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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Portage to Staples. The train trip from Portage to Staples is usually about 7 hours and 46 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 325 mi (523 km) |
| Fastest train | 7h 46m |
| Lowest price | €45.23 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Portage to Staples?
Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Portage to Staples. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 7h 46m | €45.23 |
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Portage and Staples is approximately 325 miles, or 523 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 7 hours and 46 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.
Tuesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Portage to Staples. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Tuesday 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 Portage at 18:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 18:00. 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 Portage twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Staples with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Staples to Portage.
City Information
Station Information
Where is the train station in Portage?
Main departure station: 400 W Oneida St
There is one train station in Portage.
All train stations in Portage:
400 W Oneida St
Where is the train station in Staples?
Main arrival station: First Ave NE and Fourth St NE
Staples has one train station.
Train stations in Staples:
First Ave NE and Fourth St NE
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Need a return trip from Staples to Portage?
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