train travel california

A Complete Guide to Train Travel in California

The romance and convenience of train travel is something that countries throughout Europe and Asia have embraced with open arms. Trains are easy to navigate, budget-friendly, space-saving, and are oftentimes safer than driving. Plus, it sure beats having to keep your eyes on the road while venturing up the beautiful California coast.

Perhaps the best part? Trains are much better for the environment than flying or driving. Amtrak trains, for example, are 47 percent more energy efficient than traveling by car and 36 percent more efficient than domestic air travel. Trains can move a larger number of people at once than cars can, which means they produce less CO2, lower pollution levels, and healthier air quality. Win, win, win.

So, what are you waiting for? TripSavvy rounded up some of the best train routes in California to supplement your staycation, road trip, or domestic travel plans.

Coast Starlight

Amtrak’s Coast Starlight train is considered by many to be one of the most scenic train tours on the west coast, passing through spectacular cities like San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Portland. Passengers have the opportunity to pass by each climate that California is famous for, from snowy Mount Shasta to the coast of the Pacific Ocean and everything in between. If you choose to travel the Coast Starlight, you’ll get to enjoy an onboard theater and arcade room to help pass the time (or if you need a break from the scenic views) and sleeper car passengers even have access to local wine and cheese tastings in the Parlour Car. It’s about as California as it gets.

The route takes passengers on a journey from Los Angeles to Seattle, stopping in Sacramento and Portland along the way. The whole trip takes about 35 hours start to finish and the train departs daily, with different accommodations to fit different travel styles and budgets. Choose from Roomettes with two seats that fold up into bunk-style cots at night and a private restroom with shower; a Bedroom with twice the space; an even bigger Bedroom Suite; and a Family Bedroom with room for two adults and two children. Private rooms get priority boarding, a dedicated Sleeping Car attendant, access to the train lounge, and complimentary meals included. For guests traveling with a disability, the train has several Accessible Bedrooms located on the entry level with space for a wheelchair and two adults.

Coach passengers will still enjoy roomy, comfortable seats with much more legroom than a plane or car, and Business Class guests receive an onboard credit for food or drinks and a fully refundable ticket.

Pacific Surfliner

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner serves stations on the southern side of the state. The route hugs the coast the whole way, stopping in 27 stations along 351 miles throughout San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obisbo counties. Once the train reaches the far north, passengers can go even further using the supplementary thruway bus systems.

Unlike the Starlight, the Pacific Surfliner doesn’t include any sleeper trains, making it more of a day trip type of train. Passengers still get comfy reclining seats with power outlets, free Wi-Fi, restrooms, bike and luggage racks, and massive windows to enjoy the views of the sea as it whips by. There’s also an onboard cafe with fresh food, snacks, and drinks.

Coach tickets are unreserved, so you can ride any Pacific Surfliner train from the origin station to the destination station listed on the ticket, making it a bit more flexible should travelers miss a train or if travel plans change. Business Class tickets offer guaranteed seating and a few other perks like more legroom and complimentary snacks, but advance reservations are required.

Amtrak San Joaquins

With 135 destinations to choose from, 365 miles of track, 18 stations, and over a million riders every year, the Amtrak San Joaquins offers a connection to the Central Valley and popular spots like Yosemite National Park. There are seven daily round trips featured on this train, five between the cities of Oakland and Bakersfield, and two between Sacramento and Bakersfield. The extensive Thruway Bus network can even take passengers as far as Las Vegas or Napa, and the train connects directly to BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) at the Richmond Station.

Some of the more scenic highlights of this route include the section between Stockton and Oakland with views of the Delta and the Bay, between Lodi and Sacramento through vineyards, and between Merced and Fresno with views of the sierras and Central California farmland.

There is free Wi-Fi available onboard as well as a cafe car for food and drink purchases. Keep in mind that this route has a lot of stops, and can get pretty crowded. Also, Amtrak San Joaquins doesn’t offer a Business Class ticket selection, so reserving seats isn’t possible.

Caltrain is a Northern California commuter rail line that services the San Francisco Peninsula and Santa Clara Valley. Because it is a commuter train and pretty casual, it is much cheaper than Amtrak, and will take you further than the BART and MUNI public transportation networks that mostly cater to the Bay Area regionally. It runs from the ballpark in San Francisco south through San Jose, Silicon Valley, and ends in Gilroy. It serves dozens of stations, but unfortunately doesn’t connect riders to the heart of San Francisco (you’ll need more local public transportation for that).

Similar to Caltrain, Metrolink offers services on a smaller scale, covering the Southern California regions connecting Los Angeles, Ventura County, Antelope Valley, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Metrolink has a $10 Weekend Day Pass that is good for unlimited system wide travel either Saturday or Sunday (perfect for that Disneyland vacation) and a five day flex pass that gives riders 10 percent off. The company recently installed brand new ticket machines located at each station, but tickets can also be purchased through a mobile app.

Seats for both Caltrain and Metrolink commuter trains aren’t assigned, and are much smaller than the long-distance train, similar to city-wide public transportation or subways.

Napa Valley Wine Train

If the thought of traveling by train didn’t give you enough of a European feel, try throwing in the Mediterranean-esque views of the Napa Valley along with it. The Napa Valley Wine Train has been a must-do staple of Napa tourism for years thanks to its gourmet cuisine and world-class wine. The train cars are made up of restored vintage Pullman cars from the early 20th century and the decor is an homage to the glory days of luxury train travel with all its mahogany paneling, brass accents, etched glass partitions, and intimate seating.

The Wine Train isn’t so much about the destination as it is about the journey, since the track is a fairly short 36-mile loop starting and ending in the small town of St. Helena. Tour options range from 2-3 hour journeys complete with a four-course meal to full or half-day trips that last for 3 to 6 hours and include wine tastings at some of Napa Valley’s most famous wineries. You’re paying for the ride, but also for the food or wine along with it, so save this train ride for a special occasion.

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California Passenger Rail

We Can Take You There

Let’s Get Connected!

Our network of three train services work together and help you travel to more than 100 amazing destinations throughout California. Learn more:

Capitol Corridor Amtrak San Joaquins Pacific Surfliner

Experience Everything California Has To Offer. All Aboard.

From the soaring Sierras, to urban nightlife and exciting sports events, to coastal vistas, travel by rail is safe, efficient and stress-free. Select a train service to learn more.

Capitol Corridor

Capitol Corridor connects the vibrant urban centers of Northern California – from Sacramento to Silicon Valley.

The Amtrak San Joaquins

The Amtrak San Joaquins provides essential service between the Central Valley, Bay Area, Sacramento, and beyond.

The Pacific Surfliner

The Pacific Surfliner serves coastal counties including San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.

California Everyday Discounts

Reduced fares for seniors, veterans, students, and other special discounts help make travel affordable and easy. Learn more about our promotions and deals:

Convenient Connections To Even More Exciting Destinations. Go Further.

Amtrak San Joaquins Fresno county is the heart of California, home to a diverse community, and once you’re here, it’s easy to see why. From thrilling outdoor adventures to the heartland of farm-to-fork dining.

capitol corridor & amtrak san joaquins America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital features new restaurants, plentiful farmers markets, home-grown breweries, colorful street murals, Gold Rush-era family attractions, or a sunset walk along the river.

San Luis Obispo

pacific surfliner & capitol corridor Spend time in nature hiking or biking, visit local landmarks like Bubblegum Alley, or browse boutique shops in downtown—San Luis Obispo has something for everyone.

amtrak san joaquins With iconic waterfalls, giant sequoias and awe-inspiring cliffs, Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the country.

San Francisco

capitol corridor & amtrak san joaquins Awe at San Francisco’s most famous landmarks such as, The Golden Gate Bridge, The Palace of Fine Arts, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, hop on a cable car, and enjoy the endless food options.

capitol corridor Lake Tahoe offers a wide variety of pretty epic vacation experiences year round, including skiing and winter sports in colder months and boating and beach activities in summer.

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11 Scenic Train Rides In California That Are RIDICULOUSLY Beautiful

California has some of the most beautiful scenery in the entire country.

And one of the best ways to enjoy that scenery is aboard a train!

Luckily, California has many different scenic train rides to choose from.

The only problem?

It’s hard to know which is best!

That’s why, in this guide, we’ve done all the hard work for you and come up with the ultimate list of the best train rides in California.

Some take you through towering redwood forests and others go deep into the mountains.

There’s a ton of variety but the one thing they ALL share in common is the beautiful views!

Let’s get started…

1. Pacific Surfliner

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The Pacific Surfliner train ride is a beautiful 351-mile journey that takes you from San Luis Obispo in central California to San Diego in the south. 

Along the way, you’ll get to see stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, especially between Los Angeles and San Diego, where the train runs right along the SoCal coastline. 

It’s truly breathtaking!

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The route also passes through other major cities like Santa Barbara where you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of its famous pier and beaches. 

The Pacific Surfliner is actually one of Amtrak’s busiest routes in the entire United States! This really shows how much people love this scenic trip. 

If you ride the entire length, it takes roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes.

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Whilst aboard the train, you’ll witness California’s diverse landscapes from the Mediterranean-style scenery of Santa Barbara to the sandy beaches in the south.

It’s also really easy to sit back and relax as this train is known for its comfortable seats and large windows.

At certain times of the year, you might even be able spot migrating whales in the ocean from your seat!

2. Coast Starlight

The Coast Starlight train stretches from Seattle, Washington, all the way down to Los Angeles, California. The entire route takes 35 hours.

While it travels through several states, its path through California is arguably the most scenic as it offers incredible views of the Pacific coast, especially near Santa Barbara. 

This train takes riders through the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, down through the scenic valleys of California and along the beautiful coastline. It’s mesmerizing.

You’ll even pass through the dramatic snow-capped mountains of the Cascade Range.

The Coast Starlight is particularly known for its observation cars which have large windows that are perfect for taking in the stunning landscapes. 

A highlight of the trip is witnessing the towering Mount Shasta along the way. This 4,321m volcano is truly a sight to behold.

The train also passes by the San Francisco Bay Area and offers views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from a distance. 

You’ll also travel through the famous wine country of California which provides a glimpse of the vineyard-filled landscapes. 

The Coast Starlight isn’t just about the views though, it also has a rich and interesting history.

This train has actually served as a vital link between the north and south of the West Coast since 1971. 

Onboard, you’ll find multiple options for private rooms if you plan on staying overnight and dining. 

3. Santa Cruz Beach Train

The Santa Cruz Beach Train is a fun and unique train ride that takes passengers from the historic Roaring Camp in Felton, all the way to the sunny Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

It takes approximately 1 hour each way.

This special train journey takes you through the towering redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains which offers a shaded escape before reaching the sunny coastline. 

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Along the way, the train even crosses several old wooden bridges and trestles that were originally built in 1909! This really makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

The train chugs along the same routes that were once used to transport lumber out of the mountains over a hundred years ago. It’s pretty historic!

In fact, the Santa Cruz Beach Train actually operates on one of the oldest and most historic rail lines in the whole of California. It originally opened back in 1875.

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You’ll also get the chance to catch glimpses of wildlife and native plants as you make your way through the forest. 

Once the train descends from the mountains, it arrives at the vibrant Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk which is famous for its amusement park that sits right on the beach. 

You can choose from open-air or enclosed passenger cars, depending on the season.

Please note that this train is seasonal and does stop running at certain times of year. Check the current schedule here .

4. Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is a unique experience that takes you on a journey through the beautiful Napa Valley in California which is famous for its wine production. 

This train ride starts in the historic town of Napa and travels north to St. Helena, winding through the heart of the wine country. It’s a 36-mile round trip.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of vineyards stretching out on both sides with the rolling hills of Napa Valley in the background. 

The train itself is a collection of vintage rail cars that have been restored to their early 20th-century elegance. It makes you feel like you’re traveling back in time. 

A fun fact about the Napa Valley Wine Train is that it runs on tracks that were originally built in the 1860s to bring guests to the hot springs of Calistoga. 

While on board, you can even enjoy gourmet meals that are prepared in the train’s own kitchen. The dishes are designed to complement the local wines. 

Speaking of wine, the train also offers tastings of some of the world’s best wines. They’re all sourced directly from the Napa Valley vineyards you pass by!

The journey not only showcases the scenic beauty of the region but also aims to educate passengers about the history of winemaking in Napa Valley. 

You’ll learn so many things you didn’t know before!

For those interested in more than just the ride, there are stops along the way where passengers can disembark for winery tours and tastings. 

5. Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

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The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is a historic steam train that takes passengers on a scenic journey through the Sierra National Forest.

It’s located just 10 minutes from the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. 

This exciting ride starts and ends at the historic Sugar Pine Railroad station and lasts around an hour. You’ll be able to learn about the area’s rich logging history.

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As the train chugs along the tracks, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of towering pine trees and rugged mountain landscapes. It’s one of the most scenic train rides in California.

One of the coolest things about this train is that it runs on a narrow gauge railway which was commonly used for logging trains in the early 1900s. 

Along the way, the knowledgeable guides will share tons of fun facts and stories about the loggers who worked in these mountains and the history of the railroad itself. 

It’s all super interesting stuff!

The journey takes you past sites where giant logs were once hauled down the mountain, giving you a glimpse into the past. 

Plus, the steam engines that pull the train are historic themselves. Some date back over a century and have been lovingly restored. 

For something even more unique, the railroad also offers moonlight rides that include a campfire and storytelling under the stars. They also have a gold panning activity!

Please note that this train is seasonal and only runs from April through to November. Check the current schedule here .

6. Skunk Train

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The Skunk Train is a famous train ride in California that takes passengers through the heart of the redwood forests. 

The train offers several different routes but most begin at either Fort Bragg, on the Mendocino coast, or Willits. Most rides last between 1 and 2 hours.

This train got its unique name from the original gas-powered motorcars it used which actually smelled like skunks! 

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As the train moves along the tracks, you’ll be surrounded by ancient redwoods. These are actually some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. 

The journey also takes you across wooden trestle bridges and through tunnels carved out of the mountain. It offers a glimpse into the impressive engineering feats of the early 1900s. 

Along the way, the conductors will share stories and fun facts about the train’s history and the surrounding forest. 

One interesting point is that the railroad was originally built for logging and played a crucial role in the development of the area. It actually began running back in 1885!

Now, the Skunk Train offers a variety of experiences including railbike rides where guests can actually pedal along the tracks on specially designed bikes. 

7. River Fox Train

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The River Fox Train is an exciting adventure on rails that takes place in the heart of California, near Sacramento. 

This train journey starts and ends in West Sacramento, taking passengers along the scenic Sacramento River. The entire length is around 10-miles.

As it travels, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful views of the river, lush farmland and the rolling countryside. It’s truly stunning.

The train ride offers a variety of themed journeys. Choose from murder mystery, beer and wine-tasting rides, and more.

For kids and families, there are special events like the Great Train Robbery and the Magical Christmas Train which bring stories to life with interactive entertainment. 

The train operates on tracks that have been a part of California’s railroad history for over a century.

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Along the way, you might even catch glimpses of local wildlife, like birds and deer. Keep your eyes peeled!

The River Fox Train also passes through several historic areas which give a peek into the past of the region’s towns and industries. 

8. California Zephyr

The California Zephyr is an amazing train ride that takes passengers on a journey across the United States.

It runs all the way from Chicago to Emeryville in California, which is located just outside of San Francisco. 

If you rode the entire length, it would take approximately 51 hours (one-way) so you’ll definitely want to set aside a couple of days for this epic train ride!

During its journey through California, the train offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains which are especially breathtaking. 

You’ll also be able to watch as the landscape changes from the high desert plains in Nevada to the lush, green slopes of the Sierra Nevadas. 

One of the highlights of the trip is crossing the Donner Pass which is famous for its history and spectacular scenery as well as crossing through the heart of the Rockies.

The train also travels through tunnels and over bridges which gives you a close-up look at the rugged terrain and natural beauty of the area. 

The California Zephyr is known for its comfortable observation cars which have large windows that are perfect for sightseeing. 

There are also private rooms available if you’ll be staying overnight.

You’ll also be able to learn about the history of the railroad and the regions you pass through, thanks to informative talks by the train staff. 

This train route is one of the most scenic in North America and offers views that can’t be seen from the highway. It’s bucket-list worthy, that’s for sure!

The journey through California ends in Emeryville but travelers can easily reach San Francisco and other Bay Area cities by bus or ferry.

9. Redwood Forest Steam Train

The Redwood Forest Steam Train is a magical journey that takes you through the towering redwood forests of California. 

This adventure starts and ends at the Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton, near the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It lasts approximately 75 minutes.

As the steam train chugs along, you’ll be surrounded by ancient redwoods which are some of the tallest trees in the world. 

The journey feels like stepping back in time, as the train is powered by a real steam engine, just like the ones used over a hundred years ago. 

In fact, their oldest steam engine dates back to 1890!

Along the way, the train conductor shares tons of fun facts and stories about the forest and the history of the railroad. 

This train ride is not just about the trees though, it also offers breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the chance to see local wildlife. 

The track winds through the forest, over trestle bridges and through a tunnel carved out of the mountain. It even takes you up to the summit of Bear Mountain!

The Roaring Camp Railroads were originally built to transport lumber out of the mountains.

Today, the train ride is a way for people to learn about and appreciate the beauty of the redwood forest. 

10. Niles Canyon Railway

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The Niles Canyon Railway is a special train ride that takes you on a trip through the beautiful Niles Canyon in California. 

This journey starts and ends in Sunol. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes round trip.

As the train moves along the track, you’ll get to see the stunning scenery of the canyon including its green hills and the flowing Alameda Creek. 

This area is not just pretty, it’s also full of history!

The railway follows a part of the original Transcontinental Railroad which was actually the first rail line that connected the east coast to the west coast of the United States. 

During the ride, you’ll get to learn about the history of the railway and the region through stories told by the train’s crew. 

The train itself is made up of historic cars and locomotives that have been carefully restored to their former glory. They’re a sight to behold.

Riding the Niles Canyon Railway gives you a sense of what travel was like in the past. 

In addition to regular rides, the railway also offers special themed trips throughout the year.

11. Amtrak Capitol Corridor

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The Amtrak Capitol Corridor is a popular 168-mile train ride that connects Northern California cities from San Jose to Auburn. 

This train journey starts in the busy tech hub of San Jose and ends in the historic city of Auburn, traveling through beautiful landscapes and important cities along the way. 

The Capitol Corridor passes through the state’s capital, Sacramento, where you’ll get the chance to learn about California’s rich history. 

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The route also offers views of the San Francisco Bay Area. You’ll be treated to glimpses of the water and cityscapes. 

The Capitol Corridor is not just used for long trips, it’s actually also used by daily commuters going to work or school. 

Along the way, you’ll get to see the rolling hills of Northern California and the lush farmland of the Central Valley. 

The Capitol Corridor does make stops in key cities, including Oakland and Berkeley, so feel free to hop off whenever you like to enjoy some attractions and activities. 

This train service is a great way for travelers to explore multiple cities without the stress of driving!

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Train Travel

Another fun way to explore California is to travel by train. It is a great way to enjoy the scenery instead of focusing on the road ahead. Amtrak’s legendary Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner trains follow ultra-scenic routes up and down the coast. The Capitol Corridor provides an easy east-west route across Northern California, while the San Joaquin line slices through the broad and sunny Central Valley with connections to Yosemite National Park and other destinations. Along the way, there are options to link to Amtrak Thruway buses, which serve more than 90 destinations statewide. (Plus, you can disembark and hire a car at major stops for additional exploring.) Depending on the route, you may be able to book a space in a special sleeping carriage, with access to an exclusive dining car.

Local & Scenic Railways

Though Amtrak is the largest train service in the state, it is not the only one. In Northern California, Caltrain has regular service between San Francisco and San Jose. In Southern California, Metrolink offers service on seven regional lines that connect L.A., Ventura County, Antelope Valley, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Trains dedicated to certain themes and in specific locales, such as the Napa Valley Wine Train, also provide a unique way to see some of California’s première destinations.

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Train Travel: Seeing Southern California on the Pacific Surfliner

Get a unique view of California by traveling down the coast on Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner and explore the towns along the way.

December 18, 2022

As you sit back in a train and watch the multitudinous landscapes pass by while enjoying the company of great friends, it’s difficult not to be swept away. There is something nostalgic about train rides that evokes a sense of simpler times. As you cruise along the Southern California coastline aboard the Pacific Surfliner , it becomes clear that the experience has more to do with the journey than the destination. 

While a trip to San Diego may take longer by train, the ability to skip L.A. traffic, avoid long airport security lines, or let go of the focus that long road trips require is well worth the additional time. Listening to the rhythmic sounds of the train chugging along redefines relaxation in a way that must be experienced to be believed; it could very well be the white noise you need from the fast-paced reality we all claim as our own.

Everything You Need To Know About The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner departs from San Luis Obispo and passes through Santa Barbara , Glendale , and Los Angeles before arriving at its final destination, San Diego . If you’re taking a direct train from San Luis Obispo to San Diego it will take between nine and ten hours to make it to your final destination . Depending on what time you plan on arriving in America's Finest City, you have a few options to choose from as the Pacific Surfliner schedule is pretty flexible. The earliest train moves from SLO at 3:45 a.m. and arrives in San Diego at 1:35 p.m., while the last one leaves at 3:40 p.m. and arrives at 1:35 a.m. So crack open that book you have been wanting to get to for months, pick up your phone only to capture the moments, and get to know old friends (or yourself) a little better while aboard the train.

When it comes to prices, Pacific Surfliner tickets taking you from SLO all the way to San Diego cost between $61 and $76. Prices vary, of course, depending on where you get on the train and where you get off. With so many stations, though, getting on and off the train in any city you desire is easy to do. After all, spending some time in the awesome cities in between allows you to have the ultimate California train trip experience. Here’s every stop you need to make along the way, and what to do at each.

First Stop: San Luis Obispo 

Before boarding the train and leaving the city behind, check out a few of the unique San Luis Obispo attractions . Bubblegum Alley is a must-see spot for adventurous souls; the 70-foot walls of the famed alleyway are lined with chewed gum from the hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. If you want to leave your own mark, choose your favorite color of gum and get to chewing. After visiting this interesting attraction, grab a cup of coffee at a neighboring cafe, savor a slice of cake at the Madonna Inn, or check out the local art galleries before heading to nearby beaches. At San Luis Obispo beaches you can go surfing, rent a kayak, or lounge on the sand before your train arrives and the real trip begins.

Second Stop: Santa Barbara

Spend some time in this coastal gem to walk around the historic mission, visit the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo, and relax on the city’s best beaches . However, an especially unique item is experiencing the Eat This, Shoot That food tours offered in Santa Barbara and Solvang; for the best of Santa Barbara’s most delectable secrets go for the Funk Zone tour. While you’re in the area, you’ll also want to explore the nearby Channel Islands. Kayaking through the islands is considered one of the coolest things to do in Santa Barbara, especially since it’s also the best way to discover the unique fauna and flora of the area . Santa Barbara’s charming hotels and laid-back lifestyle make it an easy place to stay for a day or two, so plan your Pacific Surfliner schedule accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out on all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Third Stop: Ventura

Next on your Pacific Surfliner stops list is the charming beach town of Ventura . Catch some waves at Surfers Point to meet the locals and see why this town is among the best in the state. The palm trees and coastal views provide the quintessential California vibes, inspiring residents and visitors alike to break out their longboards and paddleboards and spend every moment possible outside. You can head into the local bike shops to pick up your very own beach cruiser. This mode of transportation will allow you to immerse yourself in the rest of the cities along the way and will be a great reminder of your time in the quaint town of Ventura. Pro tip : Reserve space for a bicycle when you plan your Pacific Sufrlined beach  trip so your desired train can accommodate it.

Fourth Stop: Los Angeles

While there are many worthy stops between Ventura and San Diego, Los Angeles is one of the most iconic cities in the state and is definitely worth exploring over a day or two. Whether you’re an LA native, first-timer, or frequent visitor, there’s plenty you haven’t yet discovered. The art galleries , eateries, and boutiques here are one of a kind, making it easy to fill an entire weekend with different experiences. From shopping in Beverly Hills and celebrity spotting to going on the best Hollywood hikes and catching some waves in Santa Monica , there are infinite possibilities in Los Angeles .

Fifth Stop: San Diego

You have finally arrived at the last destination on your Pacific Surfliner adventure: Santa Fe Depot (which is centrally located in downtown San Diego and a short drive away from Balboa Park , Seaport Village, and Waterfront Park). You can also take the ferry over to Coronado island to wander around the charming boutiques, spend a night at the historic Hotel del Coronado , play a round of golf, and enjoy some much-needed relaxation time at the beach. 

The journey home is sure to be as beautiful as the train ride to San Diego, whether you decide to make multiple stops along the way or to go back directly. And luckily, there are plenty more train trips—including the Coast Starlight, which ventures to Seattle, and the California Zephyr, which heads halfway across the country to Chicago—that give you an opportunity to see other parts of the state as well.

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Top 10 California Train Trips

by DayTrippen

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Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley Wine Train has been in operation since 1989. The wine train can carry nearly 400 passengers through Napa Valley and usually makes two daily trips. A 1950s-era diesel engine pulls the Napa Valley Wine Train and travels adjacent to Highway 29 on a 3-hour trip through the valley. The train station is located at 1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA.

Roaring Camp Railroad Santa Cruz

Roaring Camp Railroad offers two different tours to suit your tastes. The Roaring Camp & Big Trees is a steam-powered narrow-gauge line using Shay and Heisler locomotives. Starting at the Roaring Camp depot in Felton, California, the line runs steep winding grades through the redwood forest to the top of nearby Bear Mountain. 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA.

Fillmore and Western Railway

(Under new owners, no train excursions are scheduled yet) Fillmore and Western Railway winds through the Heritage Valley, offering views of miles of orange, lemon, and avocado groves. The halfway point stopover is the town of Santa Paula, where passengers can enjoy lunch and explore before the return train trip. Fillmore & Western Railway 351 Santa Clara, Fillmore, California.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner travels along the California coast from San Luis Obispo and ends in San Diego. Some sections of the trip are inland. However, there are many sections where the train travels adjacent to the Pacific. Oceanview areas of the trip include Point Conception, Gaviota Coast, Santa Barbara Coast, North, and Central San Diego County coast.

Fort Bragg Skunk Train

The Fort Bragg Redwood Company originally built the Fort Bragg Skunk Train as the Fort Bragg Railroad in 1885. Today, the Skunk Train takes passengers on a seven-mile round trip. The train lets passengers enjoy beautiful Northern California scenery with views of redwood trees.

Poway-Midland Railway

While this trip may be short, it’s worth checking out Poway-Midland Railroad. Visitors can ride on a vintage 1907 Baldwin Steam Locomotive during the summer and holiday weekends. The rest of the year, the Poway-Midland Railroad uses a Los Angeles Yellow Trolley Car for trips around the park.  On special occasions, a 1950 Fairmont Speeder can be seen rolling along the track.

Pacific Southwest Railway Campo

Pacific Southwest Railway takes passengers on a 12-mile round-trip journey and the old San Diego & Arizona Railway track. A Diesel-electric locomotive pulls vintage passenger cars over this historic railroad route. There is also an excellent museum on-site with rolling stock and railroad artifacts. This train is a little off the beaten path, but worth the effort it takes to get there.

Niles Canyon Railway Sunol, California

Niles Canyon Railroad operates along a portion of the First Transcontinental Railroad constructed in the 1860s. The railway runs excursions on Sundays year-round, usually every week during the summer and less frequently during the winter. Niles Canyon Railroad also operates special train excursions during the year, including wine-tasting trains, beer-tasting trains, holiday excursions, and summer school trains.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad. The Sierra National Forest’s majestic woods provide the backdrop for the narrow gauge journey back in time. The two steam locomotives operate daily during the summer months. Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad 56001 Hwy 41, Fish Camp, CA 93623.

Sacramento River Fox Train

Pulled by a diesel locomotive, the Sacramento River Train features two dining cars, a club car, a concession car, and two open-air cars. The Sacramento River Fox Train runs from West Sacramento 10 miles to the outskirts of Woodland and back.

Fun places to ride trains in Nevada

Southern califonia railway museum, roaring camp railroads santa cruz.

Rode ’em all!

Great Job Ken

We will add a few more trains to the list.

Thanks for visiting Daytrippen.com

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, amtrak to california.

Five Amtrak routes travel to California: California Zephyr , Coast Starlight , Southwest Chief , Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle . You can board trains in the Midwest, Southwest (including Texas), Great Plains, around the Rocky Mountains and in the Pacific Northwest. If your starting location is east of Chicago, you’ll need to travel there or to New Orleans in order to connect with a California-bound train.

Note that trains enter the state in Northern and Southern California only, but you can transfer to trains that will take you to other destinations. Here’s what you need to know about each travel option. For schedules and custom travel recommendations, use the Find Trains feature on the Amtrak.com homepage.

California Zephyr

One of the most scenic Amtrak routes, the California Zephyr travels to Northern California from Chicago through multiple mountain ranges. California stops include Sacramento, Davis and Emeryville (there is an Amtrak bus shuttle to San Francisco if you book San Francisco as your final destination).

To reach more of California, you can transfer to San Joaquins and Coast Starlight trains in Sacramento and Emeryville. The San Joaquins route travels in the Central Valley to cities including Stockton, Modesto, Fresno and Bakersfield. The Coast Starlight travels through the entire state near the coast. Popular stops include Oakland, San Jose, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles.

Coast Starlight

If you live in the Pacific Northwest, the Coast Starlight is your best option to reach California by train. You can board the train in cities including Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, Portland, Salem and Eugene. You can also transfer to the Coast Starlight from Empire Builder trains in Seattle and Portland. The Empire Builder route travels through the Upper Midwest, Great Plains and Montana Rocky Mountains, so it’s a good option to reach California if you live in cities such as Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minot, Whitefish and Spokane.

Southwest Chief

As the name suggests, the Southwest Chief travels between Chicago and Los Angeles through the Southwest desert. You can board trains in Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona. Trains only stop in Southern California, including Los Angeles, Fullerton, Riverside and San Bernardino.

If you want to travel to San Diego, other cities south of LA or the central coast, you can transfer to the Pacific Surfliner train in Fullerton and Los Angeles. Otherwise, for destinations in Northern California, you can transfer to the Coast Starlight at the Los Angeles Union Station .

Texas Eagle/Sunset Limited

The Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited trains merge in San Antonio and travel to Los Angeles. Before joining together, the Sunset Limited departs from New Orleans and stops in Louisiana and Texas cities, and the Texas Eagle departs from Chicago and travels through the Midwest, Arkansas and Texas.

In addition to Los Angeles, the other popular California stop is Palm Springs. Exit here to enjoy the sunny city and to reach Joshua Tree National Park. You can also transfer to the Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight trains in Los Angeles to reach other areas of California.

More Information

• Amtrak Stations in California
• 10 best stops on the Coast Starlight
• 10 best Amtrak winter beach vacations

Top photo credit: Murray Foubister

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Map Shows New California High-Speed Rail Routes

A series of maps show the full extent of California's proposed high-speed rail routes that would provide an efficient and quick way of travel between the state's major cities.

Renewed interest has surfaced in high-speed rail travel after Brightline West, a new all-electric, 218-mile rail line bringing passengers from Las Vegas, Nevada, to Rancho Cucamonga, California , broke ground on Monday after construction was delayed for several years.

The project is expected to be completed before the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. The California High-Speed Rail Authority has another rail line planned that would provide a trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles in less than three hours, but progress has been slow.

According to maps on the Rail Authority's website, the proposed high-speed rail line would traverse three regions—northern, central and southern California.

"The Phase 1 system will connect San Francisco to the Los Angeles basin via the Central Valley in under three hours on trains capable of exceeding 200 miles per hour," the website said. "Phase 2 will extend to Sacramento and San Diego."

A spokesperson for the Authority told Newsweek that the project is at an "exciting time." There are 171 miles of rail line under construction, and there is environmental clearance for 422 miles.

"In the last year alone, the Authority has been awarded $3.3 billion in new federal funds to advance the work on the initial operating segment between Merced and Bakersfield, signifying a renewed federal partnership," the statement said.

Northern California project

There are two legs to the northern California project. Phase 1 involves creating a high-speed rail line from San Francisco to Merced, with stops in between at Millbrae-SFO, San Jose and Gilroy. Phase 2 would bring travelers from Sacramento to Merced with stops at Stockton and Modesto.

For the San Francisco to San José leg of the journey, the Authority plans to introduce high-speed rail service to the Caltrain corridor. Environmental clearance was completed in 2022, and construction of the Caltrain electrification is under way.

Environmental clearance also was completed for the San José to Merced leg.

"Electrifying the existing rail corridor from San José to Gilroy will modernize the rail corridor for electrified high-speed rail service and allow Caltrain to extend electrified service to southern Santa Clara County," the website said.

Central California project

The middle stint of the statewide project travels from Merced to Bakersfield with rail stations at Fresno and Kings/Tulare. Construction is most promising in this segment.

"The electrified high-speed rail line between Merced and Bakersfield is the first building block of the statewide system. This 171-mile line will offer the nation's first true electrified high-speed rail service," the Authority said on its website.

The spokesperson told Newsweek that this leg of the project is expected to be completed by 2030 to 2033.

Southern California project

The southern California stint also involves two phases. Phase 1 would bring travelers from Bakersfield to Anaheim with stops in Palmdale, Burbank and Los Angeles. Phase 2 would travel from Los Angeles to San Diego with stops at San Bernardino and Riverside. The southern California map also shows the Brightline West route.

The statewide project has been plagued with delays and price jumps. Voters approved the project in 2008, KTLA reported, with Phase 1 taking travelers from San Francisco to Los Angeles. At the time, the project was anticipated to be operational by 2020 and cost $33 billion.

Four years past the deadline, the project is still far from being completed and the price has jumped to $128 billion.

"The full Los Angeles to San Francisco line completion date is contingent on federal funding," the spokesperson told Newsweek .

According to a U.S. House testimony by Lee Ohanian, a UCLA professor and Stanford University fellow, California began its journey to high-speed rail in 1993 by creating the California Intercity High-Speed Rail Commission. Three years later, the commission was replaced by the California High-Speed Rail Authority.

"California's HSR project has little to show over this 30-year period. The project is significantly delayed, and its budget has increased to about four times its initial cost. Some of this is due to mistakes in planning, management, oversight, and accountability," Ohanian testified.

"But other factors reflect more endemic challenges in building HSR, including limitations in understanding the scope and size of the problems and risks that can arise in such a major infrastructure project."

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• A fearful flyer’s guide to train travel on the Coast Starlight
• Updated: Apr. 26, 2024, 3:05 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 26, 2024, 9:00 a.m.

The lounge car of the Coast Starlight train offers scenic views between Washington, Oregon and California.

The view from the Coast Starlight just north of the California/Oregon boarder.

The Coast Starlight train doesn't have wifi and often no cell reception. Bring a book to pass the time while enjoying the views.

Portland Union Station in 2020.

A roomette on the Coast Starlight train can sleep two. The two seats fold down and receive a mattress to turn into a bed. There's a second bunk above.

The lounge car of the Coast Starlight train offers scenic views between Washington, Oregon and California. South of Santa Barbara, the train pases oceanfront views.

Dining service on Amtrak is included with a room in a sleeper car. Guests can eat at a table in the dining car or, shown here, eat in their room.

The family room in an Amtrak train (in this case, the Texas Eagle) sleeps four, with two overhead bunks and two floor-level beds that fold out.

• Samantha Swindler | The Oregonian/OregonLive

If you already had a fear of flying, this isn’t your year to travel.

First there was the pilot charged with attempting to crash a plane that was diverted to Portland International Airport. Then, of course, a door plug fell off a plane somewhere over Washington County. Since then, a number of news articles have convinced me that my flying phobia isn’t so off the mark after all.

So, last month, I spent six days roundtrip traveling via Amtrak from Portland, down to Los Angeles via the scenic Coast Starlight , and east to Houston, Texas, aboard the Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited .

For all but one of the nights on the trains, I traveled first class in a sleeper car, where travelers get a private room with meals included.

My train trip cost a total of about $3,000. A roundtrip flight would have been somewhere in the range of $500.

Was it worth it? To someone with a crippling anxiety around flying, absolutely. Here’s what you can expect on a cross-country Amtrak journey, along with a few tips I learned along the way.

The biggest difference between air and rail travel is the first: the boarding experience.

As a “arrive at the airport two hours before your flight” person, I had no need to stress at the train station. Arriving 15 minutes before departure is plenty of time.

You just walk up to the train when it’s time to board and have your ticket scanned. No security check, no shoes being removed, no one looking at my luggage. I never even showed an ID. (Lest you get any ideas, a police dog did make the rounds in the Los Angeles Union Station lounge.)

The Coast Starlight route has 30 stops along 1,377 miles from Seattle to Los Angeles, cutting across the Cascade Range in Oregon, through Klamath Falls and Sacramento, and eventually traveling along the Pacific Ocean in Southern California. From Portland to L.A., travel time is about 30 hours.

The Coast Starlight’s claim to fame is its lounge car, which is open to all train passengers on a first come, no holds basis. With massive, curved windows that reach into the ceiling, it’s the best way to see the landscape.

(And a bonus for those who feel claustrophobic on planes: every large window doubles as an emergency exit.)

The train passes golf courses and prisons, orchards and oil rigs, cities and tiny towns. It’s a great way to see the country in all its diversity.

There’s a shared awe and camaraderie in the lounge car, where everyone whips out their phones in unison and others beckoning you over for the best views. Those views happen on both sides of the train. If you see a steep incline outside your window, turn around. Odds are there’s a breathtaking cliff and vista on the other side.

In Oregon, you’ll pass Willamette Falls in Oregon City and the 5th Street Public Market in downtown Eugene. In the tiny town of Westfir, you can see the Office Covered Bridge , built in 1944 across the North Fork Middle Fork Willamette River, before climbing through the mountains.

There’s one section where you’ll want to plan ahead to snag a west-facing seat in the lounge car: The tracks between Santa Barbara and Ventura run right along the ocean.

Another thing about Amtrak: You can’t book a seat or a room on a specific side of the train. Because the cars are able to be pulled from either direction, the booking agent won’t be able to tell you whether you’ll be looking east or west on the day of your travel. If you don’t like your window view, check out the lounge car.

Meals in the dining car are included when you book in the sleeper car, but you can purchase them from coach. It’s $20 for breakfast, $25 for lunch and $45 for dinner.

Each dining car booth seats four, and if there aren’t four in your party, there will be at dinner. This was my favorite part of the trip — dining with different strangers for every meal. But if that’s not for you, sleeper car travelers can also get their meals delivered to their rooms. I also heard an attendant offer to deliver meals to people in their coach seats.

Compared with airline food, train food is haute cuisine. It comes on a real plate for starters. I had fresh salads, vegetarian pasta dishes, a burger, and a fabulous blueberry cheesecake.

The trains also had cafe cars, where anyone can purchase snacks, hot meals and drinks, including alcohol. Cash and cards accepted.

First class vs. coach

If you have the resources, an upgrade to a sleeper car for multi-day trips is worth every penny. I had a roomette for much of the trip, which was just enough for a single rider but might be a tight squeeze for two, particularly if either traveler has mobility issues. The two facing seats recline to form a narrow cot; a second cot folds down from an upper bunk. Your car attendant will provide turn-down service and set up your mattress, blankets and pillows.

I spent two days in the family room of the Texas Eagle, which is designed to sleep four but is downright luxurious for one. The room spanned the entire train width and had two windows. Neither space had its own toilet or shower, but the shared facilities in the sleeper car are just fine.

I never had the opportunity to stay in a bedroom , but that comes with two beds, one window, a sink, and a tiny shower/toilet combo bathroom.

I wouldn’t recommend an overnight coach trip. While you can get up, walk around, sit at a cafe table or get some air in the lounge car, you’re ultimately going to spend an entire night trying to sleep next to a stranger.

If you plan to travel via sleeper car, book your tickets far in advance. I had difficulty finding a room for the duration of the Coast Starlight.

The Amtrak website will only allow you to book either coach or first class for the duration of your time on a train, but you might find that a room is available for a shorter segment. I was unable to book a roomette from Los Angeles to Portland, but later learned there had been a room available from Sacramento to Portland. If you can’t find what you’re looking for online, speak to an Amtrak agent by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL.

Train culture

Plane travel is a means to an end. I find it hard to believe that anyone enjoys flying. They do it because they want to be someplace else, and that someplace is not the cabin of a Boeing 747.

Most first-class train travelers, however, are here for the journey. I met lots of retirees who had the time (and financial resources) to slow-travel the country. Some had been on the rails for weeks at a time, stopping at various cities. One fellow passenger, Linda Groover of California, told me the train was the most romantic way to travel.

“I worked for American Airlines for many years,” she said, “and I was exposed to just about every kind of flight you can imagine, including a flight around the world. But when you take a train, you see the land, you see the countryside, you meet the local people, and it’s just far more adventurous. It’s also relaxing.”

Most everyone is happy to chat ­– under the right circumstances. I had wonderful, engaging conversations with all my dining companions. But those conversations were only obligated to last a half-hour. I was reluctant to even make eye contact with the woman who was my seatmate in coach for 24 hours. No one wants to open that Pandora’s box.

What to bring

Amtrak’s website advertises “free wifi on trains!” but you need to look at the fine print to find out which trains, and those trains do not include the Coast Starlight, Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited.

Not only will you not have wifi, you often won’t have cell service.

Once you accept this, it’s actually quite freeing.

Bring a few books.

Other things to bring:

- An extension cord with multiple outlets. This is helpful in both the rooms (which come with a single outlet) and in coach, where an outlet might be on the other side of your seatmate.

- Small bills to tip the staff, especially in the sleeper car. The car attendant will turn down your bed each evening and schedule reservations for you in the dining car. There are also servers for each meal.

- Flip-flops for the shower, just like those college-dorm days. You’ll only have access to a shower in the sleeper cars, but even coach has a toilet/changing room where you’ll have space to change clothes.

- In coach, bring your own blanket and pillow. These are only provided in the sleeper cars. Wear comfortable shoes or bring slippers to put over your socks in coach. Don’t be the guy who goes shoeless. Ugh.

- Amtrak allows passengers two 50-pound carry-on bags, up to 28-by-22-by-14-inches each, plus a personal item like a briefcase or backpack, for no extra fee. If you’re taking a multi-night train ride, pack the things you’ll need in your personal bag, and either check your big luggage or stow it in the luggage racks. I learned the hard way that a large suitcase won’t fit in a roomette. An Amtrak employee recommended I check my luggage through to Portland while I was in coach so I didn’t have to worry about anyone grabbing my bag from the luggage rack during a random stop.

There’s so much to see along an Amtrak journey. You can stretch your legs either between cars or during several short stops along the way.

“ Slow travel” costs more and takes longer, but if you can’t handle the stress of flying, it’s a great alternative.

-- Samantha Swindler covers features for The Oregonian/OregonLive and Here is Oregon . Reach her at [email protected] .

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Construction on Brightline's High-speed Rail Between Los Angeles and Las Vegas Is Officially Underway

The Brightline West groundbreaking, on Earth Day, took place at the site of a future station in Las Vegas on Monday.

Courtesy of Brightline West

Construction of a high-speed railway between southern California and Las Vegas officially broke ground on Monday, bringing the West Coast one step closer to a sustainable transportation option between the two states.

The Brightline West groundbreaking, on Earth Day, took place at the site of a future station in Las Vegas, the company shared with Travel + Leisure . Following the groundbreaking, the project is expected to take about four years to complete.

“This day is a major milestone in building the future of American rail and the jobs that come with it,” Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg wrote in a Facebook post , adding , “We're investing in the future of America's passenger rail system — funding high-speed rail projects in the West and enhancing service for communities across the country.” 

When it is finished, the railway will feature an all-electric, 218-mile train service connecting Las Vegas with the Los Angeles area . The flagship station will be located in Sin City with additional stations located in Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Rancho Cucamonga, California.

The train is expected to travel with speeds up to 200 mph and take about two hours to get between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga. Work on the high-speed rail line started earlier this year with field investigation work, including along I-15 in California.

The project is part of a larger investment from the Department of Transportation (DOT), which allocated $8.2 billion in funding for several key rail projects across the country.

Beyond the West Coast, Brightline has built several high-speed train routes in Florida. The company, which first launched there in 2018 , offers service to popular cities like West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Aventura, Boca Raton, and Orlando. The company plans to add a brand-new station on the Treasure Coast in Stuart, Florida, in the second half of 2026.

Brightline also recently partnered with Princess Cruises in Florida to make getting to the port easier with a new “Rail & Sail" service.

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A New High-Speed Train Between Las Vegas and California Breaks Ground This Week

Brightline will shuttle passengers between sin city and an l.a. suburb in just over two hours., tori latham, tori latham's most recent stories.

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The future of train travel is beginning to take shape.

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The $12 billion project is scheduled to be completed by early 2028, The Washington Post noted, in time for people who will be in the area for that year’s Summer Olympics in L.A. Brightline’s electric trains will leave every 45 minutes from both stations, making two additional stops in the California towns of Hesperia and Apple Valley during the 218-mile journey. Going at speeds of 186 miles per hour, the train will cut down on the three-hour-plus travel time between Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga—and that’s without traffic, of course.

While we’ll have to wait a few years to get a taste of the Brightline trip, but the company is betting on it being game-changer when it comes to travel to and from Sin City.

Tori Latham is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. She was previously a copy editor at The Atlantic, and has written for publications including The Cut and The Hollywood Reporter. When not…

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High-speed rail to Las Vegas is coming as soon as 2028. Here are more details

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Southern Californians can expect to board a high-speed train as soon as 2028 for a two-hour ride to Las Vegas, officials on the $12-billion project said when construction ceremonially broke ground Monday in Sin City.

“We’ll move millions of people between two of the most exciting and important regions of the country, Southern California and here in southern Nevada,” said Wes Edens, Brightline’s founder and chairman and a private equity billionaire. “We are the only industrialized country in the world that doesn’t have a high-speed rail in America, and four years from now, we won’t be saying that anymore.”

At the soon-to-be site of Brightline’s train depot in Las Vegas, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg joined Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo and Brightline executives to tout the 218-mile federally subsidized electric rail system. Backers of the line say it will help reduce pollution along often congested Interstate 15, which runs between the two regions.

“I really view this as the beginning of the high-speed rail era in the United States of America,” Buttigieg said.

The project, whose construction launched on Earth Day, is expected to cut 800 million pounds of carbon pollution a year once completed, Buttigieg said.

Brightline, a private company that operates an intercity rail line connecting Miami and Orlando, Fla., hopes to be the first to run a private high-speed service in the U.S.

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Its proposed railway has rapidly gone from blueprints to construction, unlike California’s high-speed line between Los Angeles and the Bay Area, whose progress has been slowed to a crawl by political disputes, cost overruns and permit delays.

To get the L.A.-to-Vegas idea off the ground, the federal government awarded Brightline West $3 billion from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act , which authorized up to $102 billion for rail improvements. The rest of the project will be privately funded, although taxpayers are contributing there as well; the Biden administration has enabled the project to borrow $3.5 billion through tax-exempt bonds .

The rail line will run within the highway median and support speeds of up to 200 mph. Upon completion, it will include 322 miles of overhead electrical lines to power the trains.

Even though ticket sales are four years away, here’s what we already know about possible ticket prices and stops along the route.

How much will tickets cost?

Brightline hasn’t announced ticket prices yet or even given a range of possible charges. With the project headed into four years of construction, Edens said, the company is “hardly ready to set prices right now.”

But Edens noted that ticket charges on other high-speed rail lines average 50 cents to $1 per mile, while Amtrak’s express service from New York to Washington costs about $1.25 a mile.

Edens previously told The Times that he’s looking at those amounts as possible charges on this line, which would put the cost at more than $400 for a round trip from Rancho Cucamonga to Las Vegas.

But he noted on Monday that to stay competitive with airfare and driving, the price would probably go up and down, depending on demand, seasons and other factors.

Where will the stations be?

Southern Californians can catch a ride on the high-speed train at stations in Rancho Cucamonga, Hesperia, Victor Valley and Las Vegas.

About four miles north of Ontario International Airport, the Rancho Cucamonga station will sit on a five-acre property at the northwest corner of Milliken Avenue and Azusa Court in San Bernardo County. This station will be co-located with California Metrolink trains to and from downtown Los Angeles and other locations in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.

The Hesperia station will be at the 15 Freeway and Joshua Street interchange. This station also will host local rail service for residents in the high desert on select weekday trains.

In Apple Valley, the Victor Valley station will be on a 300-acre parcel southeast of Dale Evans Parkway and the 15 Freeway interchange. This station is intended to offer a future connection to the multimodal High Desert Corridor and the California High Speed Rail line.

Las Vegas’ station will be situated on the Las Vegas Strip, north of Blue Diamond Road between the 15 Freeway and Las Vegas Boulevard. This station will give riders access to the Harry Reid International Airport, the Las Vegas Convention Center and the NFL Raiders’ Allegiant Stadium through local transit services.

All four stations are slated to have parking. Those in Rancho Cucamonga and Las Vegas will have approximately 80,000 square feet of parking, and Victor Valley is expected to have 20,000 square feet. No details were available Monday about the parking planned for the Hesperia station.

More to Read

Letters to the Editor: Is California’s future high-speed rail too late and too costly to be worth it?

March 30, 2024

Despite some progress, state’s high-speed rail is $100 billion short and many years from reality

March 21, 2024

Biden touts high-speed rail between Southern California and Las Vegas

March 19, 2024

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Karen Garcia is a reporter on the Fast Break Desk, the team that has a pulse on breaking news at the Los Angeles Times. She was previously a reporter on the Utility Journalism Team, which focused on service journalism. Her previous stints include reporting for the San Luis Obispo New Times and KCBX Central Coast Public Radio.

Rachel Uranga covers transportation and mobility for the Los Angeles Times. She previously reported for the Los Angeles Business Journal, Reuters in Mexico City and Southern California News Group, where she later served on its editorial board.

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Construction starting on $12 billion high-speed rail between SoCal, Las Vegas

The project is touted as the first true high-speed passenger rail line in the nation, designed to reach speeds of 186 mph.

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. (KABC) -- Construction is expected to begin Monday on a $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Southern California and Las Vegas.

Brightline West aims to lay 218 miles of new track between a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip and another new facility in Rancho Cucamonga. That trip usually takes well over three hours by car.

The company says its fully-electric train will take just over two hours each way.

Almost the full distance is to be built in the median of Interstate 15, with a station stop in the Victorville area.

Forecasts are for 11 million one-way passengers per year, or some 30,000 per day, with fares well below airline travel costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

In a statement, Brightline Holdings founder and Chairperson Wes Edens called the moment "the foundation for a new industry."

Brightline aims to link other U.S. cities that are too near to each other for flying between them to make sense and too far for people to drive the distance, Edens said.

The project is scheduled to be complete by the time Los Angeles hosts the Summer Olympics in 2028.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Monday will join Brightline leaders at the start of the construction in Vegas. Brightline received $6.5 billion in backing from the Biden administration, including a $3 billion grant from federal infrastructure funds and approval to sell another $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds. The company won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds.

The construction is expected to create jobs for many in Southern California.

"We're looking at thousands of jobs as a result of this and hundreds of millions of dollars of investments, and that impact is going to be felt for years to come," said Rancho Cucamonga City Manager John Gillison. "This project will have a big impact on California, and especially Southern California."

Other fast trains

The project is touted as the first true high-speed passenger rail line in the nation, designed to reach speeds of 186 mph (300 kph), comparable to Japan's Shinkansen bullet trains.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings already operates the Miami-to-Orlando line with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It launched service in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September. It offers 16 round-trips per day, with one-way tickets for the 235-mile (378-kilometer) distance costing about $80.

Other fast trains in the U.S. include Amtrak's Acela, which can top 150 mph (241 kph) while sharing tracks with freight and commuter service between Boston and Washington, D.C.

Ideas for connecting other U.S. cities with high-speed passenger trains have been floated in recent years, including Dallas to Houston; Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina; and Chicago to St. Louis. Most have faced delays.

In California, voters in 2008 approved a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco, but the plan has been beset by rising costs and routing disputes. A 2022 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority projected the cost had more than tripled to $105 billion.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Related Topics

• RANCHO CUCAMONGA
• SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY
• HIGH SPEED RAIL

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