The easiest, most available, daily train trips are found on Amtrak. The renowned Coast Starlight takes riders from Los Angeles into the San Francisco Bay Area, inland to Sacramento, then due north past snow covered Mt. Shasta. The Starlight then turns west through deep coastal Redwood forests and rocky coastlines on its' way to Seattle. Dining cars, viewing cars and arcade game cars complete the experience.
The California Zephyr out of Oakland crosses the farmland heart of California into the Sierra Nevada mountains, then ends in Reno, Nevada. Bicyclists and surfers take their gear aboard the Pacific Surfliner and do the California coast thing between San Luis Obispo and San Diego. Hikers and other sightseers can take advantage of the Amtrak National Parks Program, while all passengers will benefit from its system-wide weekly special fares and Guest Rewards program.
Amtrak may be the Big Dog in California, but there are plenty of private tour train trips also. A rugged classic is the "Skunk Train", chugging from the Redwood Empire through the sheer coastal mountains to the logging town of Willits. One ways, round trips, shorter alternatives and seasonal variations are also possible.
Further east, the Wine Train, with its dining cars and moving wine cellars, takes passengers through the beautiful Napa Valley while serving the essence of California cuisine. Still further southeast, The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad gives you a great experience of the bygone days of the steam powered logging railroads.
California trains are modern and comfortable, with food service and sightseeing cars. However, since California has so many different climates, bring a jacket or sweater with you in case the night turns a bit cold. Carry cash for station vendors, bring something to read and stay aware of your belongings. Carry a few over-the-counter medications in your pocket.
Be prepared to present or input government-issued identity when you book train passage with Amtrak. Electrical outlets are by all Amtrak First Class and Business seats, and are available in many other sections of the train. Wi-Fi availability varies with the route.
Nearly all California train routes, tours and schedules are accessible on the Internet, including booking capability. If you love train travel, keep riding the rails by building a trip from California to the Canadian Rockies or south of the border to world famous Copper Canyon in Mexico.
