Cheap train tickets from Chico to Arcata
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chico to Arcata. Traveling by train from Chico to Arcata usually takes 13 hours and 17 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 12 hours and 55 minutes.
| Distance | 142 mi (229 km) |
| Fastest train | 12h 55m |
| Lowest price | $75.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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 17m | $88.60 |
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 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $75.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chico to Arcata
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 17 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 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.
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 Saturday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Chico at 4:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 7:00am. 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.
All train stations in Arcata:
Humboldt State University
925 E St Transit Ctr
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Need a return trip from Arcata to Chico?
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