Taking the Train to Truckee

by Jennifer Jeffcoat

Jennifer writes for Tahoe Exclusive, sharing travel tips, top to-dos, and the best places to stay when you vacation in North Lake Tahoe. 

Did you know you don’t need a car to get to Lake Tahoe? That’s right! Thanks to the California Zephyr Amtrak line, you can catch a train to Truckee, CA, every day and skip the traffic on I-80! If you’ve ever wondered how to pull off a car-free trip to Tahoe, we’ve got all the details on this popular route right here. Check them out and start planning your next getaway today!

In This Article:

• Is There a Train from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe?
• How Often Does the Train to Truckee Run?
• How Much Does the Train from San Francisco to Truckee Cost?
• How Long Is the Train Ride to Truckee?
• What Amenities Are on the Train to Truckee?
• What Can I Take on the Train to Truckee, CA?
• Where to Stay in Truckee
• FAQs

Is There a Train from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe?

The California Zephyr Amtrak line runs from San Francisco all the way to Chicago, stopping in Truckee along the way. Technically, the San Francisco line departs from the Emeryville Station about 16 minutes from downtown San Francisco. 

• Emeryville Station: 5885 Horton Street, Emeryville, CA

How Often Does the Train to Truckee Run?

The California Zephyr train to Truckee runs every day, all year long, with one eastbound and one westbound train traveling to/from San Francisco and Chicago. The full route takes a little more than 50 hours. 

Delays in Chicago on the westbound route can cause compounding issues for the trip back from Lake Tahoe to San Francisco. If you’re traveling on a tight schedule, it may be best to catch the Amtrak Thruway Bus to the Sacramento station and then transfer to the Capitol Corridor Train for the last leg, versus waiting on the westbound Zephyr.

How Much Does the Train from San Francisco to Truckee Cost?

Tickets for the California Zephyr train to Lake Tahoe run between $50 to upwards of $200, depending on the type of fare you purchase: coach or a private room.

Direct routes on the Zephyr are closer to $80 for a coach seat, but if you’re willing to split time on the Capitol Corridor, you can get a ticket for closer to $50.

Specific travel days and times can affect prices.

How Long is the Train Ride to Truckee?

Starting in San Francisco, the ride to Truckee, whether you take the direct Zephyr route or the Capitol Corridor, will take you around 5 and a half hours.

What Amenities Are on the Train to Truckee?

You’ll find several amenities aboard the California Zephyr train to Tahoe.

• Checked baggage service (may vary by the specific train)
• Sightseeing observation car with large windows
• Meals – each route offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Riders enjoy a traditional dining service with hot meals, as well as café service for lighter options and snacks
• Pet-Friendly – Small dogs and cats (under 20 pounds) are allowed on trips up to 7 hours along most routes (restrictions apply)
• Baggage and Gear: Skis and snowboards count as a carry-on as long as they’re under 50 pounds and 75 to 76 inches. Longer or heavier gear may be checked along with other baggage. *Fees may apply. You can also bring a bike if you’re visiting for mountain bike season!

What Can I Take on the Train to Truckee, CA?

Guests are allowed one personal item (25 pounds or less), two carry-on items (50 pounds or less each), and two additional checked bags ($20 each). Learn More at Amtrak.com/baggage

Watch: Amtrak Baggage Policy

Guests are also allowed to bring their own food and drinks aboard the California Zephyr. Keep in mind, though, personnel are not allowed to handle your food, so they can’t heat it up or store it for you.

Important notes:

• You can bring alcohol onboard, but you may only consume it in a private sleeping car. Otherwise, you may purchase cocktails in the dining, lounge, and café cars.
• Service and food are sometimes delayed, or supplies may run out. If you have a medical condition that requires specific food or meals at specific times, it’s recommended you bring your own.
• See the Full Amtrak Food Policy

Where to Stay in Truckee

Featured Property: Trailside Townhome, Northstar 14044

Now that you know how to take the train to Truckee, the only thing standing between you and your car-free getaway is finding a dream vacation rental. At Tahoe Exclusive, we’ve got a stunning inventory with something for every size group.

Browse our full collection and find everything from ski-in/ski-out homes and pet-friendly stays to properties near great mountain biking trails and those with soothing hot tubs so you can rest your bones after every adventure. When you’re ready, remember to book directly with us so you can skip the third-party fees from Airbnb and Vrbo. Our local team is standing by, ready to assist you with everything from check-in to check-out.

Show Me All Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Train to Lake Tahoe

Can you take the train to Lake Tahoe?

Yes, the California Zephyr Amtrak train runs every day from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

Is there a train from Sacramento to Lake Tahoe?

Yes. The Sacramento to Truckee train is the California Zephyr line, which runs through Sacramento on its way to Chicago, making stops in Truckee along the way.