If you’re interested in exploring the U.S. by train, Amtrak offers service to over 500 destinations across 46 states. However, four states without Amtrak service. It’s surprising for both new and experienced travelers to learn that a few states are not currently included on the Amtrak map, two of which have legitimate reasons.
Which states lack Amtrak service, and why? I even cover states with limited Amtrak service. Let’s dive in.
The Four States Without Amtrak Service
Currently, four U.S. states have no Amtrak passenger rail service.
- Hawaii
- Alaska
- South Dakota
- Wyoming
Here’s a closer look at each one:
Hawaii
I believe this is evident. Hawaii, being an island state in the middle of the Pacific, cannot be connected to the continental U.S. rail network.
Although you won’t find Amtrak service here, Oahu has introduced a new elevated rail system, Skyline, which is gradually expanding.
Alaska
Although Alaska does not have Amtrak or VIA Rail service, passenger trains still operate in Alaska.
The Alaska Railroad offers scenic routes between Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks. While it is not part of the Amtrak system, the journey is worthwhile if you are traveling that far north.
South Dakota
South Dakota currently lacks Amtrak service; the last passenger train departed in 1970, before Amtrak was established. The absence of connecting passenger train lines renders rail service impractical at this time.
If you are planning to visit Mount Rushmore or the Black Hills, your best options are to drive or fly to Rapid City International Airport.
Wyoming
Amtrak previously served Wyoming via the former San Francisco Zephyr route, which later became the California Zephyr. However, this route changed in the 1980s and now bypasses the state entirely.
Currently, the California Zephyr travels south through Colorado. For train enthusiasts visiting Wyoming, the only option is to drive to train stations in neighboring states, such as Colorado or Utah.
States Limited Amtrak Service
Amtrak provides limited service in certain states due to factors such as route frequency, station availability, political considerations, and restricted geographic coverage.
- Arkansas: This state offers limited train service on the Texas Eagle, with stops in Little Rock and a few other locations.
- Delaware: Served exclusively by the Northeast Corridor, which includes cities such as Wilmington and Newark.
- Kentucky: Served by the Cardinal, three times a week, and City of New Orleans routes, with limited station access.
- Mississippi: Served by the City of New Orleans, though it has only a few limited stations.
- Montana: The Empire Builder runs along the northern edge of the state.
- Nebraska: Served by the California Zephyr, which travels through the southern region of the state.
- New Hampshire: Served by the Downeaster in the far southern part of the state.
- North Dakota: The Empire Builder serves several small towns in northern North Dakota.
- Oklahoma: It has one daily train, the Heartland Flyer, which connects Oklahoma City to Fort Worth, Texas.
- Rhode Island: Served by the Northeast Regional and Acela, stopping only in Providence and Kingston.
- Vermont: Served by both the Ethan Allen Express and the Vermonter.
- West Virginia: Served by two trains: the Cardinal, three times a week, and the Floridian (daily), both with limited stops.
If you plan to visit these areas by train, consider checking nearby major hubs and exploring rental-car or bus options to enhance your travel experience.
What If I’m Visiting States Without Amtrak Service?
If you’re planning to visit one of these four states without Amtrak, don’t worry—there are still ways to include train travel in your trip.
- Take Amtrak to a nearby state, then rent a car or take a bus to continue your journey.
- When available, use Amtrak’s Thruway Bus service to ensure a smooth connection.
- Combine Amtrak with a flight; this is particularly effective for destinations like Alaska or Hawaii.
An example: You could take the California Zephyr to Denver and then drive into southern Wyoming for a national park adventure.
Why Doesn’t Amtrak Serve All 50 States?
The short answer? Four major factors influence where Amtrak trains go:
- Infrastructure
- Geography
- Demand
- Politics
Amtrak primarily uses freight rail lines on most routes, but not all lines align with passenger destinations. Additionally, these tracks may not meet the standards required for passenger trains. In some instances, tracks may already exist but need significant upgrades to safely and efficiently accommodate passenger services.
Low population density, limited political support, and funding challenges can hinder Amtrak’s ability to operate in certain regions. Without local or federal backing, establishing new services becomes unfeasible. Amtrak Connecting Service can provide the necessary assistance.
But There’s Hope!
For those of us who love train travel, there’s good news: Amtrak is expanding! In recent years, it has introduced new routes, including the Borealis and the Mardi Gras Express. The company is also considering adding even more routes in the coming decade.
Who knows what the future may hold? With growing interest in sustainable travel and federal investments in passenger rail, Amtrak may expand into some of today’s underserved states.
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Final Thoughts on States Without Amtrak Service
Just because some states don’t have Amtrak service doesn’t mean your journey has to be delayed. It can be enjoyable to hop off the train and get creative with your travel plans! For many travelers, an Amtrak ride is just the start of a larger adventure.
If you’re excited to explore a state without Amtrak service, consider it an excellent opportunity for a hybrid trip that combines trains, rental cars, buses, or even flights to reach your final destination.
I hope you plan a fun and exciting trip to a state without Amtrak service. If you’re new to travel or prefer not to plan longer trips, consider a travel agency specializing in rail adventures.
Happy Planning and Safe Travels!
Kev
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