Vermont is one of the best-served rural states in the Amtrak system, featuring 14 stations and two daily routes. With discounted in-state fares, the Green Mountain State offers a convenient way to explore its charming small towns, ski resorts, and beautiful landscapes by train. Traveling by Amtrak in Vermont is an excellent way to discover all that the state has to offer.
I have traveled with Amtrak more than 800 times since 2012, covering over 200,000 miles across its network. Through my journeys, I have gained valuable insights that can help first-time and occasional riders make their trips smoother and more enjoyable. This guide provides all the essential information you need to get started with Amtrak travel to and within Vermont.
Overview: Amtrak in Vermont
Vermont is a small state that provides statewide intercity passenger rail service, granting access to both the eastern and western regions.
Here’s what Amtrak service in Vermont looks like:
- 14 Amtrak stations
- There are two daily train routes: the Vermonter and the Ethan Allen Express.
- Both routes operate entirely during daylight hours within Vermont, and there are no overnight sleeper trains. Some arrivals and departures occur early in the morning or late in the evening.
- Discounted in-state fares through a state-supported fare program
- Direct connections to New York City, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and beyond
The Vermonter operates daily between Washington, D.C., and St. Albans, serving nine stations along Vermont’s eastern side. The Ethan Allen Express also runs daily, connecting New York City to Burlington and making five stops along the state’s western side. Together, these two routes offer convenient access to various Vermont communities without a car.
Amtrak in Vermont: Routes
Vermont has two daily Amtrak routes. Below, you can learn more about each one.
The Vermonter
- Route: Washington, D.C. – Philadelphia – New York – New Haven – Springfield, MA – Brattleboro – St. Albans, VT
- Travel time: Approximately 13 hours end-to-end (Washington to St. Albans)
- Vermont stops: Brattleboro, Bellows Falls, Windsor–Mt. Ascutney, White River Junction, Randolph, Montpelier-Berlin, Waterbury-Stowe, Essex Junction, and St. Albans
The Vermonter is a daytime-only train, making it a great option for enjoying Vermont’s beautiful scenery from your seat. The northbound train arrives in Vermont late in the morning and reaches St. Albans by early evening. In contrast, the southbound train departs St. Albans in the morning and leaves Vermont by early afternoon. For the best daylight views of Vermont’s landscapes, the southbound journey generally provides the most scenic experience.
The Vermonter will celebrate 30 years of service in 2025. It replaced the overnight Montrealer, which used to operate all the way to Montreal. Long-term plans call for extending the Vermonter back into Canada, but the project is still in the planning and development stages.
The Ethan Allen Express
- Route: New York City (Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall) – Albany – Saratoga Springs – Castleton – Rutland – Middlebury – Ferrisburgh-Vergennes – Burlington
- Frequency: Daily service in both directions
- Travel time: About 7½ hours (New York City to Burlington)
Vermont stops:
Castleton, Rutland, Middlebury, Ferrisburgh-Vergennes, and Burlington
The Ethan Allen Express travels through New York’s Hudson River Valley and continues east into the Green Mountains of Vermont. In July 2022, an extension of Burlington’s rail line restored intercity passenger rail service to the city for the first time since the early 1950s, significantly increasing ridership on the route.
The northbound train leaves New York in the early afternoon and arrives in Burlington by late evening. Meanwhile, the southbound train departs Burlington in the morning and reaches New York by late afternoon. Like the Vermonter, this route operates during the day and does not offer sleeping accommodations.
Accommodations and Onboard Services for Regional Amtrak Trains in Vermont.
These trains operate with similar equipment and provide the same accommodations and services.
Accommodations:
- Coach class (reserved seating)
- Business class (wider leather seating; fares are often fully refundable before departure)
Onboard services:
- Café car
- Free Wi-Fi (can be spotty north of Rutland)
- Power outlets – for greater convenience, bring an extension cord.
- Bike carry-on service (reservation required; limited space)
Vermonter Stations (Eastern Corridor)
Many of these stations are unstaffed, and some are just platforms without station buildings.
Brattleboro (BRA)
- Address: 10 Vernon Road, Brattleboro, VT 05301
- Station type: Unstaffed. Enclosed waiting area.
Brattleboro is the first stop in Vermont for the northbound Vermonter train and one of the state’s busiest stations. The waiting room is located on the ground floor of the former Union Station, while the upper levels house the Brattleboro Museum and Art Center.
Big news: In June 2024, Amtrak started construction on a new station in Brattleboro, which will feature Vermont’s first full-level boarding platform. When completed, expected in 2025 or 2026, the station will allow passengers to board without using steps or lifts.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- Wheelchair accessible platform using a lift
- No checked baggage service
- No ticket office (purchase online, via the app, or call 1-800-USA-RAIL)
- Parking available (check for construction impacts)
Brattleboro’s downtown is within walking distance of the station and offers restaurants, shops, and galleries. This is a great station for a day trip or as a base for exploring southeastern Vermont. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is available in town with pickup service if you want to explore further afield.
- Address: 54 Depot Street, Bellows Falls, VT 05101
- Station type: Unstaffed station with an enclosed waiting area.
Bellows Falls is a small village on the Connecticut River, famous for its historic downtown and the impressive waterfall. The train station is a short walk from the village center.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- No restrooms
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- No checked baggage service
- No ticket office
Windsor-Mt. Ascutney (WNM)
- Address: 26 Depot Avenue, Windsor, VT 05089
- Station type: Unstaffed platform stop.
Windsor is a small town that provides access to the Mt. Ascutney area. It is often referred to as the “Birthplace of Vermont” because the Vermont Constitution was signed here in 1777. From the station, you can cross the Connecticut River into New Hampshire using one of the longest covered wooden bridges in the United States.
Station amenities:
- Platform with shelter
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- No restrooms
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
White River Junction (WRJ)
- Address: 102 Railroad Row, White River Junction, VT 05001
- Station type: Unstaffed station.
White River Junction is one of Vermont’s key rail hubs and among the busiest stations in the state. The station is located at the junction of the White and Connecticut rivers and has a rich railroading history. Today, it serves as a gateway to the Upper Valley region, Dartmouth College (just across the river in Hanover, New Hampshire), and the Killington ski resort, located approximately 40 miles to the west.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- Water fountain
- Restrooms
- Free parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Walkable to downtown restaurants, galleries, and shops
White River Junction features a vibrant arts community and a walkable downtown. It is one of the best stations in Vermont for a layover or day trip, with plenty of activities within walking distance.
Randolph (RPH)
- Address: Depot Square, South Main and Salisbury Streets, Randolph, VT 05060
- Station type: Platform-only stop
Randolph is a small town in central Vermont, with a walkable downtown near the train station. It is home to Vermont Technical College and the Chandler Music Hall. The station offers convenient access for exploring the central Green Mountains.
Station amenities:
- No shelter
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Montpelier-Berlin (MPR)
- Address: 297 Junction Road, Berlin, VT 05602
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with waiting room.
This station serves Montpelier, Vermont’s capital city, although it is located in the neighboring town of Berlin, approximately three miles from downtown Montpelier. Don’t let the distance deter you, for the station is easily accessible, and local transit or rideshare services can take you into the capital. Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the United States, but it boasts a vibrant food and culture scene.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- No restrooms
- Free parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Waterbury-Stowe (WAB)
- Address: US Highway 2 & Park Row, Waterbury, VT 05676
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with waiting room.
Waterbury-Stowe is a popular stop, particularly for skiers heading to Stowe Mountain Resort, located about 10 miles to the north. The station is situated in downtown Waterbury, which has evolved into a dining and brewery destination. Nearby attractions include the Ben & Jerry’s factory, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, and several craft breweries. This location is one of the most frequented stops on the Vermonter route.
Station amenities:
- Waiting room
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- Walking distance to restaurants, breweries, and shops
- No restrooms at the station
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Essex Junction (ESX)
- Address: 29 Railroad Avenue, Essex Junction, VT 05452
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with waiting room.
Essex Junction is one of the busiest Amtrak stations in Vermont and serves as a convenient gateway to the Burlington area for Vermonter passengers. The station building, constructed in 1959, is located in the heart of Essex Junction’s village center. Burlington is approximately five miles to the west. The Ethan Allen Express does not serve Burlington at the same station. If your destination is Burlington and you’re traveling from New York City, the Ethan Allen Express is the more direct option.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- No restrooms
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
St. Albans (SAB)
- Address: 40 Federal Street, St. Albans, VT 05478
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with a waiting room.
St. Albans is the northern terminus of the Vermonter and is located approximately 10 miles from the Canadian border. This small city features a charming downtown area with restaurants and shops within walking distance. The Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, a 26-mile paved path, is also accessible from the town. If the Vermonter is eventually extended to Montreal, St. Albans will serve as an intermediate stop rather than the line’s last stop.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- Restrooms
- Parking
- Vending machines
- Wheelchair accessible
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Ethan Allen Express Stations (Western Corridor)
Many of these stations are unstaffed, and some are just platforms without station buildings.
Castleton (CNV)
- Address: 266 Main Street, Castleton, VT 05735
- Station type: Unstaffed station with a waiting room.
Castleton is the first stop in Vermont on the northbound Ethan Allen Express. This small college town is home to Castleton University, and the train station replaces an earlier stop in nearby Fair Haven. While the station area offers limited services, the town itself is pleasant and worth a short visit.
Station amenities:
- Waiting room with accessible platform
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- Restrooms at the station
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Rutland – James M. Jeffords Station (RUD)
- Address: 25 Evelyn Street, Rutland, VT 05701
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with waiting room.
Rutland is the second-largest city in Vermont and was originally the northern terminus of the Ethan Allen Express before the line was extended to Burlington. The train station is named after former U.S. SenUS James M. Jeffords. Rutland serves as a gateway to the Killington ski resort, about 20 miles to the east, and to Pico Mountain. The city features a walkable downtown area with a variety of restaurants, shops, and Vermont’s largest year-round farmers’ market.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- Restrooms
- Payphones
- Parking
- Wheelchair accessible
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Rutland serves as a key connection point. Vermont Translines operates bus services between Rutland and Manchester, Bennington, and Albany, which can be booked as Amtrak Thruway connections.
Middlebury (MBY)
- Address: 30 Middle Seymour Street, Middlebury, VT 05753
- Station type: Unstaffed platform stop
Middlebury’s train station opened in 2022 as part of the Ethan Allen Express Burlington extension. It is located in the heart of this charming college town, which is home to Middlebury College. The station was constructed alongside a new rail tunnel through downtown, replacing aging bridges. Visitors will find excellent restaurants, art galleries, and nature trails within walking distance of the station.
Station amenities:
- Platform with shelter
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- Walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants
- No restrooms at the station
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Ferrisburgh-Vergennes (VRN)
- Address: 49 Park Lane, Ferrisburgh, VT 05456
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with a waiting room*
This station opened in 2022 as part of the Burlington extension and serves the Vergennes area. It features a restored historic depot building. Vergennes is known as the smallest city in the United States. The station is located at the Ferrisburgh Park and Ride, so you will need a car or a rideshare to reach most destinations from there.
Station amenities:
- *Waiting room is not ADA accessible
- Restored depot building
- The platform is wheelchair accessible
- No restrooms
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Burlington – Union Station (BTN)
- Address: 1 Main St, Burlington, VT 05401
- Station type: Unstaffed station building with a waiting room
Burlington is the largest city in Vermont and serves as the northern terminus of the Ethan Allen Express. Union Station is located on the waterfront of Lake Champlain, with the Church Street Marketplace—a four-block pedestrian shopping and dining district—just a short walk away. Burlington boasts a vibrant food scene, numerous craft breweries, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation on the lake and in the nearby mountains. The station underwent renovations in preparation for the 2022 service extension.
Station amenities:
- Enclosed waiting area
- Restrooms
- Parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- Walking distance to Church Street Marketplace, restaurants, and Lake Champlain waterfront
- No checked baggage
- No ticket office
Vermont’s Discounted In-State Fares
One of the best things about Amtrak in Vermont is the state-subsidized fare program. The Vermont Agency of Transportation partners with Amtrak to offer discounted fares for travel within the state:
- Vermonter: One-way fares between any stations in Vermont are no more than $18 (subject to change).
- Ethan Allen Express: No station fares exceed $17, except for Burlington and Ferrisburgh-Vergennes, which are capped at $23 and $21, respectively (subject to change).
These fares make train travel a competitive option compared to driving, especially when considering gas, tolls, and parking fees. It is one of the best in-state rail deals in the country.
Practical Tips for Using Amtrak in Vermont
Know Which Route You Need To Take Amtrak in Vermont
The Vermonter and the Ethan Allen Express serve different regions of Vermont. If you’re traveling to Stowe or Montpelier, you should take the Vermonter. For destinations like Burlington, Rutland, or Middlebury, the Ethan Allen Express is the better choice. Both routes connect through New York City, but they diverge afterward: the Vermonter travels through Connecticut and Massachusetts, while the Ethan Allen Express goes up the Hudson Valley, passing through Albany.
Plan for Rural Station Conditions
Many stations in Vermont are small and unstaffed; some are just platforms with shelters. It’s important to purchase your tickets in advance, either online or through the Amtrak app, since most stops don’t have ticket offices. If you’re arriving at a smaller station, arrange your ground transportation before your trip. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are limited in rural Vermont.
Vermont Translines Bus Connections
Vermont Translines offers two daily round-trip bus trips between Albany and Burlington, connecting with Amtrak trains at Albany-Rensselaer. These buses also serve Vermont towns without direct train service, including Bennington and Manchester. You can book these bus rides as Amtrak Thruway connections when you book your train ticket.
Fall Foliage Season
Vermont’s fall foliage season, which usually lasts from late September to mid-October, is one of the best times to ride either the Vermonter or the Ethan Allen Express. Both trains offer stunning views of autumn colors. Due to this season’s popularity, tickets can sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to book early. If you choose to ride the Vermonter, the southbound train provides the most daylight hours in Vermont for enjoying the fall foliage.
Ski Season Access
Vermont is one of the few states where major ski resorts are accessible by train. You can reach Stowe from the Waterbury-Stowe station on the Vermonter line. Killington can be accessed from either White River Junction (via the Vermonter) or Rutland (via the Ethan Allen Express). To get to Mount Snow, you can rent a car in Brattleboro.
Both routes permit carry-on ski equipment. In Vermont, checked baggage options are very limited and often unavailable at most stations, so travelers should plan to bring their skis and snowboards onboard.
Wi-Fi and Cell Service
Both trains provide Wi-Fi, but be prepared for it to be inconsistent once you reach rural Vermont. Cell service can also be unreliable in the mountains. It’s a good idea to download any entertainment, documents, or maps you might need before boarding. Honestly, this adds to the charm—put down your phone and enjoy the scenery!
Connections from Vermont
From the Vermonter:
The Vermonter provides direct service to several major cities, including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, Hartford, Springfield (MA), and New Haven.
At New York Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall, passengers can connect to nearly any Amtrak route in the Northeast. This transfer includes long-distance trains such as the Lake Shore Limited (to Chicago), the Cardinal, the Carolinian, and the Silver Service trains to Florida.
From the Ethan Allen Express:
The Ethan Allen Express offers direct service to New York City, with stops along the Hudson Valley and at Albany-Rensselaer.
In Albany, passengers can connect to several trains, including the Lake Shore Limited (to Chicago or Boston), the Maple Leaf (to Toronto), the Adirondack (to Montreal), and the Empire Service.
At New York Penn Station/Moynihan Train Hall, travelers can access the entire Amtrak network.
The Future of Amtrak in Vermont
Vermont is home to some exciting rail developments on the horizon. Plans are currently in place to extend the Vermonter rail service from St. Albans to Montreal, reestablishing a connection that has been absent since 1995. This project involves upgrading the tracks in southern Quebec and constructing a customs pre-clearance facility at Montreal’s Central Station. However, it is still in the planning stages.
There is also $500,000 in federal planning funds allocated for a potential new route connecting Manchester and Bennington to Burlington. Furthermore, Amtrak’s new Airo trainset will eventually replace the current equipment on both the Vermonter and Ethan Allen Express lines. These new trains will feature modern amenities, including panoramic windows, USB-C outlets, and improved Wi-Fi. However, Amtrak has not yet announced specific dates for the introduction of Airo service on Vermont routes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amtrak in Vermont
Can I take Amtrak to Burlington, Vermont?
Yes! The Ethan Allen Express offers daily service from New York City to Burlington. You can also reach Essex Junction, about 5 miles from Burlington, on the Vermonter from Washington, D.C.
Can I take Amtrak to Stowe, Vermont?
The closest Amtrak station to Stowe is Waterbury-Stowe on the Vermonter, about 10 miles from Stowe village. For the final leg of your journey, you will need a rental car, a taxi, or a rideshare.
Can I take Amtrak to Killington?
The nearest stations are Rutland (Ethan Allen Express, about 20 miles away) and White River Junction (Vermonter, about 40 miles away). Ground transportation is necessary from either station.
Is there a train from New York to Vermont?
Both the Vermonter and the Ethan Allen Express provide daily services from New York City to Vermont. The Ethan Allen Express offers a more direct route to western Vermont destinations, including Burlington and Rutland, with a travel time of approximately 7.5 hours to Burlington. In contrast, the Vermonter serves eastern Vermont and takes longer to reach its destinations. Additionally, the Vermonter provides connections to Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.
Does Amtrak go to Bennington or Manchester, Vermont?
Amtrak’s Thruway bus service, operated by Vermont Translines, connects both towns to Albany-Rensselaer, where passengers can board Amtrak trains. You can book these bus tickets alongside your Amtrak ticket.
Will Amtrak ever resume service from Vermont to Montreal?
Planning is in progress for an extension of the Vermonter from St. Albans to Montreal; however, no timeline for service restoration has been provided. Key challenges include the need for upgrades to cross-border infrastructure and the establishment of customs pre-clearance facilities.
The Bottom Line on Amtrak in Vermont
Vermont is one of the best-served rural states in the Amtrak system, considering its size. It has 14 train stations and offers two daily routes, both of which provide all-daylight service. There are also discounted in-state fares, making it an ideal destination for train travel. Travelers can enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the Northeast, whether they are planning a ski trip, a fall foliage excursion, or simply exploring charming New England towns without the hassle of driving. Amtrak in Vermont provides a convenient and scenic travel option.
The state is committed to enhancing its rail infrastructure. The Burlington extension, launched in 2022, demonstrated significant demand for passenger rail service in Vermont. Upgrades are currently in progress at the Brattleboro station, and there is potential for a future extension to Montreal. Overall, train travel in the Green Mountain State appears promising.
Safe Travels and Happy Planning!
Kev
The information in this post is based on what was available in March 2026. Please note that things can change at any time, and the station links go directly to Amtrak’s official pages.
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