Trains from Sacramento to Denver
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Trip Summary
There are 5 daily trains from Sacramento to Denver. Traveling by train from Sacramento to Denver usually takes around 35 hours and 26 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak California Zephyr train can make the trip in 30 hours and 29 minutes.
| Distance | 887 mi (1427 km) |
| Fastest train | 30h 29m |
| Lowest price | $113.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Sacramento to Denver?
In the last month, $190.80 was the average price of a train ticket from Sacramento to Denver. Tickets are generally somewhat expensive for this particular train route, which is to be expected given the long distance. You can expect to find tickets at that price or lower if you book your trip at least 28 days in advance. Otherwise, expect to pay around $90.47 more than that for a same-day booking.
Average prices by travel date
Over the next 30 days, the average cost of a one-way train trip from Sacramento to Denver will vary between $155 and $289. Planning a train trip to Denver within the upcoming week? The cheapest train ticket you can find from Sacramento over the next 7 days is $173. Make sure to book your trip as soon as possible as train fares tend to go up as you get closer to your travel date.
Monthly average prices
If you are trying to decide when to travel from Sacramento to Denver by train so you can score the best possible deal, your best bet would be to plan your trip for November. That’s when the average price for a train ticket is expected to be just $140 – the lowest of the year.
Alternatively, if you plan to travel from Sacramento to Denver in March, expect to spend more on your train trip, as the average ticket price usually surges to $303 at that time of year. However, if you book your trip ahead of time, you have a high chance of scoring a ticket at a lower price.
Prices as travel date approaches
If you want to score the best deal, you should plan to book your train trip online on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time. If you do that, your train ticket to Denver from Sacramento will be about $90.47 cheaper compared to what you would pay if you book at the last minute.
Which train should you take from Sacramento to Denver?
2 train services operate from Sacramento to Denver. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 4 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 1d 14h 19m | $253.91 |
| Amtrak California Zephyr | 1 | 1d 6h 30m | $232.33 |
Amtrak
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 Sacramento to Denver every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $148.
Amtrak California Zephyr
Amtrak’s California Zephyr travels over 2,400 miles to connect Chicago to the San Francisco area. The full journey takes over 50 hours, so many passengers upgrade to a sleeper cabin for added privacy and comfort. The Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes, and the sightseer lounge’s panoramic windows offer the best views of the Rockies, the Sierra Nevadas, and the Great Salt Lake along the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel by train from Sacramento to Denver during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.
Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.
Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.
Can you take a train all the way from Sacramento to Denver?
How long is the train journey from Sacramento to Denver?
The distance between Sacramento and Denver is approximately 887 miles, or 1427 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 35 hours and 26 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 30 hours and 29 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.
When are trains the most crowded?
Wednesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Sacramento to Denver. 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.
When are the first and last trains of the day?
The earliest train departs Sacramento at 1:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 11:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Is there a direct train from Sacramento to Denver?
There are 5 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Sacramento to Denver. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Denver to Sacramento.
City Information
Sacramento
As the long-held capital city of California, Sacramento has a rich and vibrant history that is reflected in its historic buildings and quarters. The Old Sacramento Waterfront quarter is the best place to explore the city’s rich heritage. Boasting ages-old constructions and a quaint vibe that is reminiscent of the Wild West, the area allows visitors to travel back in time and relive the Gold Rush era. Among the most interesting destinations in the area is the California State Museum, located at the northern edge of the quarter. It offers numerous restored locomotives as well as exhibitions on the United States’ westward expansion. If history is not really your thing, then the Midtown quarter, which boasts a vibrant and expanding art scene, will be a great alternative.
Sacramento is famous for its vast tracts of farmland, so it makes sense that the best dishes are the ones made from locally-grown produce. Among the best places to try out homemade dishes are The Firehouse and The Kitchen. For a bit of an Asian taste, visit Mikuni in Midtown Sacramento.
The busiest bus station in Sacramento is located right in the heart of the city and offers bus service to Portland, Reno, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, among many other places. The main Amtrak train station is the nearby Sacramento Valley Station, which also serves the Gold Line of the local transit light rail. The principal regional airport is the Sacramento International Airport, located 10 miles northwest of Downtown.
Denver
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Denver is the capital of Colorado, as well as the most populous city in the state. With buildings dating back to the 19th century, Denver is considered one of the most exemplary cities of the Old West era in the United States.
Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it a preferred destination for young travelers seeking the thrill of the slopes during the day and the vibrant nightlife activities only an urban setting can provide. In fact, Denver is among the biggest party cities in the U.S. and one of the craft beer capitals in the country. In addition, thanks to the diverse local crowd, Denver’s restaurant scene offers top-notch options from various world cuisines.
If you’re looking for a more quiet time during your stay, head to one of the many unique museums in town such as the Denver Art Museum, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Arts, or the Molly Brown House Museum. Craving a feast to the eyes and some fresh air? Check out the spectacular Denver Botanic Gardens.
As the biggest city in the Mountain states and a top Colorado destination, Denver is a busy travel hub. Even though the Denver airport is on the city’s outskirts, it is still easily accessible. If you are traveling to Denver by bus or train, you’ll be conveniently dropped off at Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver from where you can easily get anywhere in the city.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Sacramento?
Image credit: SPUR
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St
Diridon Station opened in 1935 with architecture inspired by the Italian Renaissance, and today is a vital part of Silicon Valley’s transportation system. Diridon Station connects Amtrak train service to local commuter service like the Caltrain and VTA Light Rail. The station is also a major hub for bus transit on Amtrak Thruway and Greyhound buses. With paid parking onsite, bicycle racks, and accessible entrances, travelers can easily reach the station from nearby downtown San Jose. As a bonus, food trucks frequently set up outside the station to provide delicious cheap eats for passengers.
All train stations in Sacramento:
Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St
Valley Station - 401 I St
Union Station
601 Truxtun Ave - Transit Station
3750 Empire Ave
Santa Fe Depot - 1050 Kettner Blvd
Reg Transp Ctr - 1000 E Santa Ana Blvd
1301 W 11th St
King St Station - 303 S Jackson St
Union Depot
Sunset Transit Center/TriMet Station
Glendale Transp Ctr - 400 W Cerritos Ave
Anaheim Stadium Parking - 2626 E Katella Ave
Union Station
Amtrak Klamath Fls
Where is the train station in Denver?
Image credit: Unsplash
Main arrival station: Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street
Denver’s Union Station first opened in 1881, and houses some of the city’s best shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. There is even a seasonal farmers market at the station! But first and foremost, Union Station is the primary transport hub for Denver. The station is served by Amtrak trains, and intercity buses operated by Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines and Express Arrow. From Union Station, travelers can also easily access Denver International Airport on the A Line commuter rail.
All train stations in Denver:
Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street
Need a return trip from Denver to Sacramento?
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