Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska – A Complete Travel Guide
Are you ready for an amazing adventure that takes you from the Los Angeles sunrise to the wild beauty of Alaska? Although Amtrak does not operate a direct train route to Alaska, it does not mean you can’t enjoy your trip with Amtrak. With just a little preparation, you can create a scenic and unforgettable journey that includes a train, scenic ferry ride, and Alaska’s famous railroads.
This guide will show you the Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska route and how to plan your trip using trains, ferries, and Alaska’s railroad system.
How to get from Los Angeles to Alaska with Amtrak?
Amtrak does not have a direct train route, but you can take a coastal-straight train from Los Angeles to Seattle and then continue your journey by plane or ferry. Below are the essential details
| Route | Los Angeles (Union Station) to Seattle) |
| Duration | 35 to 40 hours |
| Coach cost | $120–$150 one way |
| Sleeper cost | $300–$600 one way |
| Amenities | Dining car, observation car, Wi-Fi, sleeper cabins |
Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska Price Breakdown
If you are traveling from Los Angeles to Alaska, your journey may include multiple steps, including train, ferry, or flight, in which you can choose according to your budget and the experience you are looking for. Here is a breakdown of the cost.
| Part of the trip | Approximate cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Train: Los angeles to seattle | Coastal starlight: coach or sleeper class | $120–$600 one way |
| Flight: Seattle to Alaska | Fly from Seattle to major Alaskan cities like Anchorage or Fairbanks | $200–$500 one way |
| Ferry: Berlingham to Alaska | Take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry | $300–$800 one way |
Popular Attractions Along The Route
The journey from Los Angeles to Alaska isn’t just about the destination. The route itself is full of scenic and cultural gems worth experiencing. Here are all the popular attractions along the Amtrak Coast Starlight route from Los Angeles to Seattle.
- Pacific Coastline: The route runs along the ocean, offering sweeping views of beaches, cliffs, and crashing waves. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the journey and feels like riding on the edge of the sea.
- Santa Ynez Mountains: After the coast, the route moves through the hills and vineyards. The Santa Ynez is a peaceful area, with golden fields in summer and green valleys in spring.
- Cascade Mountains: The Amtrak train passes through the stunning Cascade Range with snowy peaks and deep forest. This landscape is especially beautiful in winter and fall.
- Calm sea: As you are about to reach Seattle, you’ll see the calm sea, ferries, and distant mountains. The blend of coastal scenery and city skyline makes for a perfect ending. This is the most scenic part of the journey and makes your journey feel like you are riding on the edge of the sea.
Key Stations along the Route
| Station | Details |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles Union Station (LAX) | Historic Spanish-style station in downtown Los Angeles. |
| Van Nuys, CA | Suburban stop in the San Fernando Valley |
| Santa Barbara, CA | Beautiful coastal town with beaches, Spanish architecture, and wine country. |
| San Luis Obispo, CA | A scenic Central Coast city surrounded by vineyards and hills |
| Salinas, CA | Known as the “Salad Bowl of the World,” and gateway to Monterey Bay. |
| San Jose, CA (Diridon Station) | Hub of Silicon Valley and a great spot to explore the nearby tech culture. |
| Oakland Jack London Square (OKJ) | Waterfront Station is across the bay from San Francisco. Great connection to the Bay Area. |
| Sacramento, CA | California’s capital city, known for its Gold Rush history and the California State Railroad Museum. |
| Redding, CA | A scenic northern California town with access to Shasta Lake and Mount Lassen. |
| Klamath Falls, OR | A quiet Oregon town surrounded by lakes and forests. |
| Eugene, OR | Home to the University of Oregon, with a vibrant arts and outdoor scene |
| Salem, OR | The capital of Oregon, surrounded by lush Willamette Valley vineyards. |
| Portland, OR (PDX) | Hip and green city known for its coffee culture, breweries, and gardens. |
| Vancouver, WA | A small Washington city just before reaching Seattle. |
| Seattle, WA (King Street Station) | A beautiful historic station in the heart of downtown. From here, your journey to Alaska continues. |
Why You Should Choose Amtrak for Your Trip to Alaska?
Amtrak offers you a journey you will remember forever with its breathtaking view, comfortable seating, and facilities offered onboard, which make every mile enjoyable and relaxing. Here are all the key features that make your journey beautiful and comfortable.
- Breathtaking Views: From the moment you step aboard, you enjoy the most stunning landscapes the West Coast and Pacific Northwest have to offer. Imagine watching vast coastlines, towering mountains, and dense forests glide past your window, a beautiful moving moment you won’t get from an aircraft.
- Comfortable seating: Whether you travel by a coach or sleeper accommodation, Amtrak prioritizes comfort by providing spacious seats to stretch your legs. You can even relax and sleep during your journey. Amtrak makes a long journey feel like a breeze.
- Onboard Facilities: Amtrak provides a wide range of facilities to make your journey comfortable and stress-free. Amtrak provides freshly prepared meals and beverage options you can enjoy while enjoying the scenery and breathtaking views. Amtrak provides Wi-Fi on many trains, along with USB outlets and charging points, so you can easily charge your devices and capture every moment of your adventure without worrying about battery life.
- Accessible Traveling: Amtrak makes sure to provide accessible traveling options by making it convenient and comfortable to reach. Stations and trains are designed to be accessible and located strategically, making it easier to reach. Amtrak also features wheelchair ramps, priority seating, and accessible restrooms. The staff is trained to assist passengers, ensuring a smooth boarding process and support throughout the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although Amtrak does not offer a direct train to Alaska. But you can take the coastal starlight train from Los Angeles to Seattle and continue your journey by ferry or flight.
The full journey can take 3 to 7 days, depending on your route. The train from LA to Seattle takes about 35 hours, followed by a 3–4 hour flight or a 2–4 day ferry to Alaska.
Expect to spend between $700 $2,000, depending on your travel choices. Amtrak coach fares start at $120, flights around $300–$600, and ferries from $300–$800.
The Coast Starlight route is famously scenic, especially between Ventura and San Luis Obispo, where the train runs alongside the Pacific Ocean.
Meals are included on Amtrak if you’re traveling in a sleeper cabin. In coach class, you can purchase meals and snacks from the dining or café car.
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