West Coast Amtrak Routes

Amtrak’s West Coast routes offer a mix of scenic coastline, forests, mountains and major cities. Regional and long-distance trains make it easy to travel anywhere from San Diego to Vancouver, and several routes continue inland to connect with Chicago and New Orleans. Below, you’ll find a list of all West Coast Amtrak routes with top destinations.

*Long-distance trains

Route	Popular Destinations
Amtrak Cascades	Eugene, Portland, Seattle, Vancouver BC
California Zephyr*	San Francisco (via Emeryville), Sacramento, Reno, Salt Lake City, Denver, Chicago
Capitol Corridor	San Jose, Santa Clara, Oakland, Berkeley, Sacramento
Coast Starlight*	Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Portland, Seattle
Empire Builder*	Portland, Seattle, Whitefish, Glacier National Park, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Milwaukee, Chicago
Gold Runner	Sacramento, Lodi, Oakland, Fresno, Bakersfield
Pacific Surfliner	San Diego, Los Angeles, Burbank, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo
Southwest Chief*	Los Angeles, Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Dodge City, Kansas City, Chicago
Sunset Limited*	Los Angeles, Tucson, Phoenix (via Maricopa), San Antonio, Houston, New Orleans
Texas Eagle*	Los Angeles, Tucson, Phoenix (via Maricopa), San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Little Rock, St. Louis, Chicago

FAQ

What are the main Amtrak routes on the West Coast?

The Coast Starlight, Pacific Surfliner and the Cascades literally travel along the West Coast.

Which West Coast Amtrak route is the most scenic?

The Coast Starlight is the most scenic Amtrak route on the West Coast. It features dramatic Pacific coastline views, the Cascade Range, and long stretches of untouched wilderness.

Do West Coast Amtrak trains have sleeper cars?

Sleeper cars are available on the following routes that stop on the West Coast: Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, California Zephyr, Southwest Chief and Sunset Limited.

Which West Coast Amtrak route is best for families?

The Pacific Surfliner is best for families thanks to frequent departures and easy access to beaches, theme parks and kid-friendly attractions. Top destinations for a family trip include San Diego, Oceanside, Disneyland, Universal Studios, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.

Can I bring luggage on West Coast Amtrak routes?

Yes. Most allow two free carry-on bags and two free checked bags, though checking services vary by station. You can even bring a surfboard on the Pacific Surfliner!

Is Wi-Fi available on West Coast trains?

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the Surfliner, Cascades, Capitol Corridor, and Gold Runner). The long-distance Coast Starlight route does not have Wi-Fi.

Can you combine multiple West Coast routes into one trip?

Absolutely. You can combine the Surfliner, Coast Starlight and the Cascades to travel the entire length of the West Coast from San Diego to Washington State. Popular transfer locations are Los Angeles, Portland and Seattle.