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Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Santa Fe to Merced. The train trip from Santa Fe to Merced is usually about 27 hours and 27 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 27 hours and 13 minutes.
| Distance | 815 mi (1311 km) |
| Fastest train | 27h 13m |
| Lowest price | $198.08 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Santa Fe to Merced?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Santa Fe to Merced. 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 | 1d 3h 27m | $215.33 |
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 Fe to Merced every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $198.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Santa Fe and Merced is approximately 815 miles, or 1311 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 27 hours and 27 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 27 hours and 13 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 Fe to Merced 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 Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Santa Fe at 12:00pm and arrives in Merced around 27 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 Merced to Santa Fe.
City Information
Merced
Merced is a beautiful city in the Central Valley of California. Nicknamed the Gateway to Yosemite, it’s no shock to learn Merced is only about an hour and a half drive from Yosemite National Park. But if you’d prefer to stay in town, Merced has an abundance of gorgeous parks, winding bike routes, golf courses, hiking, boating, fishing, camping – the list goes on.
For indoor fun, check out the Merced Multicultural Art Centre for art viewing and classes. Or, if you’re on the hunt for a bargain or home decor, visit the Merced Antique Mall with 7500 square feet of antiques and curios. Once you’ve worked up an appetite perusing, head to the Hilmar Cheese Company to tour the factory, watch the packaging process, and, the best part, eat all the free samples. To make it a full charcuterie meal, visit the Merced Fruit Barn. As a sort of farmer’s market, the Fruit Barn has arguably the best fresh and dried fruit in the state and a deli on-site for any and all sandwich needs.
The nearest major airport is Merced Regional Airport. Amtrak has routes through the city to Seattle, Yosemite Valley, and San Francisco, and Greyhound connects LA to Merced.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Santa Fe?
Main departure station: 410 S Guadalupe St
There are two stations in Santa Fe where you can board the train to Merced.
All train stations in Santa Fe:
410 S Guadalupe St
198 State Rd 192
Where is the train station in Merced?
Main arrival station: 324 W 24th St
Merced has one train station.
Train stations in Merced:
324 W 24th St
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