Amtrak Stations in Arizona
Arizona, a land of breathtaking deserts, towering saguaros, and vibrant cities, offers a unique way to explore its beauty: by train. While not as extensive as its highway network, Amtrak provides a charming and often scenic alternative for connecting across the state and beyond.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, exploring historic Route 66, or visiting the cultural hubs of Tucson, understanding Arizona’s Amtrak stations and their connections is key. This guide will give you a complete rundown, including essential distances to major cities and airports.
Arizona is served by two main Amtrak routes:
- The Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
- The Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles)
Let’s explore each station!
Southwest Chief Route: Northern Arizona’s Scenic Journey
The Southwest Chief carves a path through northern Arizona, offering passengers stunning views of high desert landscapes, petrified forests, and close proximity to the mighty Grand Canyon.
1. Kingman (KNG)
Location: Northwestern Arizona, on Historic Route 66. About Kingman: A classic Route 66 town, Kingman offers a step back in time with its historic downtown, classic diners, and the Arizona Route 66 Museum. It’s also a gateway to Grand Canyon West (home of the Skywalk) and Laughlin, Nevada.
Distances from Kingman Amtrak Station:
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 170 miles | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Las Vegas, NV | 105 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Flagstaff | 150 miles | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Grand Canyon West | 75 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Havasu Falls (Supai) | 140 miles (plus hike) | 2 hours 30 minutes |
Airport Connections:
| Airport | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Las Vegas | 105 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | 170 miles | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Flagstaff Pulliam (FLG) | 150 miles | 2 hours 15 minutes |
2. Flagstaff (FLG)
Location: Central Northern Arizona, nestled among ponderosa pines. About Flagstaff: A vibrant mountain town, Flagstaff is a major hub for Northern Arizona. It’s the closest major city to the Grand Canyon South Rim, a gateway to Sedona’s red rocks, and a popular destination for skiing (Arizona Snowbowl) and hiking. Its historic downtown is bustling with shops, restaurants, and breweries.
Distances from Flagstaff Amtrak Station:
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon South Rim (Visitor Center) | 80 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Sedona | 30 miles | 45 minutes |
| Phoenix | 145 miles | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Tucson | 250 miles | 4 hours |
| Winslow | 60 miles | 1 hour |
Airport Connections:
| Airport | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Flagstaff Pulliam (FLG) | 5 miles | 10 minutes |
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | 145 miles | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Las Vegas | 250 miles | 4 hours |
3. Winslow (WLS)
Location: East-central Arizona, also on Historic Route 66. About Winslow: Famous globally for the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy,” Winslow proudly features the “Standin’ on the Corner” Park. Beyond this iconic spot, the town serves as a convenient base for exploring Meteor Crater and the Petrified Forest National Park.
Distances from Winslow Amtrak Station:
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Meteor Crater | 20 miles | 20 minutes |
| Petrified Forest National Park | 60 miles | 1 hour |
| Flagstaff | 60 miles | 1 hour |
| Phoenix | 190 miles | 3 hours |
| Canyon de Chelly | 120 miles | 2 hours |
Airport Connections:
| Airport | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Flagstaff Pulliam (FLG) | 60 miles | 1 hour |
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | 190 miles | 3 hours |
Sunset Limited Route: Southern Arizona’s Desert Passage
The Sunset Limited travels through Arizona’s southern desert, connecting travelers to vibrant cities and unique natural landscapes. This route is your gateway to Phoenix (via a connection) and Tucson.
4. Yuma (YUM)
Location: Southwestern Arizona, on the border with California and Mexico. About Yuma: A historical city with a rich past, Yuma is known for its infamous Territorial Prison State Historic Park, its charming historic downtown, and as a popular winter destination for snowbirds. The Colorado River offers recreational activities.
Distances from Yuma Amtrak Station:
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 180 miles | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| San Diego, CA | 170 miles | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Tucson | 240 miles | 3 hours 45 minutes |
| Algodones, Mexico (border) | 10 miles | 15 minutes |
Airport Connections:
| Airport | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yuma International (YUM) | 4 miles | 10 minutes |
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | 180 miles | 2 hours 45 minutes |
| San Diego Intl. (SAN), CA | 170 miles | 2 hours 30 minutes |
5. Maricopa (MRC) – The Gateway to Phoenix!
Location: South-central Arizona, south of Phoenix. About Maricopa: While Maricopa itself is a growing community, its primary significance for Amtrak travelers is its role as the closest Amtrak station to Phoenix. There is no direct Amtrak service into downtown Phoenix. Travelers wishing to reach Phoenix must detrain here and arrange for onward transportation.
Important Note for Phoenix Travelers: From Maricopa, you’ll need to arrange a taxi, ride-share service (Uber/Lyft), or a pre-booked shuttle/car service to reach Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) or downtown Phoenix. There are no public transit connections directly from the station.
Distances from Maricopa Amtrak Station:
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Phoenix | 35 miles | 45 minutes – 1 hour |
| Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) | 35 miles | 45 minutes – 1 hour |
| Tucson | 70 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Casa Grande | 15 miles | 20 minutes |
Airport Connections:
| Airport | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | 35 miles | 45 minutes – 1 hour |
| Tucson International (TUS) | 70 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes |
6. Tucson (TUS)
Location: Southern Arizona, a major metropolitan area. About Tucson: A vibrant city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Tucson boasts the stunning Saguaro National Park (east and west districts), the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac, the University of Arizona, and a thriving culinary scene (it’s a UNESCO City of Gastronomy!). The Amtrak station is conveniently located right in the heart of downtown.
Distances from Tucson Amtrak Station:
| Destination | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | 115 miles | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Saguaro National Park (West) | 15 miles | 25 minutes |
| Nogales (Mexico border) | 65 miles | 1 hour |
| Bisbee | 90 miles | 1 hour 30 minutes |
Airport Connections:
| Airport | Approximate Driving Distance | Approximate Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tucson International (TUS) | 8 miles | 20 minutes |
| Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) | 115 miles | 1 hour 45 minutes |
Tips for Amtrak Travel in Arizona:
- Book Ahead: Especially for sleeper cars or during peak seasons, tickets can sell out.
- Flexibility: Amtrak trains can experience delays, so build in buffer time if you have tight connections, especially from Maricopa to PHX.
- Connecting to Phoenix: Always remember Maricopa is your Phoenix gateway. Plan your ground transportation in advance.
- Scenery: Take advantage of the large windows! The views are spectacular, especially on the Southwest Chief.
- Luggage: Amtrak is generally more generous with luggage than airlines, but check their specific policies.
- Dining: Both routes offer dining cars (full-service or flexible menus depending on the train type) and cafe cars.
- Accessibility: Amtrak strives for accessibility; inform them of any needs when booking.
Traveling by train through Arizona offers a unique perspective on the state’s diverse landscapes and rich history. From the high deserts of the north to the saguaro-filled valleys of the south, Amtrak provides a comfortable and memorable journey. So, sit back, relax, and let the rails carry you through the Grand Canyon State!