Auto Train

The Auto Train connects Lorton, VA and Sanford, FL over a 855-mile route operated by Amtrak, calling at 2 stations across 2 states.

Route guide

The Auto Train is a long-distance (vehicle carry) service operated by Amtrak. Trains run Daily over 855 miles of mainline track between Lorton and Sanford, calling at 2 intermediate and terminal stations across 2 states. For background reading on the corridor, several archival route histories are available alongside the operator's own marketing pages.

What to watch for: Daylight running across the Carolinas in autumn westbound; sunset on the Tarheel pine plains.

History & service notes

Amtrak’s only auto-carrying train, with continuous service since 1983 between Lorton, Virginia and Sanford, Florida. Passengers ride a luxury overnight train; their cars travel on enclosed flatcars at the rear. Riders interested in pre-Amtrak operating history of the line can consult classic timetable archives for fuller context.

Equipment

Typical consist on the Auto Train includes superliner sleepers, dining cars, lounges, autorack flatcars. Equipment assignments may vary by departure and season; consult the operator for the most current information.

Stops along the route

Stations are listed in geographical order from Lorton to Sanford. Times and exact stop sequencing depend on the specific train number and direction; refer to the operator's timetable for departures.

• Lorton — Lorton, VA LOR
• Sanford — Sanford, FL SFA

Sample fares & travel times

Approximate one-way fare ranges and travel times for popular city pairs on this route. Fares vary widely by demand, time of booking, and class of service — these figures are reference midpoints suitable for planning, not booking. Click any pair for a fuller trip guide.

Connections & transfers

Major hubs along the route offer cross-platform transfers to other intercity and commuter services. From Lorton, riders can change for connecting trains and intercity buses; the same is true at Sanford. The corridor passes through cities including Lorton, Sanford, each with its own onward service map. A useful reference for cross-network connections is the consolidated national rail connection guide, updated each timetable change.