Route Summary
The Coast Starlight is Amtraks premier longdistance service that connects Seattle, WA, to LosAngeles, CA. The rail line traverses the Scenic Pacific Coast, the Cascade Mountains, the Central Valley, and the iconic SantaBarbara coastline. The full journey covers approximately 1,377 miles and typically takes about 35hours.
Four trains operate each week in each direction, offering a blend of coach, business class, and sleeper accommodations. The schedule is designed to give passengers daylight travel through the most picturesque segments, especially the stretch between SanLuisObispo and SantaBarbara.
Northbound Schedule (LosAngeles Seattle)
| Day of Week | Departure (LA) | Arrival (Seattle) | Key Stops (Departure Times) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8:45AM | 7:10PM (Tue) | SantaBarbara 9:53AM SanLuisObispo 12:02PM Fresno 2:14PM Sacramento 7:31PM (Tue) Portland 6:23AM (Wed) |
| Wednesday | 8:45AM | 7:10PM (Thu) | SantaBarbara 9:53AM SanLuisObispo 12:02PM Redding 5:42PM (Thu) Portland 6:23AM (Fri) |
| Friday | 8:45AM | 7:10PM (Sat) | SantaBarbara 9:53AM Sacramento 7:31PM (Sat) Portland 6:23AM (Sun) |
| Sunday | 8:45AM | 7:10PM (Mon) | SantaBarbara 9:53AM Fresno 2:14PM Seattle 7:10PM (Mon) |
All times are local.Delays due to weather or freight traffic are possible, especially through the Cascade Tunnel.
Southbound Schedule (Seattle LosAngeles)
| Day of Week | Departure (Seattle) | Arrival (LA) | Key Stops (Departure Times) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8:30PM | 7:15AM (Thu) | Portland 5:30AM (Wed) Sacramento 5:40PM (Wed) SanLuisObispo 7:06AM (Thu) SantaBarbara 8:10AM (Thu) |
| Thursday | 8:30PM | 7:15AM (Sat) | Portland 5:30AM (Fri) Redding 6:32PM (Fri) Fresno 12:12AM (Sat) |
| Saturday | 8:30PM | 7:15AM (Mon) | Portland 5:30AM (Sun) Sacramento 5:40PM (Sun) SantaBarbara 8:10AM (Mon) |
| Monday | 8:30PM | 7:15AM (Wed) | Portland 5:30AM (Tue) Fresno 12:12AM (Wed) SantaBarbara 8:10AM (Wed) |
The southbound train departs Seattle in the evening, allowing passengers to sleep through most of the mountainous segment.
Travel Tips & Practical Information
- Booking: Reserve at least 30days in advance for the best fare. Sleepercar reservations can be made up to 12months ahead.
- Meals: The dining car serves a full menu from breakfast through dinner. Coach passengers may purchase snacks from the caf car.
- Luggage: Two carryon items (max 25lb each) are free; checked baggage is allowed with a $35 fee per piece.
- Scenic Highlights: Keep a window seat for the best views of the Cascade Range, the Salish Sea, the Sierra Nevada foothills, and the Pacific coastline.
- WiFi: Complimentary WiFi is offered on most of the route, though signal loss can occur in remote mountain passes.
- Pet Policy: Small dogs and cats are permitted in approved carriers for a $30 fee per pet.
- Accessibility: All stations on the Coast Starlight route are wheelchair accessible; request assistance when booking.
