Disclosure: We were invited to experience the Magical Christmas Train, in exchange for my time and efforts in attending and reporting my opinion within this blog. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.

We are so excited to experience the West Sacramento River Fox Magical Christmas Train later this month, we have never been. Tickets are already selling out, so if you want to experience the Magical Christmas trains, book your reservations TODAY! Below is some info on three different Christmas Train experiences from three locations West Sacramento, Fort Bragg, and Willits, California. We will be sure to share our experience later this month, be sure to follow us on Instagram and TikTok, that is where you will catch a peek inside the Magical Christmas Train first. 

Revelers seeking a little holiday magic will feel like they’ve stepped into a Christmas storybook thanks to three-holiday trains within an easy drive of the Bay Area and greater Sacramento regions. Delightful rail adventures departing Willits, West Sacramento and Fort Bragg begin in late November and run through the month of December.

All of the classic enchantments will be in place— choose from experiences that include Santa’s workshop, hot chocolate and treats, glistening decorations, melodic carols, games, elves and even Santa himself. But it’s the awe-inspiring setting of Northern California’s flora and fauna that makes the experiences truly unforgettable.

 

These distinctive Christmas-themed outings are presented by Sierra Railroad, which operates the iconic Skunk Train in Willits and Fort Bragg, and the River Fox train in Sacramento. Booking early is important as passenger seats tend to sell out.

 

Willits – family-friendly – November 26 through December 31

Passengers are invited to sport a cozy sweater or holiday pajamas as they board the train for the Mr. Skunk and the Giant Christmas Tree adventure at the historic depot in Willits. The 16-mile roundtrip rail journey into the redwood forest is brimming with cheer as guests enjoy reindeer games, Christmas carols and seasonal treats (including adult beverages for mom and dad). The destination is Santa Mr. Skunk’s Wonderful Workshop, which consists of a giant redwood tree bedecked in Christmas splendor. On return to the Willits train depot, guests are invited to climb aboard a historic ‘Skunk’ motorcar for a special photo opportunity with Mr. Skunk himself.

The Willits Mr. Skunk and the Giant Christmas Tree train runs from November 26 through December 31. Trips average a duration of two hours. Tickets are $59.95; and other prices apply for dogs and VIP passes. Trains leave from downtown Willits located just off Highway 101. For tickets, visit skunktrain.com or call (707) 964-6371 for more information.

West Sacramento – family-friendly – November 26 through December 23

All aboard the River Fox Magical Christmas Train in West Sacramento for an outing that will usher friends and families into the spirit of the season. This is a chance to journey with Santa and his elves through the countryside of Yolo County with views of ivy-covered woodlands, colorful orchards and the glistening Sacramento River. During this hourlong, 10-mile round trip, guests enjoy hot chocolate, holiday cookies, a story time and even adult beverages for parents. Festive photo opportunities are also a joyful part of the day. It’s an easy location to reach, just west of Sacramento International Airport off Interstate 5. The River Fox Magical Christmas Train runs November 26 through December 23 and tickets are $55 for adults, $45 for children ages 2 through 12, and $10 for ages two and younger. Book early, some train times are already sold out.

For Adults and Small Groups – November 25 through December 16

The River Fox is also launching the new Holiday Spirit Express, an hour-and-a-half train experience that is ideal for individuals and groups aged 18 and older. Departing on Fridays at 7 p.m. (November 25 through December 16), this train includes outdoor and indoor seating. Immersive entertainment will light up the night via the train’s merry band of elves; a strolling musician; a visit from Santa; charcuterie appetizers; and dessert. Two beverage tokens (alcohol or non-alcohol) are included with train ticket. Alcohol and snacks may be purchased aboard the train as well. First Class tickets include all of the amenities and reserved seating for $149 per passenger. Happy Hour Class tickets are $99 with a la carte amenities, and seating is first come, with limited indoor seating.

For tickets, visit riverfoxtrain.com/experiences/holiday-spirit-express or call (800) 866-1690.

 

Fort Bragg -- family-friendly – November 26 through December 31

Departing from the Fort Bragg depot and decorated with festive seasonal flair, the Skunk Train’s Pudding Creek Express traces the first tracks laid down by the California Western Railroad. Passengers enjoy a scenic seven-mile round trip along the beautiful Pudding Creek Estuary, which is home to blue herons, ospreys, egrets, and more. This one-hour and 15-minute journey stops at the Glen Blair Junction where guests may stretch their legs amid the ancient redwoods. Railbikes are another popular option for further exploration at a more leisurely pace. For tickets and information, visit skunktrain.com or call (707) 964-6371.


Located in the redwood forests of Northern California’s Mendocino County, the California Western Railroad / Skunk Train is a heritage railroad that has been operating both freight and passenger service since 1885. Initially used to move redwood logs to the Mendocino Coast sawmills from the rugged back country, the Skunk Train has become a beloved institution touted as one of the “10 Best Rail Tours in the Country” (USA Today), and a “Top 10 Family Activity in California” (National Geographic Traveler). The Skunk Train journey covers 40 miles of scenic delights; 30 bridges; and an 840-foot tunnel. The railroad has retained all of its original charm – minus the pungent smell that the engines used to emit, when people would say, you could “smell the Skunk before you could see it.” Operating year-round, the Skunk Train is a multi-generational experience, and riders can even bring along the family dog. For tickets and more information, visit SkunkTrain.com or call (707) 964-6371.


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 our Railbike rides; relaxing beer and wine trains; and holiday-themed outings, passengers can enjoy activities while reveling in nostalgic railroad charm. Visit RiverFoxTrain.com (800) 866-1690.