to relive the experience and newcomers looking for a unique way to enjoy Northern California’s craft beer culture.

To purchase tickets, visit www.riverfoxtrain.com/experiences/beer-train/. Advance reservations are recommended.

For more information about the River Fox Train and its unforgettable rail adventures, visit www.riverfoxtrain.com or call (800) 866-1690.

River Fox Train Built in 1911 by the Northern Electric Company, the River Fox Train’s 10-mile track originally transported passengers in the Sacramento area. Electric passenger travel ended in 1941, but the line remained active with diesel freight, creating a link between the fertile farmlands of the Sacramento Valley and the rest of California. In 2003, Sierra Railroad merged with the Yolo Shortline, continuing freight and reviving passenger trains under the name of Sacramento River Train. Today, the line is known as the River Fox Train, a sister of the world-famous Skunk Train built in 1885. From events like Railbike rides, relaxing afternoon tea and wine trains, and interactive Murder Mystery dinners to festive holiday-themed outings, passengers can enjoy a variety of experiences while reveling in nostalgic railroad charm.

Images available upon request.

Media Contacts: Kimberly Preciado, Mendocino Railway [email protected]