The San Joaquins is a passenger train service operated by Amtrak in California’s San Joaquin Valley. It offers daily round trips between Bakersfield and Stockton, with onward service to Sacramento and Oakland. The service is unique due to its extensive network of Amtrak Thruway bus routes, which are used by over 55% of passengers. These bus routes connect to various destinations in Southern California, Northern California, the Central Coast, the North Coast, the High Desert, and even Yosemite Valley. The San Joaquins is Amtrak’s seventh-busiest service nationally and third-busiest in California. It carried over 847,000 passengers in fiscal year 2023, a significant increase from the previous year. The service is managed by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA) and operated by Amtrak, with rolling stock maintenance handled by Transit Services America. The California Department of Transportation provides funding and owns the rolling stock.
Schedule Highlights
Here are the key schedule highlights for the Amtrak San Joaquins Train:
| Direction | Departure Times | Key Stops | Arrival Times |
| Northbound | Early Morning, Midday, Evening | Bakersfield, Fresno, Stockton, Sacramento | Late Morning, Afternoon, Night |
| Southbound | Early Morning, Midday, Evening | Sacramento, Stockton, Fresno, Bakersfield | Late Morning, Afternoon, Night |
Northbound Schedule
- Early Morning Departure: Ideal for travelers looking to reach their destination by late morning.
- Midday Departure: Perfect for those who prefer to travel during the day.
- Evening Departure: Suitable for evening travelers, arriving at their destination at night.
Southbound Schedule
- Early Morning Departure: Great for early risers who want to start their day in Southern California.
- Midday Departure: Convenient for daytime travel.
- Evening Departure: Best for those who prefer to travel in the evening and arrive at night.
Additional Notes
- Frequency: The San Joaquins Train runs multiple times daily in both directions.
- Connections: Easy Thruway bus connections are available at Bakersfield for Southern California destinations.
- Travel Time: The journey between the San Francisco Bay Area/Sacramento and Bakersfield takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes.
This schedule ensures flexibility for various travel preferences, whether you’re commuting for work or exploring California’s scenic routes.
Route Overview
The Amtrak San Joaquins train runs between the San Francisco Bay Area (or Sacramento) and Bakersfield several times daily. The route covers about 315 miles and takes about 6 hours and 15 minutes to complete. The train passes through California’s Central Valley, known for its agricultural landscape, and connects to destinations in Southern California via Amtrak Thruway buses.
San Joaquins Train Route Map
Major Stops and Stations
Popular Stops
- Sacramento
- Lodi
- Oakland
- Fresno
- Bakersfield
Train Stations Served by the San Joaquins
- Sacramento, CA – Sacramento Valley Station (SAC)
- Lodi, CA (LOD)
- Stockton, CA – Robert J. Cabral Station (SKT)
- Oakland, CA – Jack London Square Station (OKJ)
- Emeryville, CA (EMY)
- Richmond, CA (RIC)
- Martinez, CA (MTZ)
- Antioch-Pittsburg, CA (ACA)
- Stockton, CA – San Joaquin Street Station (SKN)
- Modesto, CA (MOD)
- Turlock-Denair, CA (TRK)
- Merced, CA (MCD)
- Madera, CA (MDR)
- Fresno, CA (FNO)
- Hanford, CA (HNF)
- Corcoran, CA (COC)
- Wasco, CA (WAC)
- Bakersfield, CA (BFD)
Detailed Station Information
Here’s a detailed look at the major stops and stations along the Amtrak San Joaquins route:
| Station | Location | Highlights |
| Emeryville | 5885 Horton Street, Emeryville, CA 94608-2037 | Starting point with connections to San Francisco. Nearby attractions include the Public Market and Bay Street shopping center. |
| Richmond | 1700 Nevin Avenue, Richmond, CA 94801 | Direct connection to BART. Local points of interest include the Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park. |
| Oakland Jack London Square | 245 Second Street, Oakland, CA 94607 | Historical significance with dining and entertainment options at Jack London Square. |
| Martinez | 601 Marina Vista Avenue, Martinez, CA 94553-1132 | Known for its historic downtown and waterfront. Visit the John Muir National Historic Site. |
| Antioch-Pittsburg | 100 I Street, Antioch, CA 94509-1122 | Gateway to the Delta region, offering outdoor activities like boating and fishing. |
| Stockton | 735 S San Joaquin Street, Stockton, CA 95203 | Features the Haggin Museum and a beautiful waterfront. Stockton Arena hosts various events. |
| Modesto | 1700 Held Drive, Modesto, CA 95355 | Surrounded by farmland and known for its vibrant arts scene. Visit the Gallo Center for the Arts. |
| Merced | 324 W 24th Street, Merced, CA 95340 | Close to Yosemite National Park. The Merced Multicultural Arts Center is a local highlight. |
| Fresno | 2650 Tulare Street, Fresno, CA 93721 | Home to the Forestiere Underground Gardens and a bustling downtown. Don’t miss the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. |
| Hanford | 200 Santa Fe Avenue, Hanford, CA 93230 | Known for its historic charm and the Hanford Carnegie Museum. |
| Corcoran | 1099 Otis Avenue, Corcoran, CA 93212 | A small town with a rich agricultural heritage. |
| Wasco | 700 G Street, Wasco, CA 93280 | Famous for its rose fields1. |
| Bakersfield | 601 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301 | Final stop with connections to Southern California. Known for its country music heritage and the Kern River Canyon. |
Top Amtrak San Joaquins Routes
- Bakersfield to Fresno
- Bakersfield to Stockton
- Fresno to Bakersfield
- Fresno to Hanford
- Fresno to Modesto
- Fresno to Oakland
- Fresno to Stockton
- Hanford to Fresno
- Martinez to Fresno
- Merced to Fresno
- Modesto to Bakersfield
- Oakland to Fresno
- Oakland to Modesto
- Oakland to Stockton
- Stockton to Fresno
Ticketing Information
Ticketing options and purchase methods for the Amtrak San Joaquins train are detailed below:
Types of Tickets
- One-Way Tickets: Ideal for single trips between two stations.
- Round Trip Tickets: Convenient for travelers planning to return to their starting point.
- Multi-Ride Tickets: Suitable for frequent travelers, offering multiple rides within a specified period.
- Discounted Tickets: Available for various passenger types, including:
- Seniors (62+): 15% discount.
- Children (2-12): 50% discount when accompanied by an adult1.
- Students: Special discounts available.
- Military Personnel and Veterans: Discounts for active duty military, veterans, and their families.
- Passengers with Disabilities: Discounts and additional assistance are available.
How to Purchase Tickets
- Online: Tickets can be purchased directly from the Amtrak San Joaquins website.
- Mobile App: Download the Amtrak app to book and manage your tickets on the go.
- Station Agents: Available at staffed stations to assist with ticket purchases1.
- Quik-Trak Machines: Self-service kiosks located at all stations, accepting debit and credit cards.
- Phone: Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (872-7245) to book tickets over the phone.
Onboard Experience
Seating and Comfort
- Spacious Seating: Amtrak San Joaquins coach cars offer spacious seating with ample legroom. There are no middle seats, ensuring a more comfortable ride.
- Social Seating Areas: Tables are available on both train levels, perfect for groups or those who prefer a workspace.
- Amenities: Seats come with footrests, tray tables, and convenient storage areas for carry-on luggage either above the seats or at the end of each car.
WiFi and Power Outlets
- Free WiFi: Complimentary WiFi is available on all San Joaquins trains, allowing passengers to stay connected, browse the web, and access the onboard media portal.
- Power Outlets: Each seat is equipped with electrical outlets, including USB connections, so you can keep your devices charged throughout the journey.
Dining Options (Café Car, Snack Bar)
- Café Car: The Café Car offers a variety of food and beverages, including premium sandwiches, salads, healthy snacks, and breakfast options. Beverages include both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options.
- Menu Highlights: Angus beef cheeseburgers, turkey cheddar sub sandwiches, vegan blue corn tamales, and a selection of snacks like Doritos and M&M ’s4.
- Payment: The Café Car accepts all major credit cards and cash.
- Note: Café Car service is not available on trains 710/719, but complimentary snacks and water are provided.
Accessibility Features
- Wheelchair Accessibility: All San Joaquins trains are ADA accessible, with large restrooms that are wheelchair accessible and spaces to park wheelchairs on the lower level.
- Onboard Wheelchair Lifts: Wheelchair lifts are available on every train to assist passengers with reduced mobility.
- Service Animals: Trained service animals are welcome in all customer areas of the stations, trains, and Amtrak Thruway motorcoaches.
- Additional Features: Wider aisles, sensor-activated automatic doors, and seamless end-to-end wheelchair access on all cars.
Travel Tips
Best Times to Travel
- Weekdays: Traveling on weekdays, especially midweek, can be less crowded and more relaxing.
- Off-Peak Hours: Early morning or late evening trains tend to be less busy, offering a quieter journey.
- Shoulder Seasons: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to travel on the San Joaquins.
- Peak Seasons: Summer (June-August) and winter (December-February) can be busier, but Amtrak often increases service to accommodate demand.
Packing Essentials for a Comfortable Journey
- Comfortable Clothing: Pack loose-fitting, breathable clothing suitable for the weather conditions.
- Essential Items: Don’t forget to bring your identification, travel documents, medications, and any necessary electronics.
- Entertainment: Pack books, magazines, games, or a laptop to keep yourself entertained during the journey.
- Snacks and Drinks: While the café car offers food and beverages, it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Safety and Security Tips
- Stay Aware: Be mindful of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
- Follow Instructions: Pay attention to announcements and follow the instructions of Amtrak staff.
- Report Issues: If you encounter any problems or feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to report it to Amtrak personnel.
How to Make the Most of Your Trip
- Scenic Spots: Keep an eye out for beautiful landscapes and landmarks along the route. Consider taking photos or videos to capture the memories.
- Photography Tips: Experiment with different angles and lighting to get the best shots. Use a tripod if you have one to capture clear images.
- Local Attractions: Research popular attractions near your destination and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Relax and Enjoy: Take some time to relax and enjoy the journey. Sit back, admire the scenery, and soak up the experience.
Connecting Services
Thruway Bus Connections to Southern California Destinations
The San Joaquins train service offers convenient connections to Amtrak Thruway bus routes, providing access to numerous destinations in Southern California. These connections include:
- Los Angeles Union Station
- Anaheim
- San Diego
- Santa Barbara
- Bakersfield
Connections to Other Amtrak Routes
- Pacific Surfliner: Passengers can connect to the Pacific Surfliner in Los Angeles Union Station, providing access to coastal destinations such as San Diego, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.
- Long-Distance Trains: Amtrak’s long-distance trains, including the Coast Starlight and the Southwest Chief, also connect to Los Angeles Union Station, offering nationwide travel options.
Local Transit Options at Major Stops
- Bakersfield: The Bakersfield Amtrak station is served by local bus routes, providing transportation to various points within the city.
- Fresno: Fresno Amtrak station has connections to the Fresno Metropolitan Transportation Authority (FRESNO Metro), offering bus and rail services throughout the city and surrounding areas.
- Stockton: The Stockton Amtrak station is connected to the San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD), providing bus and rail services in Stockton and neighboring communities.
- Sacramento: The Sacramento Amtrak station is served by the Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT), offering a comprehensive network of bus and light rail services.
- Oakland: The Oakland Amtrak station is connected to the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, providing convenient access to San Francisco, San Jose, and other Bay Area cities.
It’s recommended to check local transit schedules and fare information in advance to plan your connections effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Trip Planning
The Amtrak San Joaquins schedule can be found on the San Joaquins Timetable page.
The San Joaquins serves 18 train stations, including Oakland, Richmond, Sacramento, Stockton, Modesto, Merced, Fresno, Hanford, and Bakersfield. Additionally, there is an extensive Thruway Bus network serving destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Yosemite, Napa, Las Vegas, Arcata, Chico, and San Luis Obispo.
Yes, Amtrak San Joaquins connects directly to BART at the Richmond (RIC) Station.
The trip between Stockton and Oakland offers spectacular views of the Delta and Bay. The segment between Lodi and Sacramento runs through beautiful vineyards, and the stretch between Merced and Fresno features views of the Sierras and San Joaquin farmland.
Purchasing a Ticket
Tickets can be purchased online, via the Amtrak app, at station agents, Quik-Trak machines, or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL (872-7245).
Yes, discounts are available for seniors, children, students, military personnel, and passengers with disabilities. Group discounts are also available for groups of 15 or more.
Boarding
It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding and any necessary assistance.
Yes, each San Joaquins train has bike storage. Look for a conductor on the platform to help loading your bike into the secured storage area.
Onboard Operations
Yes, complimentary WiFi is available on all San Joaquins trains.
The Café Car offers a variety of food and beverages, including premium sandwiches, salads, snacks, and both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
About Amtrak San Joaquins
Yes, the San Joaquins trains operate on weekends.
Yes, most trains and buses offer full accessibility for disabled passengers and are equipped with wheelchair lifts.
Resources
- Official Website: https://amtraksanjoaquins.com/
- Amtrak Website: https://www.amtrak.com/home
- San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority (SJJPA): https://sjjpa.com/
- California Department of Transportation (Caltrans):
https://dot.ca.gov/ - Transit Services America: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TransitAmerica_Services