The Complete Transcontinental Railroad Guide
You’ve finally decided to take the long way across America. Maybe it’s the romance of the rails, the need to see the heartland without fighting traffic, or simply a logistical puzzle you want to solve. But when you start digging into booking a transcontinental railroad journey, the information feels scattered. Schedules are confusing. Routes overlap. And no one tells you what to pack for a three-day trip through deserts and mountains. I’ve ridden long enough to know that the gear you skip buying to save money is almost always the gear you regret not having when you need it most. Invest once, invest right. That same principle applies to planning a cross-country train trip. After helping dozens of clients coordinate motorcycle shipments alongside their own passenger rail bookings, I’ve learned exactly what works and what doesn’t. Let me save you the trial and error.
Key Takeaways
- The transcontinental railroad offers multiple routes, but Amtrak’s California Zephyr and Empire Builder are the most scenic and reliable for a complete coast-to-coast experience.
- Booking a roomette or bedroom sleeper is worth the extra cost for overnight segments—you get meals, a private space, and better sleep.
- Packing layers is essential because train temperatures vary wildly between cars and outdoor viewing platforms.
- Shipping your motorcycle separately through a specialist like us avoids the hassle of crating and customs paperwork while you enjoy the ride.
Understanding the Modern Transcontinental Railroad Routes
The term transcontinental railroad today means something different than it did in 1869. Back then, it was one line. Now, Amtrak runs several long-distance routes that, when combined, can take you from coast to coast. The two primary options are the California Zephyr (Chicago to Emeryville/San Francisco) and the Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland). You can connect them in Chicago, but most travelers pick one for the full experience.
The California Zephyr: The Scenic Standard
This is the route I recommend to anyone who wants to see the Rockies, the Sierra Nevada, and the Colorado River canyons. The Zephyr covers 2,438 miles in about 51 hours. Departing from Chicago’s Union Station, you’ll cross the Mississippi, then climb through the Rockies near Denver. The most dramatic section is the 6.2-mile Moffat Tunnel under the Continental Divide. After that, you drop into Glenwood Canyon and follow the Colorado River through Utah’s red rock country. The final stretch through the Sierra Nevada into the Bay Area is stunning.
The Empire Builder: Northern Exposure
If you prefer forests, plains, and the Pacific Northwest, the Empire Builder is your train. It runs 2,206 miles from Chicago to Seattle (or Portland) in roughly 46 hours. The route follows the old Great Northern Railway, skirting the northern edge of the country. Highlights include the Mississippi River crossing at La Crosse, the vast Montana plains, and the 7.8-mile Cascade Tunnel in Washington. You’ll also see Glacier National Park from the south side of the tracks—book a roomette on the left side of the train for the best views.
Booking Your Journey: Step-by-Step
Booking a transcontinental railroad trip isn’t as simple as buying a plane ticket. You need to decide on accommodations, meal plans, and connection times. Here’s the process I use with clients.
Step 1: Choose Your Route and Dates
Check Amtrak’s long-distance schedule. The California Zephyr and Empire Builder run daily, but departures can sell out weeks in advance, especially during summer and fall foliage season. Use Amtrak’s route map to see which stations align with your start and end points. If you’re starting from the West Coast, you can board in Emeryville (San Francisco), Sacramento, or Denver. From the East, Chicago is the main hub.
Step 2: Select Your Accommodation
You have three main options: Coach (reclining seats, shared bathrooms), Roomette (private room with two seats that convert to a bed, includes meals), or Bedroom (larger room with private bathroom and shower). For a trip longer than 12 hours, I strongly suggest a roomette or bedroom. Coach gets uncomfortable overnight, and you’ll be exhausted when you arrive. The roomette costs more, but it includes three meals per day in the dining car, access to the observation car, and a dedicated attendant.
Step 3: Book Your Tickets
Book directly on Amtrak’s website or through a travel agent who specializes in rail. When you search, select your route and dates, then choose your accommodation type. Amtrak often offers discounts for seniors (62+), veterans, and AAA members. You can also use Amtrak Guest Rewards points to upgrade or cover the fare. Book at least 30 days out for the best prices, especially on popular routes like the Zephyr.
What to Pack for a Transcontinental Railroad Trip
Packing for a train is different from packing for a flight. You have more space (no strict carry-on limits), but you’ll be moving through multiple climate zones. The key is layers and versatility.
Clothing Essentials
- Base layer: Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve shirt. It wicks moisture and doesn’t stink after three days.
- Mid layer: A fleece or light down jacket. Trains can be chilly in the morning and evening, especially in the mountains.
- Outer layer: A windproof and waterproof shell. The observation car has open-air platforms, and wind at 79 mph (the train’s top speed) feels cold even in summer.
- Comfortable pants: Jeans or hiking pants. Avoid shorts—train seats can get cold from the air conditioning.
- Closed-toe shoes: Sneakers or hiking boots. You’ll be walking through stations and potentially exploring stops like Denver or Salt Lake City.
Gear and Gadgets
- Noise-canceling headphones: The train is surprisingly loud—wheels on tracks, announcements, and conversations in the observation car.
- Power bank: Amtrak’s newer trains have outlets at every seat, but older cars may have limited ports. A 10,000mAh power bank keeps your phone charged for two days.
- Reusable water bottle: Fill it at station stops or from the café car. Staying hydrated helps with jet lag and altitude changes.
- Small backpack: For day trips at station stops. You don’t want to lug your main suitcase into the observation car.
Life Onboard: What to Expect Day by Day
A transcontinental railroad journey is a slow, deliberate experience. You’ll cover about 50 miles per hour on average, with stops every few hours. Here’s a typical day on the California Zephyr.
Morning: Breakfast in the Dining Car
If you booked a sleeper, your meals are included. Breakfast is served in the dining car between 6:30 AM and 9:00 AM. You’ll be seated with other passengers—it’s a great way to meet people. The menu includes eggs, pancakes, oatmeal, and fresh fruit. Coffee is unlimited. If you’re in coach, you can buy meals from the café car, but the selection is limited (microwaved sandwiches and snacks).
Midday: Observation Car and Scenic Stops
The observation car has floor-to-ceiling windows and swivel chairs. This is where you’ll spend most of your daylight hours. The train makes brief stops at stations like Denver, Colorado (20 minutes) and Glenwood Springs, Colorado (15 minutes). You can step off for fresh air and stretch your legs. The conductor will announce the stop duration—don’t wander too far.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Dinner is served from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the dining car. The menu changes daily but usually includes steak, salmon, pasta, or vegetarian options. After dinner, the observation car dims the lights, and you can watch the sunset over the plains or mountains. The train’s gentle rocking motion makes for excellent sleep.
Handling Logistics: Customs and Connections
If you’re crossing the U.S. border from Canada or starting your trip from a non-U.S. location, you’ll need to consider customs. The transcontinental railroad within the U.S. doesn’t require customs checks, but if you’re taking the Amtrak Cascades or Maple Leaf from Vancouver, B.C., you’ll clear U.S. customs at the border. For international travelers, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
For clients shipping motorcycles alongside their train journey, I recommend using a licensed customs broker if the bike is crossing an international border. The paperwork includes a CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary) and a Bill of Lading. Most transport companies handle this, but you’ll need to provide the bike’s title and proof of insurance. Plan for an extra 2-3 days at the destination for the bike to clear customs and be delivered.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a transcontinental railroad trip take?
A direct coast-to-coast trip on the California Zephyr takes about 51 hours from Chicago to Emeryville. If you’re starting from New York City, you’ll need to add a connection via the Lake Shore Limited (Chicago to New York, about 19 hours). Total travel time from New York to San Francisco is roughly 70 hours, including the layover in Chicago.
Can I bring my motorcycle on Amtrak?
No. Amtrak does not allow motorcycles as checked baggage or in passenger cars. However, you can ship your motorcycle through a specialized transport service that delivers it to your destination. Coordinate the delivery date to match your train arrival. This is much easier than crating the bike yourself and dealing with freight shipping.
What is the best time of year to ride the transcontinental railroad?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the best weather and scenery. Summer can be crowded and hot in the desert sections, while winter brings potential delays from snow in the Rockies. If you want to see fall colors, take the Empire Builder through Minnesota and Montana in late September.
Do I need a visa to travel on Amtrak as an international visitor?
Yes. All international visitors entering the U.S. by train must have a valid visa (unless eligible for the Visa Waiver Program under ESTA). You’ll clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the first U.S. stop. Carry your passport and any supporting documents (hotel reservations, return ticket) for the officer.
