City to city
Seattle to Vancouver by train
You can travel direct from Washington to British Columbia on the Amtrak Cascades, a scenic daytime trip that takes about 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes without requiring any transfers.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Cascades | about 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes | Several trains a day Seattle to Portland, fewer to Eugene and Vancouver | No | No, direct |
Riding the train between Seattle and Vancouver connects two major Pacific Northwest cities along a coastal corridor. The route crosses the international border, requiring passengers to carry appropriate travel documents. Because the trip is relatively short, it serves as a practical alternative to driving or flying. The service is supported by Washington and Oregon, and new trainsets are being introduced as of 2026. Whether you are commuting for business or planning a holiday, the railway provides a comfortable environment to relax. You can read our crossing the US and Canada border by train guide to prepare for the customs process.
Your train options
The only direct service on this route is the Amtrak Cascades, which takes about 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes. As of 2026, there are several trains a day operating out of Seattle, though fewer continue all the way north to Vancouver. This is a daytime service, so there is no overnight travel on this trip. Passengers can choose between Coach and Business Class seating. Both classes provide comfortable seats with large windows, while Business Class offers a bit more legroom and priority boarding. A Bistro car is available for all passengers to purchase food and drinks during the journey. Since there is only one type of train serving this corridor, your choice comes down to picking a departure time that fits your schedule and deciding if the Business Class upgrade is necessary for your comfort.
The journey
The ride north from Seattle offers excellent water views, provided you travel during daylight hours. After departing the city, the train runs along the Puget Sound shoreline. Passengers can look out over the water as the train stops in Edmonds, Everett and Mount Vernon. The section around Chuckanut Drive and Samish Bay, just south of Bellingham, is especially notable. North of Bellingham, the route continues past Mud Bay and Boundary Bay before crossing the international border. Finally, the train crosses the Fraser River as it approaches the final destination. Because the trip takes about 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes, most departures occur during the day, allowing you to see the coastal landscape clearly. During winter months, late afternoon departures might mean traveling in the dark for the final portion of the trip.
The stations
Your trip begins at Seattle station, known as King Street Station, which opened in 1906. Its ornate ceiling was restored in 2013. The station sits next to Pioneer Square and the Chinatown International District, with Link light rail available at the nearby International District station. King Street Station also serves the Empire Builder and Coast Starlight. You will arrive at Vancouver station, officially Pacific Central Station, a 1919 building that handles VIA Rail, Amtrak Cascades and intercity buses. The Main Street-Science World SkyTrain station is located just across the park. If you travel south later, US preclearance for Cascades passengers happens at this station. The Rocky Mountaineer uses its own separate station nearby.
Tips
- Review our Amtrak and VIA booking tips to secure the best fares for your travel dates.
- Remember to bring a valid passport or enhanced ID for the border crossing into Canada.
- Arrive early at the station to allow time for ticket checks and boarding procedures.
- Visit the Bistro car early in the journey to grab a snack before the busiest periods.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to change trains between Seattle and Vancouver?
No, every train listed is direct. The Amtrak Cascades runs continuously from Seattle to Vancouver, so you can stay in your seat for the entire journey without worrying about connections.
Is there an overnight train from Seattle to Vancouver?
There is no overnight travel on this trip. The Amtrak Cascades operates as a daytime service, taking about 4 hours to 4 hours 30 minutes to complete the route. You will arrive on the same day you depart.
Where do I clear customs on this route?
When traveling north to Canada, border officials typically process passengers upon arrival at Vancouver Pacific Central Station. For the return trip south, US preclearance happens at the Vancouver station before you board the train.