Cheap train tickets from Salem to Kelso

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Trip Summary

There are usually 6 daily train trips available from Salem to Kelso. Traveling by train from Salem to Kelso usually takes 3 hours and 17 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Cascades train can make the trip in 2 hours and 35 minutes.

Distance
83 mi (134 km)
Fastest train
2h 35m
Lowest price
NOK 245.53
Trains per day
6
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
3

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4.8 Rating

5k Reviews

4.5 Rating

4.8k Reviews

Chiku

Salem to Kelso Train Schedule

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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Salem to Kelso (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

5.0

5.0

Robert

August 10, 2024 - Visiting friends

Amtrak Cascades
Pros: Staff person was cheerful and helpful with heavy luggage since Salem to Kelso doesn't use check-in for luggage. Glad to have luggage assistance and peace of mind that my luggage was closeby and secure. Cons: In my three Amtrak rides between Salem and Seattle, there were persistent delays for each trip. A previous Seattle to Salem trip via wanderu.com included a switch from train to Cascades bus at Portland Union Station, but a delay of over one hour on a 95 degree day caused me to almost miss the bus connection due to the freight car blockage and delay coupled with lag time to get luggage from checkin to manually carry over to the Cascades bus. Cascades driver was patient to wait however, and very helpful in loading luggage to lower compartments. Thanks. Tips: I liked wanderu.com to book Amtrak tickets, and the Train -- Bus transfer they offered gives more access to cities south of Portland. I will use them again!

5.0

Kimberly

January 22, 2021 - Visiting family

Amtrak Cascades
Pros: Everything Cons: Nothing

What is the price of a train ticket from Salem to Kelso?

In the last month, train tickets from Salem to Kelso cost about NOK 255 when booked at the cheapest time. This is basically as cheap as train fares can get. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 2 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around NOK 103.88 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Salem to Kelso by month

NOK 525NOK 420NOK 315NOK 210NOK 105JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Salem to Kelso 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 NOK 312. If you're thinking of traveling from Salem to Kelso during August, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of NOK 510 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in August, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

NOK 375NOK 300NOK 225NOK 150NOK 75

By booking your train trip from Salem to Kelso on Wanderu at least 2 days ahead of time, you can save about NOK 103.88 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Salem to Kelso?

There are 3 train lines with service from Salem to Kelso. Amtrak is the most popular choice with travelers, offering scheduled service on 4 trains each day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak43h 36mNOK 354.13
Amtrak Cascades12h 35mNOK 254.97
Amtrak Coast Starlight12h 44mNOK 377.74
  • The Cascades is a passenger train service operated by Amtrak that runs between Vancouver, BC and Eugene, OR. Not only is the Cascades one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the trains also offer free WiFi, power outlets, reclining seats, and refreshments available for purchase. There is an average of 1 trip on the Amtrak Cascades from Salem to Kelso, and the average train ticket costs NOK 254.97.

  • The Amtrak Coast Starlight is a service provided by Amtrak that connects Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles on the US Pacific coast. The full journey winds through the Cascade Mountains, perfectly clipped vineyards, and dense coastal forest, allowing passengers to get a glimpse of the US west coast while enjoying air-conditioned cars, power outlets, complimentary onboard WiFi, and snacks.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Salem to Kelso

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Salem to Kelso. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.

There are 6 scheduled trains on most days. Of these, 2 are direct connections to Kelso. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice. You can also take a train for your return trip from Kelso to Salem.

Trains per day

6

Direct trains

2

The distance between Salem and Kelso is approximately 83 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 17 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 35 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

Distance (mi)

83

Distance (km)

134

The earliest train departs Salem at 6:35 AM while the last train of the day leaves at 5:41 PM. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

6:35am

Last train

5:41pm

Trains from Salem to Kelso are the most crowded on Friday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Friday

Least crowded

Friday

City Information

Salem

Salem, OR, US - SAM-0

Salem is the capital of Oregon and one of the state's best vacation destinations. Nestled in the Willamette Valley, the city is rich with outdoor activities, diverse cuisine, and sites reflecting Oregon's history.

The Deepwood Estate, a mansion built in 1893, runs tours that share early Salem history. Explore the surrounding gardens at Deepwood or walk the many paths in Bush's Pasture Park to discover their lush plant life. The Willamette River that runs through Salem is a gorgeous spot to fish, kayak, or board the historic Willamette Queen steamboat for a dinner cruise.

Salem's charming downtown overflows with local coffee shops, cafés, and restaurants serving fresh fare and the best wines from the Willamette Valley. The Saturday Farmers Market near the state capitol serves up fresh produce alongside live music and food trucks.

Many bus services operate in Salem, including Jefferson Lines, FlixBus, Shuttle Oregon, and the Amtrak Thruway. Amtrak's Coast Starlight line also stops in Salem, heading to LA and Seattle, as well as the Cascades, going to Vancouver and Eugene, Oregon.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Salem?

Main departure station: 500 13th St SE

There is one train station in Salem.

All train stations in Salem:

  • 500 13th St SE

Where is the train station in Kelso?

Main arrival station: 501 S First Ave

Kelso has one train station.

All train stations in Kelso:

  • 501 S First Ave

Need a return trip from Kelso to Salem?

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