Chicago to Auburn by Train

Travel from Chicago Union Station in Chicago, IL to Auburn in Auburn, CA on the California Zephyr. Approximately 2,008 miles in 40h 20m.

About this trip

The California Zephyr connects Chicago and Auburn directly, with no transfer required. The train operates daily, and the segment between these two stations is one of 156 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 2,008 rail miles takes about 40h 20m 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: Continuous spectacle for two days — Glenwood Canyon, Ruby Canyon of the Colorado, the Sierra Nevada via Donner Pass — widely considered the most scenic train ride in North America.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Chicago and Auburn typically run between $139 and $800. 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 California Zephyr, 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 Chicago and Auburn, the California Zephyr 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.

• Chicago Union Station — Chicago, IL CHI
• Naperville — Naperville, IL NPV
• Princeton, IL — Princeton, IL PCT
• Galesburg — Galesburg, IL GBB
• Mt. Pleasant — Mt. Pleasant, IA MTP
• Ottumwa — Ottumwa, IA OTM
• Osceola — Osceola, IA OSC
• Creston — Creston, IA CRN
• Omaha — Omaha, NE OMA
• Lincoln — Lincoln, NE LNK
• Hastings — Hastings, NE HAS
• Holdrege — Holdrege, NE HOL
• McCook — McCook, NE MCK
• Fort Morgan — Fort Morgan, CO FMG
• Denver Union Station — Denver, CO DEN
• Granby — Granby, CO GRA
• Glenwood Springs — Glenwood Springs, CO GSC
• Grand Junction — Grand Junction, CO GJT
• Green River, UT — Green River, UT GRI
• Helper — Helper, UT HER
• Provo — Provo, UT PRV
• Salt Lake City — Salt Lake City, UT SLC
• Elko — Elko, NV ELK
• Winnemucca — Winnemucca, NV WIN
• Reno — Reno, NV RNO
• Sparks — Sparks, NV SPK
• Truckee — Truckee, CA TRU
• Colfax — Colfax, CA COX
• Auburn — Auburn, CA ARN

Getting to Chicago Union Station and from Auburn

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Chicago Union Station sits in Chicago, IL; arrival at Auburn places you in Auburn, CA. 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 Chicago to Auburn take?

Approximately 40h 20m on a typical schedule, covering about 2,008 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the California Zephyr operates daily with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $139 to $800 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.