There’s something uniquely enchanting about train travel, especially when the landscapes outside your window are as diverse and stunning as those found in Washington State. From the Puget Sound’s sparkling waters and the Cascade Mountains’ majestic peaks to the rolling farmlands and high desert plains of the east, Washington (WA, or “The Evergreen State”) offers an incredible backdrop for an Amtrak adventure.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic escape, a comfortable way to commute, or an eco-friendly mode of transport, Amtrak in Washington has you covered. This guide will walk you through the primary routes, key distances, and how to connect with major airports, making your train journey planning a breeze.
Amtrak Railway Routes in Washington State
Washington is served by three main Amtrak routes, each offering a distinct experience and connecting different parts of the state and beyond.
- Amtrak Cascades: This is the Pacific Northwest’s regional workhorse, connecting 18 cities along an approximately 467-mile corridor from Vancouver, B.C., through Seattle and Portland, to Eugene, Oregon. Its distinctive Talgo trainsets are a familiar sight, offering Wi-Fi, a bistro car, and comfortable seating with large windows.
- Coast Starlight: Often called “America’s Most Beautiful Train Ride,” the Coast Starlight travels daily between Seattle and Los Angeles. In Washington, it shares the corridor with the Cascades route, offering long-distance travelers breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, the Puget Sound, and the Cascade range.
- Empire Builder: A legendary transcontinental route connecting Seattle and Portland with Chicago, passing through Glacier National Park. The Washington portion of this route is particularly scenic, traversing the dramatic Cascade Mountains (via the Stevens Pass tunnel) and then stretching across the vast plains of Eastern Washington. Note that the train splits/joins in Spokane, with one section going to Seattle and the other to Portland.
Here’s an overview of the key stops in Washington for each route:
Table 1: Amtrak Routes & Key Washington Stops
| Route Name | Key Washington Stops (Highlights) | Direction / Connects To | Unique Aspect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Cascades | Vancouver, WA; Kelso-Longview; Centralia; Olympia-Lacey; Tacoma; Seattle; Edmonds; Everett; Stanwood; Mt. Vernon; Bellingham | Portland, OR; Eugene, OR; Vancouver, BC (Canada) | Regional, frequent service with Talgo trains. |
| Coast Starlight | Vancouver, WA; Kelso-Longview; Centralia; Olympia-Lacey; Tacoma; Seattle | Portland, OR; Sacramento, CA; Los Angeles, CA | “America’s Most Beautiful Train Ride” (long-distance). |
| Empire Builder | Spokane; Ephrata; Wenatchee; Leavenworth; Everett; Seattle (and a separate branch for Portland) | Glacier NP, MT; Minneapolis, MN; Chicago, IL | Legendary transcontinental journey, two WA branches. |
Distances Between Key Washington Amtrak Stations
Understanding the distances and approximate travel times can help you plan your journey effectively. Please note that times are approximate and can vary due to factors like track conditions, freight traffic, and scheduled stops.
Table 2: Approximate Distances & Travel Times for Key Washington Segments
| From Amtrak Station | To Amtrak Station | Approx. Distance (Miles) | Approx. Travel Time | Route(s) Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | Edmonds | 17 | 30 mins | Cascades, Empire Builder |
| Seattle | Everett | 35 | 1 hour | Cascades, Empire Builder |
| Seattle | Tacoma | 35 | 1 hour | Cascades, Coast Starlight |
| Seattle | Olympia-Lacey | 60 | 1.5 hours | Cascades, Coast Starlight |
| Seattle | Bellingham | 95 | 2.5 hours | Cascades |
| Seattle | Vancouver, WA | 175 | 3.5 hours | Cascades, Coast Starlight |
| Seattle | Portland, OR | 185 | 4 hours | Cascades, Coast Starlight |
| Seattle | Vancouver, BC (CAN) | 150 | 4 hours (incl. border) | Cascades |
| Seattle | Leavenworth | 115 | 3 hours | Empire Builder |
| Seattle | Wenatchee | 170 | 4 hours | Empire Builder |
| Seattle | Spokane | 280 | 7-8 hours | Empire Builder |
| Spokane | Wenatchee | 110 | 2.5 hours | Empire Builder |
Connecting with Washington’s Operational Airports
For those combining air and rail travel, several of Washington’s airports offer convenient access to Amtrak stations.
Table 3: Major Washington Airports & Amtrak Connectivity
| Airport Name (Code) | Nearest Major Amtrak Station(s) | Connectivity Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) | Seattle – King Street Station (201 S Jackson St, Seattle) | Excellent connectivity. The Link Light Rail offers direct service from the airport terminal to International District/Chinatown Station, which is only a short walk (5-10 minutes) from King Street Station. Taxis, rideshares, and airport shuttles are also readily available. |
| Spokane International Airport (GEG) | Spokane Intermodal Center (221 W 1st Ave, Spokane) | Located approximately 7-8 miles west of downtown Spokane. Taxis and rideshare services are the most practical options for reaching the Spokane Intermodal Center. Public transit (Spokane Transit Authority) is available but may involve transfers. |
| Bellingham International Airport (BLI) | Bellingham Station (1100 Railroad Ave, Bellingham) | A smaller airport roughly 5 miles northwest of downtown Bellingham. Taxis and rideshare services are available. Some local bus routes might connect, but directness can vary. |
| Paine Field (PAE) / Snohomish County Airport | Everett Station (3201 Smith Ave, Everett) | A regional airport offering commercial flights, located about 3 miles southwest of Everett Station. Taxis and rideshare are the primary modes of transport between the two. |
Why Choose Train Travel in Washington?
Opting for the train over a car or plane for your Washington travel offers a host of benefits:
- Spectacular Scenery: Unlike driving, train travel allows you to truly relax and soak in the ever-changing landscapes, from rugged coastlines to dense forests and rolling hills.
- Comfort and Space: Enjoy more legroom, the ability to walk around, and often, an observation car or lounge car for a different perspective.
- Avoid Traffic Headaches: Skip the notorious Seattle traffic and enjoy a stress-free journey.
- Eco-Friendly: Train travel typically has a lower carbon footprint per passenger mile compared to flying or driving.
- Relaxation: Read a book, catch up on work (Wi-Fi on Cascades), or simply watch the world go by. It’s a journey, not just a means to an end.
Tips for Your Washington Amtrak Journey
To make the most of your train adventure:
- Book in Advance: Especially for popular routes like the Cascades or during peak season, tickets can sell out. Booking early often gets you better fares.
- Consider Business Class: For a modest upgrade, Business Class on the Cascades offers more spacious seating, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, and sometimes priority boarding.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: While most routes have a cafe or bistro car, having your own snacks and drinks (alcohol is permitted if purchased off-train and consumed responsibly, not in public cars on Cascades) can enhance your trip.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself ample time to find your gate, especially at larger stations like King Street in Seattle.
- Enjoy the Dome Car (Empire Builder): If you’re on the Empire Builder, spend time in the Sightseer Lounge/Diner car for panoramic views.
- Check Baggage Policies: Amtrak has generous baggage allowances, but it’s good to be aware of any restrictions, especially if you have large items.
- Border Crossing (to Vancouver, BC): If traveling to Canada, ensure you have your passport and are aware of customs procedures. Passengers undergo U.S. customs pre-clearance in Vancouver, BC.
Washington’s Amtrak routes offer a fantastic way to experience the beauty and diversity of the state. Whether it’s a quick hop along the Puget Sound or a grand cross-state expedition, let the rhythmic clickety-clack of the train carry you on your next memorable journey. Happy travels!
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