Amtrak · Long-Distance
California Zephyr
Widely called the most scenic train in North America: Chicago to the San Francisco Bay over the Rockies via Moffat Tunnel and the Sierra Nevada via Donner Pass.
Train numbers
5 / 6
End-to-end
51h 10m · 3,924 km
Frequency
Daily
On-time
~55%
Route & indicative timetable
Outbound departure 14:00 · return departs 09:10
- Chicago Union Station CHI
Chicago, Illinois
dep 14:00
- Denver Union Station DEN
Denver, Colorado
arr 07:15 dep 07:40+1 day
- Salt Lake City Central SLC
Salt Lake City, Utah
arr 23:10 dep 23:10+1 day
- Sacramento Valley Station SAC
Sacramento, California
arr 15:10 dep 15:10+2 days
- Emeryville Station EMY
San Francisco Bay Area, California
arr 17:10 +2 days
Classes & indicative end-to-end fares
Coach
Reserved reclining seat
indicative
Roomette (Sleeper)
Private room for 1–2
indicative
Bedroom (Sleeper)
Private room with en-suite
indicative
- Coach: Reserved reclining seat · Power outlets · Big luggage allowance
- Roomette (Sleeper): Private room for 1–2 · All meals included · Beds + daytime seating
- Bedroom (Sleeper): Private room with en-suite · All meals included · Sleeps 2 adults
Onboard amenities
- • The Denver–Grand Junction stretch through the Rockies is the scenic highlight — daylight in both directions.
Amtrak policies
- Baggage:
- Two personal items + two carry-on bags free (25 lb / 50 lb limits); up to four checked bags (two free) on routes with checked-baggage service.
- Pets:
- Dogs and cats up to 20 lb (pet + carrier) allowed on most routes up to 7 hours in a carrier, $29–$39 fee, book in advance — not on Auto Train or in sleepers.
- Bikes:
- Trainside or checked bike service on most routes for $10–$20; folding bikes ride free as carry-on. Reserve a bike space when booking.
- Refunds:
- Fully refundable up to 24h after purchase; after that, refundability depends on fare family (Flex fully refundable, Value 75% or eCredit, Saver 50% eCredit within window).
- Accessibility:
- Accessible seating/bedrooms on every train, wheelchair assistance at staffed stations, 10% rail-fare discount for passengers with a disability.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the California Zephyr take?
The full run from Chicago Union Station to Emeryville Station is scheduled at about 51h 10m. It operates daily.
How much is a ticket on the California Zephyr?
Indicative end-to-end fares start at $170 in Coach, rising through Roomette (Sleeper) and Bedroom (Sleeper). Fares are dynamic — we confirm exact pricing at booking.
Is food available on the California Zephyr?
Yes — a dining car serves full meals (included for sleeper passengers) and a café car sells snacks.
Can I take luggage on the California Zephyr?
Two personal items + two carry-on bags free (25 lb / 50 lb limits); up to four checked bags (two free) on routes with checked-baggage service.
Are pets allowed on the California Zephyr?
Dogs and cats up to 20 lb (pet + carrier) allowed on most routes up to 7 hours in a carrier, $29–$39 fee, book in advance — not on Auto Train or in sleepers.
More trains you might compare
Schedules and fares shown are indicative, compiled from official operator timetables. Rail operators adjust timings, fares and running days without notice — our rail desk confirms live availability and exact pricing before any booking is ticketed.