If you're craving an unforgettable rail adventure through the American Southwest, the Amtrak Southwest Chief offers one of the most scenic routes in the United States. Traveling from Los Angeles Union Station to Albuquerque Station takes approximately 16 hours, giving you ample time to relax, enjoy the views, and experience the changing landscapes without the stress of driving or flying.
Why Choose the Southwest Chief?Operated by Amtrak, the Southwest Chief is a long-distance passenger train that connects Chicago and Los Angeles while passing through iconic Western landscapes. The segment between LA and Albuquerque covers roughly 666 miles and includes several stops.
This route is perfect for travelers who want to slow down and soak in the beauty of the West. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a comfortable alternative to air travel, the Southwest Chief delivers a memorable experience.
Stops Along the Route (Los Angeles to Albuquerque)Here are the main stops on the eastbound journey from LA to Albuquerque (times are approximate and vary by schedule):
The train passes through dramatic changes in terrain, including the Mojave Desert, high deserts, and mountain passes.Fun FactThe Southwest Chief between LA and Albuquerque passes through the Mojave Desert, across the Colorado River, and over the Continental Divide near Gallup, NM, following the historic Route 66 corridor.
The full Southwest Chief route sees significant ridership, with the train carrying around 200K+ passengers per year on average in recent years (full route figures hover between 260K–294K annually).Practical Tips for Your Trip
Travel Essentials & RecommendationsTo make your journey even more comfortable, check out these travel must-haves in my Amazon Influencer shop. Using my links helps support my content at no extra cost to you — thank you!
Final ThoughtsThe Southwest Chief isn’t just transportation—it’s an adventure that lets you truly see and appreciate the vastness and beauty of the American Southwest. From the bustling Los Angeles Union Station to the vibrant culture of Albuquerque, this journey creates memories that last a lifetime.
Have you ridden any part of the Southwest Chief? Which stop excited you the most? Share your experiences in the comments!
This route is perfect for travelers who want to slow down and soak in the beauty of the West. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a comfortable alternative to air travel, the Southwest Chief delivers a memorable experience.
- Los Angeles, CA – Union Station (LAX): Your starting point. This historic landmark is a beautiful Art Deco and Mission Revival style station, conveniently located near downtown LA with easy connections to buses, light rail, and more.
- Glendale, CA (GDL): A quick suburban stop in the vibrant city of Glendale, known for its Armenian community, shopping, and proximity to Griffith Park.
- Burbank, CA (BUR): Serves the entertainment capital area, near Warner Bros. Studios and Burbank Airport.
- Barstow, CA – Harvey House Railroad Depot (BAR): Enter the Mojave Desert here. The historic Harvey House is a classic Route 66 landmark with retro charm.
- Kingman, AZ: Gateway to the historic Route 66, with access to the colorful landscapes of western Arizona.
- Flagstaff, AZ: A highlight stop surrounded by pine forests. Popular for connections to the Grand Canyon, Sedona's red rocks, and outdoor adventures. (Note: Depending on direction and exact timing, this is a key scenic hub.)
- Winslow, AZ: Famous for the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy” and the historic La Posada Hotel. Standin’ on the Corner Park is a fun photo spot.
- Gallup, NM: Known as the “Heart of Indian Country,” this stop offers a taste of Navajo culture, trading posts, and stunning red rock formations. The train crosses the Continental Divide nearby.
- Albuquerque, NM – Alvarado Transportation Center (ABQ): Your destination. A vibrant city famous for hot air balloons, Old Town, Southwest cuisine, and Sandia Peak Tramway.
- Duration: About 16 hours from Los Angeles Union Station to Albuquerque Station.
- Booking: Reserve early through Amtrak, especially for popular seasons or sleeper accommodations.
- Onboard Experience: Enjoy comfortable seating, dining options, and the chance to meet fellow travelers. The Sightseer Lounge car is ideal for the ever-changing scenery.
My Amazon recommendation list for this trip
From comfortable travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones to portable chargers and Route 66-inspired guides, I’ve curated the best picks for scenic train trips.Shop Travel Gear for Your Southwest Chief Adventure →Have you ridden any part of the Southwest Chief? Which stop excited you the most? Share your experiences in the comments!
Route Details
Not this time
Los Angeles Union Station
Los Angeles
16h 0m
Albuquerque Station
Albuquerque
OperatorAmtrak
RouteSouthwest Chief
Stops8 stops
Ridership200K passengers/year
Fun Fact
The Southwest Chief between LA and Albuquerque passes through the Mojave Desert, across the Colorado River, and over the Continental Divide near Gallup, NM, following the historic Route 66 corridor.
Route lessons
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USA
Los Angeles Union Station to Albuquerque Station was the full endpoint pair.
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16h 0m
8 stops plus the ridership clue pointed toward this service.
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Amtrak
The route is listed as Southwest Chief.
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