California by Rail: The Ultimate Guide to 2025-26 Train Tours

Thinking about exploring the Golden State in a unique and relaxing way? A train journey through California offers a front-row seat to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, all without the stress of traffic. This guide will walk you through the best train tours and routes for your 2025-26 travel plans.

Why Choose a Train to See California?

While driving gives you freedom, traveling by train offers a completely different and often more enriching experience. It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the scenery. Instead of focusing on the road, you can gaze out of large picture windows at dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and majestic mountains.

Modern train travel, especially on long-distance routes, is designed for comfort. You can walk around, stretch your legs, visit a dining car for a full meal, or relax in an observation lounge with panoramic views. It’s a chance to slow down and truly appreciate the journey itself, turning travel time into a memorable part of your vacation. You can read, chat with fellow travelers, or simply watch the diverse landscapes of California unfold before your eyes.

Iconic California Train Routes for 2025-26

California is served by several legendary Amtrak routes that are perfect for sightseeing. These routes are well-established and will continue to be the primary options for scenic travel throughout 2025 and 2026. Here are the top journeys to consider for your adventure.

The Coast Starlight: A West Coast Masterpiece

Often called one of the most beautiful train rides in North America, the Coast Starlight runs between Los Angeles and Seattle, with a significant portion of its journey showcasing the California coast.

  • The Route: From Los Angeles, the train heads north through the San Fernando Valley before meeting the Pacific Ocean near Santa Barbara. The most famous stretch is between Oxnard and San Luis Obispo, where the tracks run right alongside the ocean, offering unobstructed views of waves crashing on the shore. It continues north through Salinas, the San Francisco Bay Area (with a stop in Emeryville for San Francisco access), Sacramento, and into the mountains of Northern California.
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: You will experience a remarkable variety of scenery. The journey begins with the sparkling Pacific, then moves to the rolling, oak-studded hills of the Central Coast wine country. Further north, you’ll see the vast agricultural lands of the Salinas Valley and eventually the dense forests and volcanic peaks, like Mount Shasta, in the state’s upper reaches.
  • Onboard Experience: As a long-distance train, the Coast Starlight features Superliner cars, which include a dedicated Sightseer Lounge car with floor-to-ceiling windows, a full-service dining car, and options for private sleeping rooms.

The Pacific Surfliner: A SoCal Coastal Cruise

For those focused on Southern California, the Pacific Surfliner is the perfect choice. This route hugs the coast, connecting charming beach towns and major cities.

  • The Route: The train travels 351 miles through a six-county coastal region, running from San Diego in the south to San Luis Obispo in the north. Key stops include Solana Beach, Anaheim (for Disneyland), Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara.
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: This route delivers iconic Southern California views. You’ll pass world-famous surf spots like Trestles near San Clemente, glide past picturesque harbors, and see miles of sandy beaches. The section between San Diego and Los Angeles is particularly famous for its proximity to the water.
  • Onboard Experience: The Pacific Surfliner uses bi-level cars with large windows. While it’s not an overnight train with sleeper cars, it does have a Cafe Car for snacks and drinks. Many passengers use it for day trips between cities like San Diego and Los Angeles or for a scenic weekend getaway to Santa Barbara.

The California Zephyr: Through the Sierra Nevadas

If you want to see California’s epic mountain scenery, the California Zephyr is the train for you. While its full route goes all the way to Chicago, the California portion is arguably the most dramatic.

  • The Route: The journey begins in Emeryville (across the bay from San Francisco) and travels east. After passing through Sacramento, the train begins its incredible climb into the Sierra Nevada mountains, following the historic route of the First Transcontinental Railroad. It passes through Reno, Nevada, after crossing the state line at the crest of the mountains.
  • Breathtaking Landscapes: This is a journey of epic scale. You’ll see the beautiful San Pablo Bay before ascending through the forests and granite canyons of the Sierra Nevadas. The highlight is the journey over Donner Pass, which sits at an elevation of 7,056 feet. The views of the mountains, deep valleys, and alpine lakes are truly unforgettable, especially in winter when the landscape is covered in snow.
  • Onboard Experience: Like the Coast Starlight, the California Zephyr is a Superliner train with a Sightseer Lounge, dining car, and sleeping accommodations, making the mountain passage a comfortable and awe-inspiring experience.

Planning Your 2025-26 California Train Adventure

Planning ahead is key to a great train trip. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your journey.

Best Time to Travel

  • Spring (March-May): A fantastic time for most routes. The coastal hills are green and vibrant, and wildflowers are often in bloom. The mountain snow in the Sierras is starting to melt, creating beautiful waterfall views.
  • Summer (June-August): The most popular and busiest season. Coastal routes offer a refreshing escape from inland heat. It’s a great time for beach town stops along the Pacific Surfliner.
  • Fall (September-November): Often considered the best time for coastal travel, with warm, sunny weather and fewer crowds than summer. The Central Coast wine regions are in their harvest season.
  • Winter (December-February): The California Zephyr journey through the snow-covered Sierra Nevadas is magical. The coastal routes are milder, offering a peaceful travel experience.

Booking Your Tickets

You can book tickets directly through the Amtrak website or app. It’s generally best to book several months in advance for the best prices and availability, especially if you want a private sleeping room on a long-distance route like the Coast Starlight or California Zephyr.

What to Pack

  • Comfortable Clothes: Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary.
  • Camera and Binoculars: You won’t want to miss the photo opportunities.
  • Snacks and Water: While there is food for sale, it’s always good to have your own.
  • Chargers/Power Bank: Outlets are available, but a power bank is handy.
  • A Good Book: Part of the joy is relaxing and enjoying the ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get on and off the train to explore? Yes, you can book multi-stop itineraries. For example, you could take the Coast Starlight from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo, stay for two days, and then continue your journey north on a later train. You just need to book each leg of the journey separately.

Are the trains accessible for passengers with disabilities? Yes, Amtrak trains are equipped with accessible seating, restrooms, and sleeping accommodations. It is recommended to request assistance and specify your needs when booking your ticket.

Is Wi-Fi available on the trains? Yes, most Amtrak trains in California offer complimentary basic Wi-Fi. However, the connection can be spotty in remote or mountainous areas, so it’s best not to rely on it for important work. It is generally suitable for basic browsing and email.