Train Travel in California

Three corridor services — Pacific Surfliner, Capitol Corridor, San Joaquins — combine with three long-distance trains to give California the most intercity passenger rail of any U.S. state west of the Mississippi.

Routes serving California

The following passenger rail services call at one or more stations in California. Routes range from short-haul commuter rail systems to transcontinental long-distance trains; the table below sorts by service type and distance. A useful supplemental resource is the state-level rail capital plan summary for context on funded improvements.

Stations in California

Our station index covers 33 facilities in California, from large urban union stations to rural flag stops.

Travel notes

California is part of the West region. Riders connecting between routes within the state can use any of the major hubs above for cross-platform or short-walk transfers, depending on the station. For onward travel beyond the rail network, intercity bus and connecting Thruway services often complement the train; consult the operator for current connecting itineraries.

Fare structures, on-board amenities, and ticketing systems differ between Amtrak, state-supported corridors, and individual commuter operators. Long-distance Amtrak trains typically offer reserved sleeping accommodations alongside coach class; corridor services are reserved coach with optional business class; and commuter rail is generally open seating with monthly-pass fare options.