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Cheap train tickets from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe

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Fresno to South Lake Tahoe Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

2 trains operate daily from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe. The train trip from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe is usually about 6 hours and 27 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 6 hours and 18 minutes.

Distance152 mi (245 km)
Fastest train6h 18m
Lowest price$60.00
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines1

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What is the price of a train ticket from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe?

In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe was $60.00. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to South Lake Tahoe if you book your train tickets at least 13 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $9.33.

Monthly avg. prices

$75$60$45$30$15JFMAMJJASOND
Ticket prices for the train from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in October when the average ticket price is only $55. If you're thinking of traveling from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $60 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.

Which train should you take from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Fresno to South Lake Tahoe. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak26h 28m$65.67
  • 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 Fresno to South Lake Tahoe every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $58.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe

While the train is the main method of transportation from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe, it will only take you part of the way there. Please note that part of your trip will be on a different vehicle, most commonly a bus or express shuttle.

The distance between Fresno and South Lake Tahoe is approximately 152 miles, or 245 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 27 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 18 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 departing from Fresno to South Lake Tahoe tend to have the most passengers on Thursday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Thursday. 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 Friday as the least number of people tend to travel then.

The earliest train departs Fresno at 6:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 6:00am. 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 Fresno 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 South Lake Tahoe to Fresno.

City Information

Fresno

Situated close to the center of California, Fresno’s location makes it the perfect hub for travelers who wish to explore the state, but it also has enough attractions on its own to keep visitors interested. One of the city’s most unique destinations is the Forestiere Underground Gardens. Built by a Sicilian immigrant, the gardens stay below the ground level so that citrus trees could grow, making it a unique sight that will capture the heart of nature lovers. Fresno has recently gone through a lot of changes in the field of agriculture, and the city’s love for homegrown produce is now one of its attractions. As you explore the city, don’t hesitate to make a slight detour to Riverdance Farm, a local organic farm where you can pick ripened blueberries and cherries to your heart’s content. For fans of cultural activities, the Fresno Art Museum offers unique artworks created mostly by local artists.

Fresno restaurants are famous for their fresh homegrown produce, and Sam’s Italian Deli & Market is where you can try local staples. If you want to cook yourself, Fresno Farmers’ Market will be a great choice.

Fresno’s main bus and train station is the Santa Fe Passenger Depot located at 2650 Tulare St. From there, you can take buses from various carriers or hop on a train on Amtrak’s San Joaquins line. The Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the city’s main airport and it is located not too far from the city center.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Fresno?

Santa Fe Station - 2650 Tulare St  - FNOAMT-0

Image credit: Ron Reiring

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Santa Fe Station - 2650 Tulare St  - FNOAMT-1

Image credit: Mattias Thorslund

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Main departure station: Santa Fe Station - 2650 Tulare St

The Santa Fe Station is a historic train station and transportation hub in Fresno. The station opened in 1899 and was originally owned by the Santa Fe Railway, hence the misleading “Santa Fe” name for a station in Fresno. Passengers can board the Amtrak San Joaquins train to Oakland, Sacramento, or Bakersfield from this station, and bus service from Amtrak Thruway and Jefferson Lines also stops at this location. The Santa Fe station is just steps away from Fresno’s City Hall, the Meux Home Museum, and the Fresno Convention Center, making this station a convenient entry point to Fresno.

All train stations in Fresno:

  • Santa Fe Station - 2650 Tulare St

Where is the train station in South Lake Tahoe?

Main arrival station: Transp Ctr

South Lake Tahoe receives travelers from Fresno at its two active train stations.

All train stations in South Lake Tahoe:

  • Transp Ctr

  • South Y Transit Ctr - 1000 Emerald Bay Rd

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Need a return trip from South Lake Tahoe to Fresno?

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