Columbus to St. Paul by Train

Travel from Columbus, WI in Columbus, WI to Saint Paul Union Depot in St. Paul, MN on the Borealis. Approximately 262 miles in 5h 24m.

About this trip

The Borealis connects Columbus and St. Paul directly, with no transfer required. The train operates daily, and the segment between these two stations is one of 41 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 262 rail miles takes about 5h 24m 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: Mississippi River bluffs between La Crosse and Saint Paul — perhaps the most underrated stretch of passenger railroading in the Midwest.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Columbus and St. Paul typically run between $32 and $59. 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 Borealis, 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 (MnDOT/WisDOT)) 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 Columbus and St. Paul, the Borealis 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.

• Columbus, WI — Columbus, WI CBS
• Portage, WI — Portage, WI POG
• Wisconsin Dells — Wisconsin Dells, WI WDL
• Tomah — Tomah, WI TOH
• La Crosse — La Crosse, WI LSE
• Winona — Winona, MN WIN
• Red Wing — Red Wing, MN RDW
• Saint Paul Union Depot — St. Paul, MN MSP

Getting to Columbus, WI and from Saint Paul Union Depot

Both stations are accessible by local public transit, taxi, and rideshare. Columbus, WI sits in Columbus, WI; arrival at Saint Paul Union Depot places you in St. Paul, MN. 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 Columbus to St. Paul take?

Approximately 5h 24m on a typical schedule, covering about 262 miles.

Is there a direct train?

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

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $32 to $59 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 (MnDOT/WisDOT) at the time of booking.