Introduction to the Amtrak California Zephyr Train
California Zephyr is an intercity rail service offered by Amtrak. It first started service in 1983. The California Zephyr is responsible for taking over 290,000 passengers per year between Illinois and California.
The California Zephyr operates along the Western United States between Chicago, Illinois, and Emeryville, California.
What to Expect on Amtrak California Zephyr?
The California Zephyr runs a total of 2438 miles between its starting point, Chicago, Illinois, and its point of termination, Emeryville, California.
This intercity rail travels at an average speed of 55 miles per hour. The overall trip from start to finish takes about 52 hours. The California Zephyr runs trips daily and 7 trips per week.
Accommodations provided by the California Zephyr
California Zephyr offers seating for 294 passengers. Since this train is mostly for leisurely travel, there are no business class seats.
This train has a roomette, bedroom, bedroom suite, and family bedroom sleeper car due to its long trip duration.
The California Zephyr provides food options in the dining car & cafe car.
What are the Major Stops on the California Zephyr?
The California Zephyr starts in Chicago, Illinois, and terminates at Emeryville, California. In between, California Zephyr makes the following stop at these major locations.
- Chicago, Illinois – Chicago Union Station – This is the starting point for the California Zephyr service.
- Ottumwa, Iowa
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Denver, Colorado
- Grand Junction, Colorado
- Provo, Utah
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- Reno, Nevada
- Sacramento, California
- Emeryville, California – this is where the California Zephyr service terminates.
How Much Does it Cost to Ride on the California Zephyr?
A standard fare onboard the California Zephyr will cost you between $141.00 and $1,052.00, depending on which type of seat you decide to purchase.
Sources
https://www.amtrak.com/routes/california-zephyr-train
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Zephyr
