If you’re interested in exploring the U.S. by train, Amtrak serves 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 aren’t currently included on the Amtrak map, and two 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. As an island state in the middle of the Pacific, Hawaii can’t connect 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 has no Amtrak or VIA Rail service, passenger trains still operate.
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. Without connecting passenger train lines, rail service is impractical right now.
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 With Limited Amtrak Service
Amtrak provides limited service in certain states because of factors such as route frequency, station availability, political considerations, and limited geographic coverage.
- Arkansas: This state offers limited train service on the Texas Eagle, with stops in Little Rock and a few other locations.
- Delaware: The Northeast Corridor serves the state, including cities such as Wilmington and Newark.
- Kentucky: The Cardinal serves the State three times a week, and City of New Orleans routes provide limited station access.
- Mississippi: The City of New Orleans serves the state, though it has only a few limited stations.
- Montana: The Empire Builder runs along the state’s northern edge.
- Nebraska: The California Zephyr serves southern Nebraska.
- New Hampshire: The Downeaster serves 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: The Northeast Regional and Acela serve it, stopping only in Providence and Kingston.
- Vermont: The Ethan Allen Express and the Vermonter serve it.
- West Virginia: Two trains serve it, the Cardinal (three times a week) and the Floridian (daily), both with limited stops.
If you plan to visit these areas by train, check nearby major hubs and consider 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—you can still 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 works especially well for destinations like Alaska or Hawaii.
For 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. These tracks may also not meet the standards required for passenger trains. In some cases, tracks may already exist but need significant upgrades to safely and efficiently support passenger service.
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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