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Columbus to Detroit Lakes train

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Columbus - Detroit Lakes Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

You can pick from 2 daily train trips between Columbus and Detroit Lakes. The average train journey from Columbus to Detroit Lakes takes 9 hours and 11 minutes, though some trains might be a few minutes slower or faster.

Distance411 mi (661 km)
Fastest train9h 11m
Lowest price$104.00
Trains per day2
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Empire Builder
Train lines1

Which train should you take from Columbus to Detroit Lakes?

Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Columbus to Detroit Lakes. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak Empire Builder29h 11m$116.50
  • 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 Columbus and Detroit Lakes is approximately 411 miles, or 661 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 9 hours and 11 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.

On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Columbus to Detroit Lakes on Wednesday. Tickets for Wednesday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Wednesday. Wednesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.

The earliest train departs Columbus at 5:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 5:00pm. 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 Columbus twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Detroit Lakes 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 Detroit Lakes to Columbus.

City Information

Station Information

Where is the train station in Columbus?

Main departure station: 359 N Ludington St

There is one train station in Columbus.

All train stations in Columbus:

  • 359 N Ludington St

Where is the train station in Detroit Lakes?

Main arrival station: White Earth Transit Station

Detroit Lakes has one train station.

All train stations in Detroit Lakes:

  • White Earth Transit Station

Get around town with Moovit

Find the best way to get to and from any station in Detroit Lakes by public transit, courtesy of Moovit. Search now

Need a return trip from Detroit Lakes to Columbus?

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