City to city
Chicago to Salt Lake City by Train
You can travel direct from Chicago to Salt Lake City on the Amtrak California Zephyr, a journey that takes about 33 to 34 hours without any need to change trains.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California Zephyr | about 33 to 34 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
The trip from Chicago to Salt Lake City offers a long distance rail journey across the American Midwest and the Rocky Mountains. Passengers board the train in Illinois and cross several states before arriving in Utah.
Because the trip spans a full day and a half, booking a sleeper accommodation provides a comfortable way to make the overnight journey. Whether you are traveling for a vacation or just crossing the country, this route provides a relaxing alternative to flying or driving. You will spend one night on board the train.
Your train options
The California Zephyr operates daily in each direction as of 2026. The journey takes about 33 to 34 hours and requires one overnight on board.
Passengers can choose between standard Coach with reclining seats and leg rests, or upgrade to a private room. Sleeping options include the Superliner Roomette, Superliner Bedroom, Family Bedroom, and Accessible Bedroom. You can learn more about these choices in our guide to Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms. Choosing a sleeper provides privacy and a flat bed for the long night between the Midwest and the Rockies.
Passengers in sleeping cars have their meals included in the Dining car. Coach passengers can purchase food in the Sightseer Lounge car or bring their own snacks. If you plan to travel in Coach, you might want to review our tips on sleeping in coach overnight.
The journey
The route from Chicago to Omaha passes through the farmland of Illinois and Iowa. You will cross the Mississippi River at Burlington. Much of the Nebraska section runs at night on the westbound schedule.
The train reaches Denver the next morning and begins a major climb into the foothills through a long series of short tunnels. It then passes under the Continental Divide through the Moffat Tunnel, which is about 6.2 miles long.
Between Granby and Glenwood Springs, the tracks follow the Colorado River canyons, including Byers Canyon, Gore Canyon, Red Canyon, and Glenwood Canyon. Much of this area is far from any road. After Grand Junction, the train enters the Utah desert. You will see the Ruby and Westwater canyon area and the Book Cliffs before crossing Soldier Summit and descending to Provo.
The stations
Your trip begins at Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just west of the Chicago River. The station opened in 1925 and features the classic Beaux Arts Great Hall. It serves as the hub for most western long distance trains. Premium passengers can use the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. Connecting Metra trains, buses, and the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop are nearby.
You will arrive at the Salt Lake City station, situated at the Salt Lake Central intermodal hub west of downtown. This station connects with TRAX light rail and FrontRunner commuter trains. The California Zephyr usually calls here late at night in both directions.
Tips
- Check track work alerts before travel because work in the Rockies occasionally causes bus substitutions.
- Read our guide for first time on Amtrak to prepare for the long journey.
- Bring a blanket or extra layers if you choose to sleep in a Coach seat.
- Book early to secure a Superliner Roomette or Bedroom since sleeper space is limited.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Chicago and Salt Lake City?
No, you do not need to change trains. The California Zephyr provides a direct service between Chicago and Salt Lake City, stopping at several stations along the way without requiring passengers to switch to another route.
Are meals included on the train to Salt Lake City?
Meals in the Dining car are included in the ticket price for passengers traveling in a sleeping car accommodation, such as a Roomette or Bedroom. Passengers traveling in Coach must purchase their own food from the Sightseer Lounge car or bring their own meals.