Chicago to Flagstaff by Train

Travel from Chicago Union Station in Chicago, IL to Flagstaff in Flagstaff, AZ on the Southwest Chief. Approximately 1,628 miles in 32h 44m.

About this trip

The Southwest Chief connects Chicago and Flagstaff directly, with no transfer required. The train operates daily, and the segment between these two stations is one of 146 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 1,628 rail miles takes about 32h 44m 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: High desert and red rock between Lamy and Flagstaff — the historic Santa Fe Railway route through Indian Country.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Chicago and Flagstaff typically run between $121 and $686. 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 Southwest Chief, 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 Flagstaff, the Southwest Chief 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
• Mendota — Mendota, IL MDT
• Princeton, IL — Princeton, IL PCT
• Galesburg — Galesburg, IL GBB
• Fort Madison — Fort Madison, US FOR
• La Plata — La Plata, US LAP
• Kansas City Union Station — Kansas City, MO KCY
• Lawrence — Lawrence, US LAW
• Topeka — Topeka, US TOP
• Newton — Newton, US NEW
• Hutchinson — Hutchinson, US HUT
• Dodge City — Dodge City, US DOD
• Garden City — Garden City, US GAR
• Lamar — Lamar, CO LMR
• La Junta — La Junta, CO LAJ
• Trinidad — Trinidad, CO TRI
• Raton — Raton, NM RAT
• Las Vegas, NM — Las Vegas, NM LSV
• Lamy — Lamy, NM LMY
• Albuquerque — Albuquerque, NM ABQ
• Gallup — Gallup, NM GLP
• Winslow — Winslow, AZ WLO
• Flagstaff — Flagstaff, AZ FLG

Getting to Chicago Union Station and from Flagstaff

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

Approximately 32h 44m on a typical schedule, covering about 1,628 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Southwest Chief operates daily with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $121 to $686 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.