Nestled in the heart of Northern California, Redding offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a surprising connection to the wider world via its Amtrak station. While not a bustling transportation hub, the Redding (RDD) station plays a vital role for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxed journey.
This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Amtrak in Redding, from what to expect at the station to distances to key destinations.
The Redding Amtrak Station (RDD): What to Expect
The Redding Amtrak station is less of a grand terminal and more of a charming, functional stop along one of America’s most iconic routes.
- Location: You’ll find the station conveniently located downtown at 1620 Yuba St, Redding, CA 96001, just a short walk from the Sacramento River and local amenities.
- Station Type: RDD is an unstaffed station. This is crucial to remember!
- There is no ticket agent on duty. You must purchase your tickets online, via the Amtrak app, or by phone before you arrive.
- There is no baggage check service. You’ll need to manage your own luggage, bringing only what you can carry onto the train.
- Amenities:
- Shelter: A modest, enclosed waiting area provides protection from the elements.
- Benches: Seating is available.
- Restrooms: Basic restrooms are typically available, but their condition can vary. It’s wise to be prepared.
- Platform: A low-level platform provides access to the trains.
- Parking: Limited, free parking is usually available directly at the station for passengers.
- Accessibility: The station and platform are generally ADA accessible.
Key Takeaway: Arrive with your tickets in hand, prepare to carry your own bags, and appreciate the rustic charm of a smaller train stop.
The Iconic Coast Starlight: Redding’s Amtrak Connection
Redding is exclusively served by one of Amtrak’s most famous and scenic routes: The Coast Starlight. This daily train journey stretches from Seattle, Washington, all the way down to Los Angeles, California, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, lush forests, and, of course, the stunning landscapes of Northern California.
- Northbound: The Coast Starlight travels north towards Klamath Falls (Oregon), Eugene, Portland, and ultimately Seattle.
- Southbound: The train heads south through Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area (Emeryville/Oakland), San Jose, Santa Barbara, and finally Los Angeles.
Traveling on the Coast Starlight is an experience in itself, with opportunities to enjoy the Sightseer Lounge, dining car, and comfortable seats or private rooms.
Getting To & From the Redding Amtrak Station
- Walking: The station’s downtown location makes it walkable to several hotels, restaurants, and the Sundial Bridge area.
- Taxis & Rideshares: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Redding and can easily pick up or drop off at the station.
- Local Bus (RABA): The Redding Area Bus Authority (RABA) provides local public transit, though direct routes to the Amtrak station might require a short walk or transfer. Check their current schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Distances to Key Cities from Redding (RDD)
While train travel isn’t purely about speed, understanding the approximate distances and travel times can help you plan your journey. Keep in mind that train times are generally longer than driving times due to stops and varying track speeds, but they offer a much more relaxed and scenic experience.
| Destination (Approximate Driving Distance from Redding) | Approximate Amtrak Travel Time from RDD (one-way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California Cities | ||
| Sacramento (~160 miles) | ~3 hours 30 minutes – 4 hours | The state capital, a major hub. |
| Emeryville/Oakland (~240 miles) | ~5 hours 30 minutes – 6 hours | Connects to San Francisco via Amtrak Thruway Bus. |
| San Jose (~270 miles) | ~6 hours 30 minutes – 7 hours | Heart of Silicon Valley. |
| Santa Barbara (~500 miles) | ~13 hours – 14 hours | Southern California coastal gem. |
| Los Angeles (Union Station) (~580 miles) | ~15 hours – 16 hours | The full Southern California experience. |
| Oregon Cities | ||
| Klamath Falls (~100 miles) | ~2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours | Gateway to Crater Lake National Park. |
| Portland (Union Station) (~380 miles) | ~8 hours 30 minutes – 9 hours | Vibrant Pacific Northwest city. |
| Washington State | ||
| Seattle (King Street Station) (~550 miles) | ~13 hours 30 minutes – 14 hours | The ultimate northern terminus. |
Note: All travel times are approximate and can vary based on track conditions, scheduled stops, and potential delays. Always check the latest schedule on Amtrak’s website.
Distances to Key Airports from Redding (RDD)
While Amtrak doesn’t directly serve airports, you can connect to major air hubs via ground transportation from the train stations in larger cities.
| Airport (Approximate Driving Distance from Redding) | Nearest Major Amtrak Station (Approx. driving distance from station to airport) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Redding Municipal Airport (RDD) (~8 miles) | N/A (Local airport) | Small regional airport with limited commercial flights. Best accessed by taxi/rideshare from Redding Amtrak. |
| Sacramento International Airport (SMF) (~170 miles) | Sacramento Valley Station (~10-15 miles) | From Sacramento Valley Station, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or the Yolobus Airport Express (Route 42A/B) directly to SMF. |
| Oakland International Airport (OAK) (~240 miles) | Emeryville Station ( | From Oakland Jack London Square, take a short taxi/rideshare or the BART shuttle from Lake Merritt station (easily accessible from the Amtrak station) to OAK. From Emeryville, a longer taxi/rideshare or BART connection is needed. |
| San Francisco International Airport (SFO) (~250 miles) | Emeryville Station (~25 miles) | From Emeryville, take an Amtrak Thruway Bus to San Francisco’s Salesforce Transit Center, then connect to BART for SFO. Or, a direct taxi/rideshare from Emeryville would be lengthy and costly. |
| Portland International Airport (PDX) (~380 miles) | Portland Union Station (~8-10 miles) | From Portland Union Station, you can take TriMet MAX Light Rail (Red Line) directly to PDX, or a taxi/rideshare. |
| Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) (~600 miles) | Los Angeles Union Station (~18 miles) | From LA Union Station, take the LAX FlyAway bus service which offers direct, frequent service to all LAX terminals. Taxis and rideshares are also available but can be subject to heavy traffic. |
Tips for Your Redding Amtrak Journey
- Book in Advance: Especially for popular routes or times, booking your tickets ahead ensures you get the seat class you want and often a better price.
- Arrive Early: While it’s an unstaffed station, arriving 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure gives you time to find parking, get settled, and be ready when the train arrives.
- Check Status: Always check the train’s status on the Amtrak app or website before heading to the station, as delays can occur.
- Boarding: Listen for announcements (usually from the conductor as the train arrives) regarding boarding procedures.
- Bring Essentials: Pack snacks, drinks, entertainment, and any personal items you might need, especially as there are no concession services at the station itself.
- Embrace the Journey: Train travel is about more than just getting from A to B; it’s about the experience, the views, and the opportunity to relax.
Amtrak’s Redding station offers a fantastic way to explore Northern California and beyond, providing a charming and scenic alternative to driving or flying. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider stepping aboard the Coast Starlight from Redding for an unforgettable adventure!
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