Carlinville to Little Rock by Train

Travel from Carlinville in Carlinville, IL to Little Rock in Little Rock, US on the Texas Eagle. Approximately 251 miles in 5h 11m.

About this trip

The Texas Eagle connects Carlinville and Little Rock directly, with no transfer required. The train operates daily chicago–san antonio; tri-weekly through-cars to los angeles via sunset limited, and the segment between these two stations is one of 116 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 251 rail miles takes about 5h 11m on a typical schedule. Actual travel time varies with the specific train number, time of day, equipment used, and seasonal speed restrictions. Trains may run faster on the daylight schedules and slower at peak demand on shared-use trackage. A more granular schedule comparison can be found in independent corridor timetable reviews updated each season.

Things to look out for: Ozark Mountains in southern Missouri and Arkansas; rolling hill country south of Austin.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Carlinville and Little Rock typically run between $49 and $271. The lower end represents Saver-bucket advance-purchase coach fares, while the upper end approximates same-day walk-up fares or premium-class buckets. Sleeping car accommodations on overnight runs of the Texas Eagle, when offered, are sold separately from rail fare and increase total ticket cost substantially.

RailRover does not sell tickets. To book this trip, visit the operating carrier (Amtrak) directly. Discounted fares are typically available with advance purchase, on midweek departures, and through loyalty programs. Several travelers track historical fare patterns on the corridor fare-watch newsletter to time their bookings.

Stations along the way

Between Carlinville and Little Rock, the Texas Eagle calls at the following stations. Some trains may operate as "limited-stop" schedules and skip certain intermediate calls; check the published timetable for your departure.

• Carlinville — Carlinville, IL CRV
• Alton — Alton, IL ALN
• St. Louis Gateway — St. Louis, MO STL
• Kirkwood — Kirkwood, MO KWD
• Poplar Bluff — Poplar Bluff, US POP
• Little Rock — Little Rock, US LIT

Getting to Carlinville and from Little Rock

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Carlinville sits in Carlinville, IL; arrival at Little Rock places you in Little Rock, US. Transfers from the platform to onward bus, light rail, or rideshare are well marked at the major hubs along this route. For specific transit connections at either station, see our station guides linked above.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the train from Carlinville to Little Rock take?

Approximately 5h 11m on a typical schedule, covering about 251 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Texas Eagle operates daily chicago–san antonio; tri-weekly through-cars to los angeles via sunset limited with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $49 to $271 for a one-way coach ticket. Premium classes and sleeping car accommodations cost more.

Can I bring a bicycle or pet?

Most long-distance and corridor trains accept checked or carry-on bicycles and small pets in carriers, with route-specific rules. Confirm with Amtrak at the time of booking.