City to city
Los Angeles to Albuquerque by Train
You can travel directly from Los Angeles to Albuquerque on the Southwest Chief, an overnight train journey that takes about 16 to 17 hours to complete.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Chief | about 16 to 17 hours | Daily in each direction | Yes | No, direct |
Taking the train from Southern California to New Mexico offers a relaxing alternative to flying or driving. The route traces historic paths through the deserts and mountains of the American Southwest. Passengers can watch the landscape change from the comfort of a train car, avoiding highway traffic and airport security lines. This guide covers everything you need to know about the trip, including the train schedule, sleeping accommodations, and the scenery you will see along the way. Whether you are traveling for a vacation or visiting family, the rail journey provides a memorable experience.
Your train options
The Southwest Chief provides a direct connection between Los Angeles and Albuquerque. As of 2026, the train operates daily in each direction. The trip takes about 16 to 17 hours and involves traveling overnight. Passengers can choose from several classes of service. Budget travelers often opt for Coach, which features reclining seats and leg rests. For more comfort on the overnight journey, you can book a Superliner Roomette or a Superliner Bedroom. The train also offers a Family Bedroom and an Accessible Bedroom. Sleeper class passengers have meals included, but all travelers can access the Sightseer Lounge car and the Dining car. If you want to save money, read about sleeping in coach overnight. Choosing between coach and a private room depends entirely on your budget and how much you value a flat bed for the night.
The journey
The route from Los Angeles to Albuquerque crosses a variety of striking landscapes. Leaving the Los Angeles basin, the train climbs through Cajon Pass and enters the Mojave Desert. Depending on your direction of travel and the time of year, you may pass through some of these California sections in the dark. The train makes several stops in California, including Fullerton, Riverside, San Bernardino, Victorville, Barstow, and Needles. Entering Arizona, the route stops in Kingman, Williams, Flagstaff, and Winslow. Near Flagstaff, the scenery shifts to dense Ponderosa forest. As you continue into Arizona and New Mexico, you will see the Painted Desert area near Winslow and the red rock country of western New Mexico. The final stop before Albuquerque is Gallup. The exact scenery you see in daylight depends on the season and whether your train is running on schedule.
The stations
Your journey begins at Los Angeles Union Station, a landmark building that opened in 1939. The station features a mix of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture. It serves as a hub for the Pacific Surfliner and connects to Metro Rail lines, Metrolink commuter trains, and the FlyAway bus to LAX airport.
You will arrive at the Albuquerque Alvarado Transportation Center, located downtown. This station was also built in a Mission Revival style. The Southwest Chief has a longer stop here, and vendors sometimes sell crafts on the platform. You can also connect with New Mexico Rail Runner Express trains to Santa Fe.
Tips
- Book your tickets early to secure the best prices on sleeper accommodations.
- Bring a blanket or extra layers if you plan on sleeping in coach.
- Spend some time in the Sightseer Lounge car to enjoy panoramic views of the desert landscape.
- Review our first time on Amtrak guide before your departure.
Questions travellers ask
Do I have to change trains between Los Angeles and Albuquerque?
No, you do not need to change trains. Every train listed for this route is direct. The Southwest Chief travels all the way from Los Angeles to Albuquerque without requiring passengers to transfer.
Are there sleeping accommodations on the train to Albuquerque?
Yes, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeping options for the overnight journey. You can book a Superliner Roomette, a Superliner Bedroom, a Family Bedroom, or an Accessible Bedroom. These private rooms provide flat beds and include meals in the Dining car.