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Trip Summary
You can pick from 2 daily train trips between La Crosse and Wenatchee. The average train journey from La Crosse to Wenatchee takes 39 hours and 16 minutes, but some Amtrak Empire Builder train trips are as short as 36 hours and 36 minutes.
| Distance | 1419 mi (2283 km) |
| Fastest train | 36h 36m |
| Lowest price | $291.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
Which train should you take from La Crosse to Wenatchee?
2 train services operate from La Crosse to Wenatchee. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 1d 17h 56m | $489.00 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 1 | 1d 12h 36m | $291.00 |
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 1 Amtrak trains from La Crosse to Wenatchee every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $489.
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 La Crosse and Wenatchee is approximately 1419 miles, or 2283 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 39 hours and 16 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 36 hours and 36 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 La Crosse to Wenatchee tend to have the most passengers on Monday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Monday. 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 Monday as the least number of people tend to travel then.
The earliest train departs La Crosse at 8:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00pm. 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 La Crosse twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Wenatchee faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Wenatchee to La Crosse.
City Information
La Crosse
A busy college town blessed with lush and beautiful green zones, La Crosse is one of the best places to just chill out and unwind. The city's star attraction is the Grandad Bluff, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the Mississippi River. Hiking up the hill will certainly be a challenge, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile. While staying in the city, don't miss out on the chance to go on a cruise aboard the La Crosse Queen, a replica paddle steamer, and unwind while enjoying the sunset. For some family fun, head over to the Children's Museum of La Crosse.
La Crosse does have a pretty reputable food scene, with a strong focus on beers and cheese curds. For an upscale dining experience with the best local dishes, The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern is a local favorite that has a stellar reputation. Or head to the Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery for a combination of good foods and drinks.
La Crosse is easily accessible by bus or train, and regional flights operate out of the La Crosse Municipal Airport.
Wenatchee
Image credit: Unsplash
Wenatchee is a central Washington city located at the Cascade Mountains' foot. It's popularly known as the Apple Capital of the World since it has many orchards with crisp, delicious fruit.
Wenatchee has a mix of museums for historical spots like the Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center and recreational and outdoor centers like the Wenatchee Confluence State Park and Walla Walla Point Park. You can check out the Two Rivers Art Gallery for art lovers or visit the Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort for skiing and lifts. Outdoor enthusiasts can check out the different outdoor trails, hiking trails, natural areas, and different trailheads.
Wenatchee is home to different wineries due to the many vineyards, like the Stemilt Creek Winery and Chateau Faire Le Pont Winery. Different famous breweries, brewpubs, bars, and taprooms enhance the nightlife and dining experience. You can visit bars, shops, clubs, restaurants, the Ohme Gardens, and more when you visit downtown Wenatchee.
You can easily access Wenatchee by train and bus from neighboring cities. The Amtrak serves the city by train via the Amtrak Empire Builder, while Amtrak Thruway and FlixBus provide bus services.
Station Information
Where is the train station in La Crosse?
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain departure station: 601 St Andrew St
The La Crosse Amtrak Station is located in the city's Lower Northside neighborhood at 601 St Andrew St. The station was built in 1926, and even though it has undergone several renovations, many of the original elements – including the marble surfaces and wooden ticket counters – have been preserved. In fact, the station is on the National Register of Historic Places. The station serves as the only stop in La Crosse for Amtrak's Empire Builder train line. At the station, travelers can find a spacious indoor waiting area, as well as an information desk with brochures and guides for local attractions. In addition, since the station is located in a residential neighborhood, various restaurants and bars are in close proximity.
All train stations in La Crosse:
601 St Andrew St
Where is the train station in Wenatchee?
Main arrival station: Wenatchee Train Station
Wenatchee receives travelers from La Crosse at its two active train stations.
All train stations in Wenatchee:
Wenatchee Train Station
Link Transit Columbia Station
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Need a return trip from Wenatchee to La Crosse?
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