East to West by Train with Amtrak USA Rail Pass: DC to California

I jumped on the chance to travel the entire US from east to west by train when the Amtrak USA Rail Pass was on sale. I wanted to travel the whole country, which is why I chose the Capital Limited and California Zephyr train lines.

Let me show you why these train lines are a good choice to travel the across the US by train from east to west (or west to east, depending where you start).

In this post, I’m highlighting the itinerary I made traveling the USA from east to west with the Amtrak USA Rail Pass from Washington, DC to San Francisco, California.

I did this roundtrip from Chicago (so stopping in Chicago a total of 4 times). Since many of you probably aren’t from Chicago, I’ve tweaked my itinerary to fit a one-way train trip from east to west. If you do the train journey roundtrip, get off at half of these 10 stops on the way there, and the other half on the way back.

And of course, feel free to adjust this according to where you’re starting and stopping in the country.

I’ll include POI, how many nights to spend in each place, accommodation (close to the train stations!) and the amount of time between each stop (assuming no delays) while traveling east to west with Amtrak rail pass.

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How the Amtrak Rail Pass works

-You get 10 segments (every time you get off a train, even for a transfer, that’s one segment).

-You can only use those segments on two train lines, meaning you can go roundtrip between two cities, twice.

(For example, I did Chicago–Washington, DC with Capital Limited and Chicago–San Francisco with California Zephyr.)

-Your pass is valid for 30 days after your first trip.

-You can only book Saver or Value tickets (not Flexible).

Is the Amtrak Rail Pass worth it?

Definitely. Even more so for me, because I got it on sale for $299. But the normal price of $499 is still going to save you money. I calculated how much I would have spent on my train trip with the Rail Pass, and assuming I bought Saver tickets (the cheapest option, but usually sold out), and it would have cost me a minimum of $700. Not a bad discount!

So definitely get the Rail Pass if you want to do the Capital Limited and California Zephyr, and hop off to explore are you go, to save a few hundred dollars!

How long should I spend in each place I get off the Amtrak train with my USA Rail Pass?

I spent a day (roughly 24 hours) in each of these places except Washington, DC; Chicago, IL; Truckee, CA; and San Francisco, CA.

Some of the places I’ll suggest stopping at don’t have too much to do, especially without a car, but all have plenty to do for just one day. Even though you can’t do much, you’ll very much appreciate being able to stretch your legs and sleep in a real bed!

Which Amtrak train lines should I take to travel the USA east to west/ west to east?

I recommend (and personally chose) the Capital Limited and California Zephyr. It’s a total of roughly 69 hours of train time (about 18 hours on Capital Limited and 51 hours on California Zephyr), so I definitely recommend getting off to relax and explore off the rails.

Keep reading for my suggestions on where to get off, and see my more in-depth guide for the California Zephyr.

How to Use Your 10 Amtrak Rail Pass Segments: East to West

1. Washington, DC

Why to Stop in Washington

It’s the start/end of the Capital Limited line, and there’s no better place to explore the whole US than by starting your train trip in the nation’s capital.

You’ll find world class museums, like the famous Smithsonian Museum and the National Gallery of Art. Also, no visit to DC is complete without sightseeing government buildings like the White House and U.S. State Capital. Be aware that you need to book tours way in advance, but they’re still nice to see from the outside.

If you like to write while traveling, make sure to check out my Writer’s Travel Guide to Washington, DC!

How Many Nights to Spend in Washington, DC

As many as you can spare! Especially if you love museums, because you could spend weeks exploring those.

I’d say three days is a good average (I personally spent five days, but I spent time writing).

Where to Stay in Washington

I stayed at The Generator Hotel and I absolutely loved it (great common areas, outdoor pool, pleasant workers, dining options, comfortable). I had to take the Metro from the train station to get there, but there’s a Metro station near the Generator. You can choose from a dorm room if you’re on a budget, or a private room if that’s not your thing.

2. Pittsburgh, PA

Washington to Pittsburgh Time on Train: 7 hours 43 minutes

Why to Stop in Pittsburgh

I wasn’t quite sure if using a Rail Pass segment on this city was a good idea until I arrived in Pittsburgh. I was so pleasantly surprised!

The downtown area boasts a gorgeous blend of old and new architecture, and it was very walkable. The Fort Pitt Museum really offers visitors an appreciation of the city’s history, and you can also witness how the rail itself helped develop Pittsburgh. The Monongahela incline can’t be missed; great views of the city!

There are lots of great dining options in the downtown area for the foodies, and the three rivers of the city are great spots to take a walk to burn off those calories and stretch your legs before getting on another long train journey.

How Many Nights to Spend in Pittsburgh

One night was enough for me. Since you’re traveling by train and won’t have a car, you’ll mostly be confined to the downtown area, and I think I saw everything in one day.

Where to Stay in Pittsburgh

I can’t recommend Even Hotel enough. It’s PERFECT accommodation to stay in while traveling to Pittsburgh by train. It’s within walking distance of the train station, but what made it so perfect after sitting on the train for hours is that you get a little “gym” in the privacy of your room! They have a normal communal gym too, but the rooms are equipped with things like a yoga mat, block, resistance bands and more!

Also, I was allowed to hang out in the trendy lobby until my late-night train, which was much appreciated.

3. Chicago, IL

Pittsburgh to Chicago Time on Train: 9 hours 46 minutes

Why to Stop in Chicago

Well, you have to, because it’s the end of the Capital Limited line and the start of the California Zephyr line! Chicago is the start of many train lines, so if you’re traveling east to west across the country with Amtrak Rail Pass, you’ll likely end up in Chicago for a transfer.

But definitely spend at least a day in Chicago, because it’s the best city! (I’m from Chicago; can you tell?)

Even though it’s a huge city, the tourist attractions are pretty well connected with public transportation (CTA), so you’ll be fine seeing everything without a car. In fact, I recommend NOT visiting Chicago by car. Parking is expensive and traffic can be confusing to first-time visitors, so I think traveling to Chicago by train is actually the best option.

Numerous world-class museums (most notably the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum and Museum of Science and Industry), awesome city views (Skydeck or Signature Lounge are good options for first-timers) and Lake Michigan activities (city beaches, Lakefront Trail and cruises) are some of the main draws of Chicago.

If you visit in the summer, don’t miss my ultimate summer guide to Chicago.

How Many Nights to Spend in Chicago

I’d say at least two. There is so much to do in Chicago, and having lived most my life here, even I haven’t done it all! It’s one of the biggest cities in the US, and certainly the biggest from all the stops on this east to west Amtrak train journey, so one night probably won’t be enough.

Where to Stay in Chicago

W Chicago is just a few blocks from the train station and in a great location to explore the tourist attractions of Chicago.

4. Denver, CO

Chicago to Denver Time on Train: 18 hours 15 minutes

Why to Stop in Denver

The Mile High City owes its prosperity largely to the rail industry, so what better way to arrive than by train?

There is much to explore in the downtown area, like breweries (so many!), parks, a riverfront trail to stretch your legs on (so nice after the long train ride you’ve just accomplished) and great dining options.

It’s transformed into a very hip and young town in recent years, so it has a great atmosphere!

How Many Nights to Spend in Denver

One night is plenty, I think.

Again, you’ll be confined mostly to downtown because you won’t have a car, so going hiking somewhere nearby won’t really be an option. Don’t worry, though. Tomorrow you’ll be going deep into the Rockies, where you’ll have plenty of hiking options!

Where to Stay in Denver

If you want to stay right in the train station, you can! The Crawford Hotel is right in the station, so you don’t have to leave the station to get to your comfy hotel room.

For a budget option, Fish Hostel is within walking distance of the station.

5. Glenwood Springs, CO

Denver to Glenwood Springs Time on Train: 5 hours 41 minutes

Why to Stop in Glenwood Springs

Relaxation, adventure and views. Glenwood Springs is a place that has something for everyone! From several hot springs, spas, hiking choices and a mountaintop adventure park, everyone of all ages would love Glenwood Springs. There are also excellent and diverse dining options in town.

How Many Nights to Spend in Glenwood Springs

One or two nights. I was quite pressed for time because my train was delayed a few hours getting there, so I wish I spent an extra night in Glenwood Springs. I wouldn’t have minded another spa day!

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

I chose Starlight Lodge because it was the best budget option within walking distance to the train station. A bit outdated, but clean and with pleasant owners, so I’d highly recommend it.

6. Green River, UT

Glenwood Springs to Green River Time on Train: 4 hours 5 minutes

Why to Stop in Green River

Don’t stop here if you’re a go-go-go person who only wants to see the famous sights. (I’d recommend switching this stop for Sacramento later on instead.) The fact is, the reason why I chose Green River as a stop on my east to west USA train journey is precisely because there isn’t much to do.

I wanted to stop somewhere “middle of nowhere” to see a small community in the US that most people pass by in search of the bigger and better. But there was still enough to do to make it much worth a stop.

The John Wesley Powell River Museum is a fantastic history museum where I learned so much about the area. You’ll find random points of attraction like the Largest Watermelon and A Pile of Big Rocks. My favorite part though was walking down Main Street and really seeing the town, taking in its history entwined in its present. There’s a short river walk along the Green River, but in the desert heat you won’t mind how short it is.

Many people might not enjoy this, but I loved it. (Again, switch this stop for Sacramento instead if you’re not a fan of “nothing to do” places.)

How Many Nights to Spend in Green River

One. Unless you book a white-water rafting trip, which would take a day, or even more if you choose a multi-day trip. This company operates out of Green River, so book in advance. (I didn’t do it, but the company has great reviews.)

Where to Stay in Green River

I stayed at Motel 6, not realizing how far it was from the station (other side of town, about half hour walk). I still really liked it because the rooms were clean, I was allowed to check in early, it had great views and was just across the street from the Powell Museum. Also, it was next to what I think is the best restaurant in town: Tamarisk.

For something closer to the station though, choose either Budget Inn if you’re on a budget or the new Holiday Inn.

7. Helper, UT

Green River to Helper Time on Train: 1 hour 22 minutes

Why Stop in Helper

It’s an adorable, historic small town. Stroll down the main street and soak in the slow life. Check out the historic Conoco gas station (perfect for a photoshoot) and enjoy some dining in one of the restaurants in this charming little town. Also, learn some history at the Western Mining and Railroad Museum.

Get your exercise and stretch your legs on the river walk along the river running along the town.

Helper is overall a great place to slow down and step back in time.

How Many Nights to Spend in Helper

One night. It’s a quaint but tiny town, so you really don’t need more than 24 hours to explore. Again, lots to do in the area, but without a car you can’t see it. (Which is okay! You’ll see so much from the train.)

Where to Stay in Helper

Castle Gate RV Park is, as far as I can tell, the only option within walking distance from the train station. It has cabins available, so no worries with needing to travel with your camping gear!

8. Salt Lake City, UT

Helper to Salt Lake City Time on Train: 3 hours 45 minutes

Why to Stop in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is one of the biggest cities along the California Zephyr line, so definitely stop here if you’re more of an urban lover. But nature lovers, this is for you too! In addition to the attractions of a big city (lots of food, shopping and sightseeing options) there are also hiking options nearby. Also, since you won’t have a car, there are some tour options you can take to explore the area.

How Many Nights to Spend in Salt Lake City

One or two nights. Depends on how much you want to hike or if you want to take any tours.

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

The train will arrive around midnight if you’re traveling east to west and 3 a.m. if you’re traveling west to east, so you definitely need a hotel close to the station. It’s no fun wandering a new city at night. Residence Inn by Marriott is close to the station, and the kitchen is great if you’re tired of eating out by this point in your trip.

9. Truckee, CA

Salt Lake City to Truckee Time on Train: 11 hours 7 minutes

Why to Stop in Truckee

Where to start? Let’s start with the town itself. It’s so cute! The main street is lined with quaint boutique stores and excellent restaurants, and it’s a great place to just wander. Stop by the town’s two tiny museums: the Old Jailhouse and the Railroad Museum.

But don’t spend too much time here, because there is much to do in the area. Truckee offers free TART buses to the main POI nearby. Go to Kings Beach or Crystal Bay at Lake Tahoe, the Donner Memorial Park (where the famous Donner party got stranded) or ski resorts (activities year-round).

How Many Nights to Spend in Truckee

At least two nights, but more if you love nature and have the time. I’d recommend exploring Donner Lake and Truckee one day, and then heading to Lake Tahoe the next day for hiking, swimming and boating.

Where to Stay in Truckee

I stayed at Redlight, which is such a quirky and unique place. It has dorm rooms and private rooms, a kitchen and a very cool bar. If hostels aren’t your thing, try the Marriott in town.

10. San Francisco, CA

Truckee to San Francisco Time on Train: 6 hours 33 minutes

Why to Stop in San Francisco

Well, if you haven’t been convinced yet, I don’t know if I can convince you. San Francisco is an awesome city, and it lives up to its hype! And depending on whether you’re going east or west with Amtrak Rail Pass, it’s also the start or end of the California Zephyr line. Kind of.

The line actually ends in Emeryville, but it’s just across a bridge from San Francisco and easily reached by public transportation or Amtrak transfer bus.

Plenty of places to stretch your legs after being on the train for so long: bike on the Golden Gate Bridge, or check out the amazing hiking on the other side of it in the Marin Headlands. Check out some of the great museums or explore the city’s literary history and do your own writing (Writer’s Travel Guide to San Francisco). Explore Chinatown, go on a boat cruise, enjoy diverse and amazing restaurants, and do a daytrip tour. The options are endless!

How Many Nights to Spend in San Francisco

At least two nights. More if you can/want! I did three, and I kind of wish I stayed more.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

I stayed at Adelaide Hostel, which beyond being cheap also had a great vibe. I met lots of people at breakfast, which was free! The staff couldn’t make us breakfast due to Covid, but they did provide things like eggs, fruit and pancake mix for us to make our own breakfast.

I’d definitely stay in the area this hostel is, since it’s fairly near where the transfer bus drops you off and where you can take the public transportation to and from Emeryville (where the California Zephyr line ends).

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So that’s how I did it! East to West by train using the Amtrak USA Rail Pass on the Capital Limited and California Zephyr train lines.

Would you travel from Washington, DC to San Francisco by train? And would you rather get a sleeper car and go all the way, or would you hop off to explore like I did?

If you want to hop off and explore the US from east to west, I’d definitely recommend buying the Amtrak USA Rail Pass. It’s a great deal for this journey!