Oregon is a land of diverse beauty—coastal cliffs, lush forests, urban skylines, and high deserts. One of the most relaxing and picturesque ways to experience all that this state has to offer is by train. Whether you’re heading from the mountains to the city or from the capital to the coast, Amtrak stations across Oregon serve as essential gateways to adventure, commerce, and connection.
🏙️ Portland Union Station: Oregon’s Premier Rail Hub
At the core of Oregon’s rail infrastructure stands Portland Union Station, a majestic and historic terminal located in downtown Portland. Recognized for its iconic “Go By Train” neon sign and timeless architecture, it’s not just a transit point—it’s an emblem of Oregon’s rail heritage. Trains like the Amtrak Cascades, Coast Starlight, and Empire Builder lines all converge here, connecting Portland to destinations as far as Vancouver, B.C., Los Angeles, and Chicago.
Union Station offers full passenger services, including ticketing, restrooms, and accessibility features. Its central location makes it a perfect departure or arrival point for both residents and visitors.
🌲 Beyond the City: Smaller Stations, Big Impact
While Portland may be the star, Oregon’s smaller Amtrak stations add richness to the state’s transportation network. Stations in Salem, Eugene, Albany, Chemult, and Klamath Falls serve thousands of passengers each year, providing vital links for college students, government workers, rural residents, and nature enthusiasts.
Eugene Station, for instance, is a favorite among University of Oregon students and offers access to southern routes. Klamath Falls, near the California border, opens the door to outdoor experiences like Crater Lake National Park. Even small-town stops like Chemult are key entry points to Oregon’s most beautiful remote areas.
In fact, the amtrak stations in oregon are remarkably well distributed, making it possible to travel through the state without needing a car—something few states can truly offer.
🚆 Riding the Cascades: Comfort Meets Convenience
The Amtrak Cascades route is perhaps the most iconic in the Pacific Northwest. It runs from Eugene through Portland and into Washington state, offering travelers the chance to view stunning scenery from the comfort of their seats. Sleek Talgo trains provide onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, bike racks, and snack services, making the ride both productive and enjoyable.
Travelers can also take advantage of Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route, which stretches from Seattle to Los Angeles and offers a front-row seat to the West Coast’s most dramatic views. It’s more than a train ride—it’s an experience.
🌄 Scenic, Sustainable, and Stress-Free
One of the great advantages of Oregon’s Amtrak stations is the commitment to sustainable travel. Rail service offers a lower carbon footprint compared to driving or flying and allows passengers to relax while avoiding traffic, inclement weather, or airport lines.
Oregon’s natural beauty becomes part of the journey, with panoramic windows showcasing everything from Mount Hood to the Willamette Valley. For locals and tourists alike, Amtrak offers a chance to rediscover the art of travel.
🧳 Final Thoughts: Let the Journey Begin
Whether you’re traveling for business, going to college, visiting family, or simply craving an escape into Oregon’s epic landscapes, Amtrak provides a welcoming and efficient ride. Each station—from the grandeur of Portland to the quiet stops in Chemult or Albany—plays a role in the larger story of rail in the Pacific Northwest.
With reliable service, comfortable amenities, and some of the most scenic routes in the country, Oregon’s Amtrak network continues to be a vital lifeline for the state. If you haven’t explored it yet, it’s time to hop aboard.
❓How many Amtrak stations are there in Oregon?
Oregon has seven Amtrak stations served by different lines including the Coast Starlight, Amtrak Cascades, and Empire Builder. These stations are located in:
- Portland (Union Station)
- Eugene
- Salem
- Albany
- Oregon City
- Chemult
- Klamath Falls
❓Which is the main Amtrak station in Oregon?
The primary Amtrak station in Oregon is Portland Union Station. It’s the busiest and most centrally connected hub, offering multiple daily departures and connections to national routes.
❓What Amtrak routes run through Oregon?
There are three main Amtrak routes serving Oregon:
- Amtrak Cascades – runs between Eugene and Seattle/Vancouver, B.C.
- Coast Starlight – travels from Seattle to Los Angeles via Portland and Klamath Falls
- Empire Builder – connects Portland with Spokane, Chicago, and other northern U.S. cities
❓Can I travel from Oregon to California by Amtrak?
Yes! The Coast Starlight route connects Oregon to major California cities, including Sacramento, San Jose, and Los Angeles. You can board at Klamath Falls, Eugene, Salem, or Portland.
❓Are all Amtrak stations in Oregon wheelchair accessible?
Most Amtrak stations in Oregon, including Portland, Eugene, and Salem, are ADA compliant and provide wheelchair-accessible platforms, restrooms, and assistance services. It’s best to call ahead or check the Amtrak website for specifics per station.
❓Do Oregon Amtrak stations have parking?
Yes, most stations such as Eugene, Salem, and Portland Union Station offer short-term and long-term parking. Availability and cost vary by location, so it’s advisable to check before your trip.
❓Can I bring a bike on Amtrak in Oregon?
Yes, Amtrak Cascades trains allow bikes with advanced reservations. Portland and Eugene stations are especially bike-friendly. However, bike policies vary by route, so be sure to check the Amtrak policy for your specific train.
❓Is there Wi-Fi on Amtrak trains in Oregon?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on Amtrak Cascades trains and at major stations like Portland and Eugene. The Coast Starlight may not offer Wi-Fi on all segments, especially in more remote areas.
❓Are pets allowed on Amtrak trains in Oregon?
Small pets (cats and dogs under 20 lbs.) are allowed on select routes, including Amtrak Cascades, for trips under 7 hours. A reservation and pet fee are required. Service animals are always welcome.❓How many Amtrak stations are there in Oregon?
Oregon has seven Amtrak stations served by different lines including the Coast Starlight, Amtrak Cascades, and Empire Builder. These stations are located in:
- Portland (Union Station)
- Eugene
- Salem
- Albany
- Oregon City
- Chemult
- Klamath Falls
❓Which is the main Amtrak station in Oregon?
The primary Amtrak station in Oregon is Portland Union Station. It’s the busiest and most centrally connected hub, offering multiple daily departures and connections to national routes.
❓What Amtrak routes run through Oregon?
There are three main Amtrak routes serving Oregon:
- Amtrak Cascades – runs between Eugene and Seattle/Vancouver, B.C.
- Coast Starlight – travels from Seattle to Los Angeles via Portland and Klamath Falls
- Empire Builder – connects Portland with Spokane, Chicago, and other northern U.S. cities
❓Can I travel from Oregon to California by Amtrak?
Yes! The Coast Starlight route connects Oregon to major California cities, including Sacramento, San Jose, and Los Angeles. You can board at Klamath Falls, Eugene, Salem, or Portland.
❓Are all Amtrak stations in Oregon wheelchair accessible?
Most Amtrak stations in Oregon, including Portland, Eugene, and Salem, are ADA compliant and provide wheelchair-accessible platforms, restrooms, and assistance services. It’s best to call ahead or check the Amtrak website for specifics per station.
❓Do Oregon Amtrak stations have parking?
Yes, most stations such as Eugene, Salem, and Portland Union Station offer short-term and long-term parking. Availability and cost vary by location, so it’s advisable to check before your trip.
❓Can I bring a bike on Amtrak in Oregon?
Yes, Amtrak Cascades trains allow bikes with advanced reservations. Portland and Eugene stations are especially bike-friendly. However, bike policies vary by route, so be sure to check the Amtrak policy for your specific train.
❓Is there Wi-Fi on Amtrak trains in Oregon?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on Amtrak Cascades trains and at major stations like Portland and Eugene. The Coast Starlight may not offer Wi-Fi on all segments, especially in more remote areas.
❓Are pets allowed on Amtrak trains in Oregon?
Small pets (cats and dogs under 20 lbs.) are allowed on select routes, including Amtrak Cascades, for trips under 7 hours. A reservation and pet fee are required. Service animals are always welcome.
