Asheville, North Carolina, a destination within the Blue Ridge Mountains, is not directly served by Amtrak rail services. Passengers intending to travel to Asheville via Amtrak must utilize connecting transportation from the nearest Amtrak stations. This document outlines viable Amtrak access points and onward travel methods to Asheville.
Direct Amtrak Service to Asheville: Absence of Direct Rail Connection
Currently, Asheville, NC, lacks a designated Amtrak station or direct Amtrak train service. Rail travel to Asheville necessitates utilizing connecting transportation from proximate Amtrak stations in neighboring South Carolina and North Carolina.
Proximity of Amtrak Stations in South Carolina
Two Amtrak stations on the Crescent route in South Carolina offer relatively shorter onward journeys to Asheville:
Spartanburg, SC (SPB):
Located approximately 70 miles (113 km) southeast of Asheville. The Spartanburg station is accessible via Amtrak’s Crescent route, operating daily between New York City and New Orleans. Spartanburg offers proximity to Wofford College and rental car agencies (Enterprise, Hertz), though direct pick-up service is not available, requiring taxi or rideshare transport to rental facilities. The Spartanburg Marriott hotel is within walking distance of the station, as is a 24-hour Krispy Kreme, potentially relevant for passengers with extended layovers or overnight needs. Greyhound bus service is available, but necessitates transfers and entails an approximate five-hour travel duration to Asheville.
Greenville, SC (GRL):
Situated approximately 100 miles (161 km) southeast of Asheville. Greenville station is also served by Amtrak’s Crescent route. The station is located outside of downtown Greenville and is not considered pedestrian-friendly. Rental car agencies (Enterprise, Hertz) are located nearby, but similarly lack direct station pick-up, requiring taxi or rideshare access. Late-night arrivals at Greenville station may pose challenges in securing immediate ground transportation to hotels. Southeastern Stages bus lines may offer connections to Asheville, subject to route availability. Greyhound bus service is also an option, but involves bus transfers and a travel time exceeding six hours to Asheville.
Alternative Route via Charlotte, NC (CLT)
Charlotte, NC, situated approximately 130 miles (209 km) east of Asheville, presents an alternative Amtrak access point. Charlotte Station (CLT) is served by Amtrak’s Carolinian, Crescent, and Piedmont routes. Carolinian and Piedmont routes offer daytime service with potentially more convenient arrival times for onward connections. Charlotte provides a greater range of hotel accommodations and rental car options compared to Spartanburg and Greenville. Direct Greyhound bus service to Asheville is available from Charlotte, with a travel duration of approximately three hours. Driving time from Charlotte to Asheville is roughly two hours.
Station Information Summary
- Spartanburg Station (SPB): Crescent route. Proximity to hotel (Spartanburg Marriott) and limited amenities within walking distance of the station. Rental car access via taxi/rideshare. Greyhound bus connections with transfer required.
- Greenville Station (GRL): Crescent route. Station located outside downtown, not easily walkable. Rental car access via taxi/rideshare. Southeastern Stages and Greyhound bus connections available, Greyhound requires transfer.
- Charlotte Station (CLT): Carolinian, Crescent, Piedmont routes. More extensive hotel and rental car options in Charlotte. Direct Greyhound bus service to Asheville (approximately 3 hours).
Amtrak Expansion Plans
It is noted that Amtrak’s future expansion initiatives may include the introduction of train service to and from Asheville. Passengers should consult official Amtrak resources for updates regarding potential service expansions.
Disclaimer: Information regarding station services, connecting transportation, and Amtrak expansion plans is subject to change. Passengers are advised to verify details with Amtrak and connecting transportation providers directly prior to travel.