To celebrate the 8th annual California Clean Air Day on Wednesday, Oct. 1, Metrolink will provide free rides systemwide, encouraging Southern Californians to choose greener transportation options that reduce their carbon footprint. By leaving cars at home and opting to take public transit instead, riders can help cut harmful emissions and improve the region’s air quality.

This observance marks the third and final Metrolink free-ride day of 2025, giving residents across the agency’s six-county service network the chance to explore and enjoy the convenience of travel on public transportation at no cost. Most recently, Metrolink welcomed more than 34,000 riders after waiving fares for Earth Day in April. No ticket is required – passengers can simply board any Metrolink or Arrow train and ride for free all day.

“California Clean Air Day is a reminder that small, everyday choices, such as taking the train instead of driving, can have a big impact on our environment,” Metrolink Board Chair Doug Chaffee said. “We’re proud to welcome riders aboard for free on this day of action, and equally proud of the progress we are making toward a zero-emissions future. Together, these steps bring us closer to a healthier, more sustainable Southern California.”

Beyond Clean Air Day, Metrolink continues to be an industry leader in sustainability. Earlier this month, the agency introduced North America’s first hydrogen-and-battery powered passenger train, the Zero-Emission Multiple Unit (ZEMU), now serving riders on the Arrow service between San Bernardino and Redlands. This milestone builds on Metrolink’s record of environmental leadership, which includes operating an EPA-compliant fleet of 40 Tier 4 locomotives and setting the standard as the first passenger railroad in the United States to power its full fleet with fossil fuel-free renewable fuel, reducing emissions up to 67%.

Metrolink is joined by several local transit agencies also offering free rides on Oct. 1, including LA Metro bus and rail lines, Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) buses, Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) buses, Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) buses, and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority commuter services such as Omnitrans, Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA), Mountain Transit, Basin Transit and Needles Area Transit.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner trains are not participating in California Clean Air Day, and codeshare trains will require valid fare to board.

For more information on Metrolink’s sustainability efforts and how you can take advantage of free rides on California Clean Air Day, visit metrolinktrains.com/clean-air-day.