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Trip Summary
There are 6 daily trains from Salem to Kelso. Traveling by train from Salem to Kelso usually takes around 3 hours and 29 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Cascades train can make the trip in 2 hours and 35 minutes.
| Distance | 83 mi (134 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 35m |
| Lowest price | $26.03 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 3 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Overall score for trains from Salem to Kelso
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Train service from Salem to Kelso
- Amtrak tickets: C$38 one-way
- Amtrak Cascades tickets: C$26 one-way
- Amtrak Coast Starlight tickets: C$36 one-way
Which train should you take from Salem to Kelso?
There are 3 train lines with service from Salem to Kelso. Amtrak is the most popular choice with travelers, offering scheduled service on 4 trains each day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 4h 1m | $48.73 |
| Amtrak Cascades | 2 | 2h 35m | $37.48 |
| Amtrak Coast Starlight | 1 | 2h 44m | $44.53 |
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 4 Amtrak trains from Salem to Kelso every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $38.
The Cascades is a passenger train service operated by Amtrak that runs between Vancouver, BC and Eugene, OR. Not only is the Cascades one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the trains also offer free WiFi, power outlets, reclining seats, and refreshments available for purchase. There are an average of 2 trips on the Amtrak Cascades from Salem to Kelso, and the average train ticket costs .
The Coast Starlight is an Amtrak train that travels the entire length of the West Coast, connecting Los Angeles to Seattle. The route starts hugging the California coastline, treating passengers to swoon-worthy views of the Pacific, before continuing into the verdant forests of the Cascade Mountains. The Coast Starlight indisputably earns its spot among the most scenic Amtrak train routes. Seating options include Coach or Business Class and roomettes or bedrooms for extra space. A trip from Salem to Kelso takes 2 hours and 44 minutes on average, and Coach tickets start at $36.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Salem to Kelso. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.
The distance between Salem and Kelso is approximately 83 miles, or 134 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 29 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 35 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.
Trains departing from Salem to Kelso tend to have the most passengers on Tuesday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Tuesday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Wednesday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs Salem at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 5:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to Kelso. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Kelso to Salem.
City Information
Salem
Image credit: Unsplash
Salem is the capital of Oregon and one of the state's best vacation destinations. Nestled in the Willamette Valley, the city is rich with outdoor activities, diverse cuisine, and sites reflecting Oregon's history.
The Deepwood Estate, a mansion built in 1893, runs tours that share early Salem history. Explore the surrounding gardens at Deepwood or walk the many paths in Bush's Pasture Park to discover their lush plant life. The Willamette River that runs through Salem is a gorgeous spot to fish, kayak, or board the historic Willamette Queen steamboat for a dinner cruise.
Salem's charming downtown overflows with local coffee shops, cafés, and restaurants serving fresh fare and the best wines from the Willamette Valley. The Saturday Farmers Market near the state capitol serves up fresh produce alongside live music and food trucks.
Many bus services operate in Salem, including Jefferson Lines, FlixBus, Shuttle Oregon, and the Amtrak Thruway. Amtrak's Coast Starlight line also stops in Salem, heading to LA and Seattle, as well as the Cascades, going to Vancouver and Eugene, Oregon.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Salem?
Main departure station: 500 13th St SE
There is one train station in Salem.
All train stations in Salem:
500 13th St SE
Where is the train station in Kelso?
Main arrival station: 501 S First Ave
Kelso has one train station.
Train stations in Kelso:
501 S First Ave
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