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Trains from Denver to Seattle

from
Denver, United States of America
to
Seattle, United States of America

Why Choose the Train from Denver to Seattle

Traveling from Denver to Seattle offers a unique adventure, and the choice of transportation plays a crucial role in shaping your journey. With options like trains, buses, and flights, understanding the advantages of train travel can help you make an informed decision.

💰 Scenic Views

pros
  • Experience breathtaking landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest, that you won't see from a bus or plane.
  • Enjoy the comfort of large windows on the train, providing an unobstructed view of the beautiful scenery along the route.
cons
  • Traveling the scenic route takes significantly longer, approximately 52 hours, which might not be ideal for travelers in a hurry.

🛎️ Comfort and Space

pros
  • Trains offer spacious seating with more legroom compared to cramped bus seats and narrow airplane aisles.
  • Onboard amenities like dining cars and observation lounges enhance comfort during the two-day journey.
cons
  • Train travel includes transfers, which could be inconvenient for travelers preferring a direct route.

⭐ Affordability

pros
  • Ticket prices ranging from $83 to $607 make train travel a cost-effective option, especially with possible discounts.
  • Unlike flights, which often include extra fees, train tickets typically encompass most services and amenities.
cons
  • The overall cost might increase due to potential overnight accommodations during the extended travel time.

highlights:

Traveling by train takes significantly longer than flying, which could impact your travel plans if schedules are tight.

Journey offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration, allowing for breaks to stretch and enjoy stops.

Availability of meals and refreshments on board eliminates the hassle of finding food during long stretches of travel.

Trains foster a friendly atmosphere, allowing you to interact with fellow travelers, enrichening your experience.

Train Options from Denver to Seattle

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingAmtrakDenver Station, DenverSeattle Station, Seattle08:00, 12:30, 17:1512:00, 16:30, 21:15Daily52h
$
83-607
Sacramento

Comparison of Train Operators from Denver to Seattle

Comparing train operators servicing the route from Denver to Seattle is crucial for travelers looking for the best options in terms of price, amenities, and overall service. Given the long journey time and the necessity for transfers, understanding what each operator offers can make a significant difference in the travel experience.

CriteriaAmtrak
Price Range$ 83 - $ 607
pricing policies
refund policyRefund available up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Ticket ChangesChanges permitted with a fee, subject to fare difference.
discounts10% discount for seniors and students.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Onboard dining, Power outlets at seats, Restroom facilities
baggage allowance
Additional FeesAdditional fees apply for oversized baggage.
accessibilityFully accessible features available, including wheelchairs and accessible restrooms.

Travelers looking for a comfortable and flexible travel option from Denver to Seattle via Amtrak will find it to be a well-rounded choice, especially with its combination of amenities and customer-friendly policies. It's important for travelers to consider their specific needs, such as discounts availability or baggage allowance, while making a decision.

Train Stops and Stations from Denver to Seattle

Knowing about the train stations when traveling between Denver and Seattle is essential for a smooth travel experience.

Main Train Stations in Denver

Union Station

Situated in the LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood, Union Station is just a few blocks from the heart of downtown Denver, close to numerous attractions and hotels.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: RTD light rail, buses
  • Taxi and rideshare services availability: Uber, Lyft
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles: onsite parking garage
  • Recommended arrival time before departure: At least 30 minutes prior for domestic travel
  • Security procedures to be aware of: Standard bag checks, allow extra time during peak travel
  • Peak hours to avoid for less crowding: Early morning and late afternoon on weekdays
  • Nearby amenities (shops, restaurants): Union Station has several dining options and shops for last-minute needs.

Main Train Stations in Seattle

King Street Station

Located in the Pioneer Square neighborhood, King Street Station is centrally positioned with easy access to downtown Seattle, the waterfront, and nearby attractions.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with comfortable seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage options
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Restaurants and coffee shops nearby
  • ATMs available
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: Sound Transit light rail, buses, streetcars
  • Taxi and rideshare services availability: Uber, Lyft
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles: nearby parking garages
  • Recommended arrival time before departure: At least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled train time
  • Security procedures to be aware of: Similar to airport procedures, allow time for screenings
  • Peak hours to avoid for less crowding: Late afternoons and weekends
  • Nearby amenities (shops, restaurants): Plenty of dining options and shops right outside the station.

En Route Stops

Fort Collins

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restroom access
  • Small café
  • Benches in waiting area

Cheyenne

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area with seating
  • Snack vending machines

Boise

Duration: 30m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Food trucks outside during service
  • Free Wi-Fi

Pendleton

Duration: 10m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area
  • Benches

Understanding the key features of the train stations in Denver and Seattle, as well as the notable stops along the route, can greatly enhance your travel experience. Familiarize yourself with these details to ensure a smooth journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Capture the Scenic Views

    As you travel from Denver to Seattle, be sure to have your camera ready. The route offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, the lush Cascade Range, and picturesque lakes. Don't miss the chance to take photos during stops, especially at iconic locations like the Columbia River Gorge.

  • 📍 Pack for All Seasons

    The train journey can span diverse climates, so pack layers. It can be warm in Denver, cool in the mountains, and potentially rainy in Seattle. Having a light jacket and comfortable clothing will ensure you're prepared for any weather along the way.

  • 🚍 Enjoy Onboard Dining

    Most trains offer dining services with local specialties. Make mealtime an event by trying out signature dishes from each region you pass through. Ask the staff for their recommendations to enhance your culinary experience.

  • 🎭 Engage with Fellow Passengers

    This journey is a great opportunity to meet like-minded travelers. Take a moment to strike up conversations in communal areas. You might learn about hidden gems to visit in Seattle or intriguing stories from other passengers!

  • 🏛 Plan for Breaks and Stopovers

    The train will stop at various towns along the route. Research these stops ahead of time to see if any pique your interest. Exploring towns like Boise or Spokane could add a fun twist to your trip!

FAQ

The journey typically takes around 18 to 20 hours, depending on the specific train service and any potential delays.
Yes, many trains offer sleeper car options for a more comfortable overnight journey. It's advisable to book these in advance for availability.
Yes, dining services are available on board, featuring local cuisine. You are also allowed to bring your own food, but be mindful of any regulations regarding perishable items.
The journey crosses into different time zones. Denver is in Mountain Time (MT), and Seattle is in Pacific Time (PT), so be sure to adjust your watch accordingly.
Yes, being polite and considerate to fellow passengers is important. Keep noise levels down and respect personal space, especially in shared areas like dining cars and lounges.