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Trip Summary
There are 2 daily trains from Chico to Arcata. Traveling by train from Chico to Arcata usually takes around 13 hours and 6 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 12 hours and 50 minutes.
| Distance | 142 mi (229 km) |
| Fastest train | 12h 50m |
| Lowest price | US$64.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Chico to Arcata?
In the last month, US$71.00 was the average price of a train ticket from Chico to Arcata. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 9 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around US$4.00 more than that for a same-day booking.
Monthly average prices
Ticket prices for the train from Chico to Arcata often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only US$67,
If you're thinking of traveling from Chico to Arcata during October, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of US$81 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in October, is to book your trip well in advance.
Which train should you take from Chico to Arcata?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chico to Arcata. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 13h 6m | US$77.15 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Chico to Arcata every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$64.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Chico and Arcata is approximately 142 miles, or 229 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 6 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 hours and 50 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.
Wednesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Chico to Arcata. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Wednesday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Tuesday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Chico at 04:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 07:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Chico twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. 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 change 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 Arcata to Chico.
City Information
Chico
Chico is the largest city in California north of Sacramento, as well as the cultural and economic heart of the northern Sacramento Valley. In addition, the city is a college town, home to California State University.
Chico is a California city famed for its world-famous golf course, wooded paths popular with hikers and environmental enthusiasts, and the massive Bidwell Park. If you're visiting Chico, you can't miss Bidwell Park, which spans 2500 acres of natural beauty.
Chico has the most fantastic steakhouse at the 5th Street Steakhouse. The highly recommended Unwined Kitchen & Bar is only two blocks away, serving the best bar food and drinks. There is no shortage of nightlife in Chico, the best cocktail bar (Duffy's Tavern) is only 100m away from central Chico, and if you are craving a club, The Beach Nightclub is the best option.
Amtrak has one of the major train stations in Chico, with service to Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Seattle, and more. For buses, Jefferson Lines offers routes from cities like Seattle, Phoenix, Sacramento to Chico.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chico?
Main departure station: 450 Orange St
There is one train station in Chico.
All train stations in Chico:
450 Orange St
Where is the train station in Arcata?
Main arrival station: Humboldt State University
Arcata receives travelers from Chico at its two active train stations.
Train stations in Arcata:
Humboldt State University
925 E St Transit Ctr
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