Discover the most scenic and convenient train routes departing from Portland Union Station
Key Takeaways
- Portland Union Station connects to 12 major Amtrak routes covering the Pacific Northwest, California, and cross-country destinations
- The Amtrak Cascades offers the most frequent service with 4-5 daily departures to Seattle and Eugene
- Coast Starlight is ranked among America’s most scenic train rides, running from Seattle to Los Angeles
- Average ticket prices range from $28 for short regional trips to $200+ for long-distance routes
- Book 2-3 months in advance for the best fares, especially during summer travel season
- All routes offer free Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and café cars
Portland Union Station sits in the heart of Oregon’s largest city, serving as a gateway to some of the most breathtaking train journeys in North America. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway to Seattle or a cross-country adventure to Chicago, Portland’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for rail travel.
I’ve spent years exploring Amtrak routes throughout the Pacific Northwest, and Portland consistently ranks as one of my favorite departure cities. The station itself is a beautiful historic landmark, and the routes radiating from it showcase everything from coastal mountains to high desert landscapes.
Why Choose Amtrak from Portland?
Before we dive into specific routes, let’s talk about why train travel from Portland makes so much sense:
No airport hassles: Arrive just 30 minutes before departure. No TSA lines, no baggage fees for your first two bags, and you can bring full-size liquids.
Downtown to downtown: Portland Union Station sits in the Pearl District, walking distance from hotels and restaurants. Most Amtrak stations drop you right in city centers.
Scenic views: Highways often bypass the best scenery. Trains take you along rivers, through mountain passes, and past views you simply can’t see from the road.
Work or relax: With free Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, and actual legroom, you can be productive or simply enjoy the ride.
1. Portland to Seattle (Amtrak Cascades)
Distance: 187 miles | Travel Time: 3.5-4 hours | Frequency: 4-5 trains daily
![Amtrak Cascades train traveling through Pacific Northwest forests]
The Amtrak Cascades route between Portland and Seattle is the busiest and most popular service in the Pacific Northwest. This route hugs the I-5 corridor but offers views you’d miss while driving – including stunning glimpses of Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and the Columbia River.
What Makes This Route Special
The Cascades service uses modern, European-style Talgo trains with excellent ride quality. Large windows, comfortable seating, and a café car serving local Northwest fare make this journey enjoyable even for business travelers who make the trip regularly.
You’ll pass through:
- The Columbia River Gorge
- Historic Kelso and Centralia
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Tacoma’s waterfront
- Seattle’s industrial SoDo district before arriving at King Street Station
Schedule & Pricing
| Departure Time | Arrival Time | Typical Fare |
| 7:30 AM | 11:10 AM | $28-$45 |
| 11:00 AM | 2:45 PM | $28-$45 |
| 2:30 PM | 6:15 PM | $35-$52 |
| 6:35 PM | 10:15 PM | $35-$52 |
Prices vary by season and booking time. Business class adds $15-25 for wider seats and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages.
Pro tip: Book the morning departure for the best Mount St. Helens views on clear days. Sit on the right side (east-facing) going north.
Watch: Amtrak Cascades Portland to Seattle Journey
2. Portland to Eugene/Springfield (Amtrak Cascades)
Distance: 123 miles | Travel Time: 2.5-3 hours | Frequency: 2-3 trains daily
This southbound Cascades route takes you through Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, famous for its vineyards, hop farms, and agricultural beauty. Eugene makes a perfect base for exploring the University of Oregon, hiking in the nearby Cascade foothills, or visiting the Oregon coast.
Route Highlights
The train stops in:
- Oregon City (industrial heritage)
- Salem (state capital)
- Albany (historic downtown)
- Eugene/Springfield
Windows frame pastoral farmland, the distant Cascade peaks, and the winding Willamette River. During spring, cherry and apple orchards create stunning pink and white landscapes.
Current Fares & Schedule
| Departure | Arrival | Price Range |
| 8:25 AM | 10:55 AM | $23-$38 |
| 5:50 PM | 8:25 PM | $23-$38 |
Travel hack: Combine this with a rental car in Eugene to explore the Oregon coast (just 60 miles west) or the Cascade lakes region to the east.
3. Coast Starlight: Portland to Los Angeles
Distance: 965 miles | Travel Time: 30-32 hours | Frequency: 1 train daily
![Coast Starlight train along California coastline]
Here’s where Amtrak travel becomes truly memorable. The Coast Starlight consistently ranks among the world’s most scenic train routes, and boarding in Portland gives you the full experience from Pacific Northwest forests to Southern California beaches.
The Journey South
Departing Portland around 2:30 PM daily, you’ll experience:
Day 1 Afternoon/Evening:
- Willamette Valley vineyards
- Eugene and the Cascade foothills
- Klamath Falls and Upper Klamath Lake
- Sunset over Mount Shasta (California) – absolutely spectacular
Day 2 Morning/Afternoon:
- Sacramento River Canyon
- San Francisco Bay Area
- California coastline from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara
- Los Angeles arrival around 9 PM
Sleeping Accommodations
For overnight journeys, I strongly recommend booking a sleeper:
| Accommodation Type | Features | Price (Portland to LA) |
| Coach Seat | Reclining seat, leg rest, overhead storage | $97-$180 |
| Roomette | Two seats converting to beds, private space | $350-$550 |
| Bedroom | Larger room with sofa, armchair, private bathroom | $650-$950 |
| Family Bedroom | Two adult beds, two child beds | $650-$900 |
Sleeper fares include meals in the dining car, priority boarding, and access to station lounges.
Dining Experience
The Coast Starlight features traditional dining car service for sleeper passengers, with contemporary American cuisine prepared onboard. Coach passengers can purchase meals or visit the café car.
Best viewing tip: The most scenic segments are Mount Shasta (late afternoon Day 1) and the coastline from San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara (afternoon Day 2). Book a roomette on the left side (west) for California coast views.
Watch: Coast Starlight Complete Journey
4. Empire Builder: Portland to Chicago
Distance: 2,257 miles | Travel Time: 46 hours | Frequency: 1 train daily
The Empire Builder represents classic American long-distance rail travel. This legendary route follows Lewis and Clark’s path across the northern United States, traversing eight states from Portland to Chicago.
The Cross-Country Experience
Departing Portland around 4:45 PM, your journey includes:
Day 1 Evening: Columbia River Gorge at sunset – one of the most photographed segments of any Amtrak route
Day 2: Montana’s Glacier National Park region, crossing the Continental Divide at Marias Pass, vast wheat fields of the Northern Plains
Day 3 Morning: Arrival in Chicago’s historic Union Station
Major Stops
- Portland, OR
- Spokane, WA (late night Day 1)
- Whitefish, MT (gateway to Glacier National Park)
- Havre, MT
- Minot, ND
- St. Paul, MN
- Milwaukee, WI
- Chicago, IL
Pricing Overview
| Travel Class | Portland to Chicago |
| Coach | $180-$350 |
| Roomette | $650-$1,100 |
| Bedroom | $1,200-$1,900 |
Important note: The Empire Builder splits in Spokane. Make sure you’re in the Portland section, not the Seattle section. The train cars reconnect in Spokane heading east and split there heading west.
5. Portland to Vancouver, BC (Amtrak Cascades)
Distance: 309 miles | Travel Time: 7.5-8 hours | Frequency: 2 trains daily
![Train approaching Vancouver, BC waterfront]
Crossing into Canada by train offers a relaxed alternative to airport security and border crossing traffic. The Cascades route to Vancouver extends the Seattle journey north, offering additional scenic beauty and international adventure.
Border Crossing Process
Here’s what makes this different from other routes:
- US Customs inspection happens in Vancouver before departure southbound
- Canadian Border Services screens passengers at Pacific Central Station in Vancouver
- Bring your passport (required for international travel)
- Allow extra time for border formalities (typically 30-45 minutes)
Journey Highlights
Beyond the Portland-Seattle scenery mentioned earlier, you’ll experience:
- Tacoma’s Commencement Bay
- Puget Sound waterfront views
- Mount Vernon agricultural region
- Fraser River Valley in British Columbia
- Arrival at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station (near downtown)
Schedule & Costs
| Route | Departure | Arrival | Fare Range |
| PDX to Vancouver | 8:30 AM | 4:15 PM | $52-$88 |
| PDX to Vancouver | 3:00 PM | 10:45 PM | $52-$88 |
Insider tip: The afternoon departure means you’ll see the best scenery in daylight. Book early for cheaper fares – this route fills up during summer months.
6. Coast Starlight: Portland to San Francisco Bay Area
Distance: 635 miles | Travel Time: 17-18 hours | Frequency: 1 train daily
You don’t have to ride all the way to Los Angeles to experience the Coast Starlight’s magic. The overnight journey to the San Francisco Bay Area hits most of the scenic highlights at a more manageable duration.
Arrival Options in Bay Area
The train serves multiple Bay Area stations:
- Emeryville (main Bay Area stop, across the bay from SF)
- Oakland-Jack London Square
- San Jose (Silicon Valley)
Free Amtrak Thruway buses connect Emeryville to downtown San Francisco (30-40 minutes), stopping at the Ferry Building and Financial District.
What You’ll See
- Afternoon/Evening: Willamette Valley, Cascade foothills, sunset over Klamath Lake
- Night: Klamath Falls, California border crossing (around 10 PM)
- Early Morning: Mount Shasta awakening with dawn light
- Morning: Sacramento River Canyon, California capital region
- Midday: Bay Area arrival
Overnight Travel Tips
| Accommodation | Best For | Price Point |
| Coach | Budget travelers, light sleepers, short overnight trips | $82-$145 |
| Roomette | Solo travelers or couples wanting privacy | $280-$480 |
| Bedroom | Those wanting private bathroom and more space | $480-$720 |
Sleep strategy for coach: Bring a travel pillow, eye mask, and light blanket. The train dims lights around 10 PM, and the ride is surprisingly smooth through most of the night.
7. Portland to Sacramento (Coast Starlight)
Distance: 577 miles | Travel Time: 14-15 hours | Frequency: 1 train daily
Sacramento, California’s capital, makes an excellent mid-journey destination on the Coast Starlight. You’ll experience the scenic highlights without committing to the full journey south.
Why Sacramento?
This route offers:
- Overnight travel without needing two full days
- Access to California’s Gold Country and wine regions
- Connection point for Capitol Corridor trains to Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose
- Lower fares than continuing to Southern California
Typical Fares
- Coach: $74-$130
- Roomette: $250-$420
- Bedroom: $450-$650
The train arrives in Sacramento around 6:35 AM, giving you a full day to explore California’s capital or make connections.
8. Portland to Klamath Falls (Coast Starlight)
Distance: 282 miles | Travel Time: 8-9 hours | Frequency: 1 train daily
This southern Oregon journey takes you into high desert country and the gateway to Crater Lake National Park. Klamath Falls sits in Oregon’s sunny southeast, offering a completely different climate and landscape from Portland.
Route Character
The journey transitions from:
- Urban Portland to pastoral Willamette Valley
- Valley floor to Cascade foothills
- Evergreen forests to high desert sagebrush
- Eugene’s college town to Chemult’s remote wilderness
- Finally, Klamath Falls’ lake country
Travel Information
Travel Information
| Detail | Information |
| Departure | ~2:30 PM daily |
| Arrival | ~10:45 PM |
| Fare | $46-$78 (coach) |
Adventure connection: Klamath Falls sits 60 miles from Crater Lake National Park. Rent a car or arrange shuttle service to explore one of America’s most stunning natural wonders.
9. Portland to Tacoma (Amtrak Cascades)
Distance: 143 miles | Travel Time: 2.5-3 hours | Frequency: 4-5 trains daily
![Tacoma waterfront with train approaching]
Tacoma deserves more attention than it gets. This Puget Sound city offers museums, waterfront dining, and significantly lower hotel prices than Seattle while maintaining easy train access.
What Makes Tacoma Worth Visiting
- Museum District (Glass Museum, Washington State History Museum)
- Point Defiance Park and Zoo
- Waterfront development with restaurants
- Historic Stadium District architecture
- Gateway to Mount Rainier National Park (90 minutes by car)
Quick Schedule Reference
| PDX Departure | Tacoma Arrival | Typical Fare |
| 7:30 AM | 10:00 AM | $25-$40 |
| 11:00 AM | 1:30 PM | $25-$40 |
| 2:30 PM | 5:00 PM | $32-$48 |
| 6:35 PM | 9:05 PM | $32-$48 |
Money-saving tip: Book Tacoma instead of Seattle and save $10-15 per ticket. The Sounder commuter train connects Tacoma to Seattle for $5.75 if you want to continue north.
10. Portland to Olympia-Lacey (Amtrak Cascades
Distance: 113 miles | Travel Time: 2 hours | Frequency: 4-5 trains daily
Washington’s capital city offers a quieter alternative to Seattle, with Puget Sound access, state government history, and the funky character of a college town (Evergreen State College).
Olympia Attractions
- Washington State Capitol Campus (free tours)
- Farmers markets (one of the Pacific Northwest’s best)
- Puget Sound waterfront
- Historic downtown walkability
- Craft beer scene
Fares: $23-$38 one way
This makes an easy day trip from Portland, with morning departure and evening return options.
11. Portland to Bellingham (Amtrak Cascades)
Distance: 278 miles | Travel Time: 6-6.5 hours | Frequency: 2 trains daily
Bellingham sits in Washington’s northwest corner, offering access to the San Juan Islands, North Cascades, and Canadian border. This charming city combines college town energy (Western Washington University) with outdoor adventure culture.
Journey Characteristics
You’ll pass through:
- Everything on the Portland-Seattle route
- Seattle’s waterfront and Boeing facilities
- Everett’s Puget Sound marinas
- Mount Vernon’s tulip fields (spectacular in spring)
- Bellingham’s bay arrival
Pricing & Connections
| Service | Cost Range |
| Portland to Bellingham | $48-$75 |
| Bellingham to Vancouver, BC | $12-$20 (separate ticket) |
Strategic stop: Bellingham makes an excellent overnight stop when traveling to Vancouver. The city offers lower hotel rates than Vancouver, and the final leg north takes just 1.5 hours.
12. Portland to Centralia (Amtrak Cascades)
Distance: 83 miles | Travel Time: 1.5 hours | Frequency: 4-5 trains daily
Centralia might seem like an unusual destination, but this historic Washington town offers antique shopping, outlet malls, and access to Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens.
Why Consider Centralia
- Budget-friendly hotel base for Mount Rainier trips
- Historic downtown with well-preserved architecture
- Antique stores and outlets (Centralia Outlets)
- Riverside parks
- Cheapest Amtrak destination from Portland
Typical fare: $19-$32 one way
This route works well for travelers who want to rent a car in Washington state and explore Mount Rainier or the coast while avoiding Seattle traffic and rental prices.
Planning Your Amtrak Journey: Essential Tips
When to Book
Best booking window: 2-3 months in advance for:
- Summer travel (June-August)
- Holiday weekends
- Sleeper accommodations on any long-distance route
Acceptable booking window: 2-4 weeks in advance for:
- Shoulder season travel (April-May, September-October)
- Coach seats on Cascades routes
- Midweek travel
Last-minute options: Same-week booking works for:
- Winter travel (November-March, excluding holidays)
- Tuesday-Wednesday departures
- Coach seats only
Money-Saving Strategies
- Book early: Amtrak uses yield management. Prices increase as seats fill.
- Travel midweek: Tuesday and Wednesday departures typically cost 15-20% less than Friday-Sunday.
- Consider multi-ride passes: Amtrak’s USA Rail Pass allows 10 segments over 30 days ($499), potentially saving hundreds on multi-destination trips.
- Senior discount: 65+ saves 10% on most routes (not available on all tickets during peak periods).
- AAA/student discounts: 10% off with valid membership or ID.
- Sign up for Amtrak Guest Rewards: Points accumulate toward free travel.
What to Pack
For day trips (under 5 hours):
- Light jacket (trains can be cool)
- Snacks and refillable water bottle
- Phone charger
- Book or entertainment
- Camera for scenery
For overnight trips:
- Everything above, plus:
- Toiletries (small bag)
- Change of clothes
- Sleeping essentials (pillow, blanket, eye mask) if traveling coach
- Shower shoes if using shared facilities
- Prescription medications in carry-on
What NOT to pack:
- Weapons of any kind
- Excessive luggage (two free checked bags, two carry-ons max)
- Perishable foods
- Illegal substances (remember: crossing state lines)
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive at Portland Union Station?
Arrive 30 minutes before departure for coach travel, 45 minutes if checking bags. Unlike airports, there’s no security screening, just ticket verification and boarding.
Can I bring my bike on Amtrak?
Yes. Amtrak Cascades trains have dedicated bike spaces (reservation required, $5 fee). Long-distance trains require bikes to be boxed and checked as luggage (limited availability).
Is there Wi-Fi on all trains?
Free Wi-Fi is available on all Amtrak Cascades and most long-distance trains. Connection quality varies, especially in remote areas. Download entertainment before boarding.
Can I get off the train and reboard later?
No. Amtrak tickets are for continuous travel. If you want to stop somewhere, book separate tickets for each segment.
What happens if my train is delayed?
Amtrak delays happen, especially on long-distance routes sharing tracks with freight trains. Significant delays may qualify for compensation through Amtrak’s customer service. The Cascades routes are generally punctual (85-90% on-time).
Are meals included in my ticket?
Sleeper accommodations include all dining car meals. Coach passengers purchase food separately in the café car or dining car. Prices are reasonable: $8-15 for entrees.
Can I travel with my pet?
Small dogs and cats (under 20 lbs) are allowed in carriers on Cascades routes and some long-distance trains ($29 fee). Service animals travel free. Restrictions apply on specific routes.
Do trains have power outlets?
Yes. All Amtrak seats have power outlets (120V standard US plugs) and USB charging ports. Bring your charging cables.
What’s the baggage allowance?
- 2 personal items (purses, laptops, small backpacks)
- 2 carry-on bags (50 lbs max each)
- 2 free checked bags on long-distance routes (50 lbs max each)
- Additional bags $20 each
Choosing Your Perfect Route
With 12 excellent options departing Portland, here’s how to match routes to your travel style:
For scenic beauty: Coast Starlight to anywhere south, Empire Builder through Columbia River Gorge
For convenience: Amtrak Cascades to Seattle, Eugene, or Tacoma (frequent departures, short duration)
For adventure: Empire Builder to Chicago, Coast Starlight to Los Angeles
For international travel: Cascades to Vancouver, BC
For budget travel: Short Cascades routes (Centralia, Olympia, Salem) under $35
For romance: Overnight sleeper to San Francisco on the Coast Starlight
For families: Seattle day trip (short, frequent, easy schedule), or roomette to California
Making the Most of Portland Union Station
Before you board, explore Portland’s beautiful 1896 Romanesque station building. The waiting area features:
- Historic benches and original architecture
- Café and newsstand
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restrooms
- Ticket office (open daily)
- Baggage assistance
- Red Cap service for passengers needing mobility help
Station location: 800 NW 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97209
Parking: Limited on-site parking. Better options include nearby parking garages or taking the MAX light rail to the station (Amtrak connects directly to Portland’s excellent public transportation).
Final Thoughts: Why Train Travel from Portland Works
After exploring these 12 routes multiple times, I keep coming back to train travel from Portland for simple reasons: it’s civilized, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable. You’re not just getting from Point A to Point B – you’re experiencing the journey itself.
The Pacific Northwest’s geography makes train travel particularly rewarding. Every route from Portland showcases different landscapes: volcanic peaks, river gorges, coastal mountains, high desert, agricultural valleys. You’ll see bald eagles, deer, sometimes even whales from the Coast Starlight’s California segment.
Beyond scenery, there’s something deeply satisfying about sustainable travel. Trains produce 83% fewer emissions than flying for the same distance. You can read, work, socialize in the café car, or simply watch America pass by your window.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape to Seattle or a bucket-list journey to Chicago, Portland Union Station offers routes for every traveler. Book your tickets, pack light, and discover why train travel is experiencing a renaissance among travelers who value the journey as much as the destination.
Ready to start planning? Visit Amtrak.com to check schedules and book your Portland departure. Safe travels!
Additional Resources
- Amtrak official website: www.amtrak.com
- Portland Union Station: (800) 872-7245
- Amtrak Guest Rewards: Join free for points and benefits
- Real-time train tracking: Amtrak mobile app (iOS/Android)
- Station services: Accessible facilities, bicycle parking, rental car counters nearby