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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Santa Cruz to Reno. Traveling by train from Santa Cruz to Reno usually takes around 8 hours and 1 minute, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 7 hours and 55 minutes.
| Distance | 214 mi (344 km) |
| Fastest train | 7h 55m |
| Lowest price | $129.80 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Santa Cruz to Reno?
The average price for a train ticket from Santa Cruz to Reno is $129.80, By booking your trip at least 1 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $0.27 more.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Santa Cruz to Reno often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in October when the average ticket price is only $109,
If you're thinking of traveling from Santa Cruz to Reno during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $128 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Which train should you take from Santa Cruz to Reno?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Santa Cruz to Reno. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 8h 1m | $130.13 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Santa Cruz to Reno every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $130.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Santa Cruz and Reno is approximately 214 miles, or 344 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 8 hours and 1 minute, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 7 hours and 55 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Trains from Santa Cruz to Reno are the most crowded on Monday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Santa Cruz at 9:00am and arrives in Reno around 7 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Reno to Santa Cruz.
City Information
Reno
Dazzling with neon lights and bustling through the night, Reno is a great destination for those seeking top-class entertainment. Though considerably outshined by Las Vegas, Reno still brings unique attractions to the table. Among the most notable destinations for non-gamblers is an independent art scene down at Riverwalk, where indie galleries as well as restaurants abound. Fans of the great outdoors should not miss out on nearby Lake Tahoe, which stands among the most beautiful vacation destinations in the country.
At its core, Reno is still a city for gamblers, and it certainly does not disappoint. Slot machines, table games and cabaret shows are available at the local casinos, ready to tempt risk-takers who wish to court Lady Luck.
Right in the heart of downtown Reno, you will find the Reno Amtrak station from where you can take a train to Northern California and beyond. The local Reno-Tahoe International Airport is located outside of the city and it provides quick access to international flight routes. The main bus stop that serves Reno is also located at the airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Santa Cruz?
Main departure station: Santa Cruz, California
There is one train station in Santa Cruz.
All train stations in Santa Cruz:
Santa Cruz, California
Where is the train station in Reno?
Image credit: Mark Hogan
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Mark Hogan
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Reno Amtrak Train Station
The Amtrak Station in Reno is one of the main travel hubs in the city and opened in 1868. Located on North Center St, the station is surrounded by the casinos, restaurants, and hotels which put Reno on the map. Due to its downtown location, the station waiting area and the train tracks are actually placed below ground level. The California Zephyr train line passes through this station on its route from Chicago to Emeryville as well as Amtrak Thruway buses which connect to Sacramento.
Train stations in Reno:
Reno Amtrak Train Station
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Need a return trip from Reno to Santa Cruz?
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