The Pacific Northwest. Lush forests, sparkling coastlines, vibrant cities… and one of the most beloved train routes in North America. We’re talking about the Amtrak Cascades!
If you’re looking to travel between Vancouver, BC, through the heart of Washington State, and down to Oregon, skipping the highway hassle is a fantastic option. The Amtrak Cascades train offers a comfortable, scenic, and convenient way to experience this stunning corridor.
But where exactly does it go? How do you get tickets? How much does it cost? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your Amtrak Cascades adventure.
What is the Amtrak Cascades Train?
The Amtrak Cascades is a passenger rail service connecting 18 cities in British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon. Unlike some long-distance Amtrak routes, the Cascades uses sleek, European-style trains that are designed for the specific needs of this busy corridor. Think comfortable seating, power outlets, and large windows perfect for soaking in the views.
The Amtrak Cascades Route: Where Does it Go?
The Amtrak Cascades route stretches over 460 miles, running roughly parallel to the I-5 corridor but offering infinitely better scenery and relaxation.
Starting in the north at Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, the train heads south through major Washington cities like Seattle and Tacoma, crosses the Columbia River into Oregon, and continues down to Portland before its southern terminus in Eugene, Oregon.
It’s a journey that offers diverse landscapes, from urban centers to coastal views and evergreen forests.
Amtrak Cascades Stops & Stations
One of the biggest advantages of the Amtrak Cascades is the number of communities it serves. While we can’t list every single stop here, the train makes convenient stops in all the major population centers along the route.
Key Amtrak Cascades stations include:
- Vancouver, BC – Pacific Central Station: Your starting or ending point in Canada.
- Bellingham, WA: A beautiful coastal city.
- Everett, WA: North of Seattle.
- Seattle, WA – King Street Station: A major hub and a beautiful historic station.
- Tacoma, WA: South of Seattle.
- Olympia-Lacey, WA: Serving the state capital area.
- Centralia, WA: A mid-sized city stop.
- Kelso-Longview, WA: A stop just north of the Oregon border.
- Portland, OR – Union Station: Another grand, historic station and a major transfer point.
- Oregon City, OR: South of Portland.
- Salem, OR: Oregon’s capital city.
- Albany, OR: A stop in the Willamette Valley.
- Eugene, OR: The southern end of the line.
Beyond these, the Cascades also stops in smaller towns, making it a great option for regional travel throughout Washington and Oregon. Station amenities vary, but major stations like Seattle and Portland offer ticketing, waiting areas, and often food/drink options.
Amtrak Cascades Schedule: Planning Your Departure
The Amtrak Cascades schedule is designed for frequent service along the corridor. You can typically find multiple departures daily in each direction, especially between the major city pairs like Seattle and Portland.
Important Tip: Train schedules can occasionally change due to maintenance or other factors. The absolute best place to find the most current and accurate Amtrak Cascades schedule is always the official Amtrak website or the Amtrak app. You can easily search by your departure and arrival stations and desired travel date.
Amtrak Cascades Cost: Understanding Fares
Wondering about the Amtrak Cascades cost? Train fares are dynamic, meaning they fluctuate based on several factors:
- How far in advance you book: Generally, booking early gets you the best prices.
- Day and time of travel: Peak travel times (weekends, holidays, rush hour) are usually more expensive.
- Demand for the specific train: Popular trains cost more.
- Type of fare: You can choose between Coach class and Business class (offering more space and amenities).
While prices vary greatly, you might find fares between Seattle and Portland ranging anywhere from $25-$60+ for Coach if booked in advance. Longer journeys, like Vancouver to Eugene, will naturally cost more.
Booking early is key to finding cheaper Amtrak Cascades tickets! Keep an eye out for Amtrak sales and discounts as well.
Booking Tips for the Amtrak Cascades
Ready to book your trip? Here are a few Amtrak Cascades booking tips:
- Book in Advance: As mentioned, this is the #1 tip for getting better prices, especially during peak season or holidays.
- Use the Official Amtrak Channels: Book directly through the Amtrak website (Amtrak.com) or the official Amtrak mobile app. This ensures you’re getting real-time pricing and availability.
- Be Flexible (If Possible): If your travel dates are flexible, check prices for different days or times. Sometimes shifting your trip by even a day can save you money.
- Consider Business Class: For a little extra comfort, especially on longer journeys, Business Class offers more legroom and often complimentary non-alcoholic drinks.
- Understand Fare Types: Amtrak has different fare rules (e.g., Saver, Value, Flexible) regarding changes and refunds. Choose the one that best fits your needs.
- Sign Up for Amtrak Guest Rewards: Earn points for your travel!
Why Choose the Amtrak Cascades for Your Next Trip?
Beyond just getting from point A to point B, traveling on the Amtrak Cascades is part of the adventure. You get to:
- Enjoy the Scenery: Sit back, relax, and watch the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes roll by.
- Avoid Traffic: Skip the stress of driving on busy highways like I-5.
- Work or Relax: Use the travel time productively or simply unwind without focusing on the road.
- Access Convenient Stations: Many Amtrak stations are located right in the heart of cities, making it easy to arrive and start exploring.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway between Seattle and Portland, visiting family up north in Vancouver, or starting a longer rail journey, the Amtrak Cascades train is a fantastic option for train travel in the Pacific Northwest.