Los Angeles to Riverside by Train

Travel from Los Angeles Union Station in Los Angeles, CA to Riverside in Riverside, US on the Metrolink. Approximately 497 miles in 10h 6m.

About this trip

The Metrolink connects Los Angeles and Riverside directly, with no transfer required. The train operates seven lines with weekday peak service, and the segment between these two stations is one of 51 origin-destination pairs we catalog on this route.

Coverage of approximately 497 rail miles takes about 10h 6m 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: Pacific Surfliner overlap south of LAUS; San Gabriel Mountains backdrop; Santa Susana Pass.

Fares and ticketing

One-way fares between Los Angeles and Riverside typically run between $8 and $18. 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 Metrolink, 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 (SCRRA) 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 Los Angeles and Riverside, the Metrolink 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.

• Los Angeles Union Station — Los Angeles, CA LAX
• Glendale — Glendale, CA GDL
• Hollywood Burbank Airport — Burbank, CA BUR
• Van Nuys — Van Nuys, CA VNC
• Simi Valley — Simi Valley, CA SIM
• Oxnard — Oxnard, CA OXN
• Fullerton — Fullerton, CA FUL
• Anaheim — Anaheim, CA ANA
• Santa Ana — Santa Ana, CA SNA
• Irvine — Irvine, CA IRV
• Oceanside — Oceanside, CA OSD
• San Bernardino — San Bernardino, US SAN
• Riverside — Riverside, US RIV

Getting to Los Angeles Union Station and from Riverside

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

Approximately 10h 6m on a typical schedule, covering about 497 miles.

Is there a direct train?

Yes — the Metrolink operates seven lines with weekday peak service with no required transfer for this city pair.

How much does the ticket cost?

Approximately $8 to $18 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 SCRRA at the time of booking.