Planning to visit Bellingham, Washington? Bellingham is nestled at the edge of the USA, bordering Canada. It has views of Bellingham Bay and Mt. Baker. Whether you’re taking the ferry from the Alaska Marine Highway, visiting Western Washington University, or enjoying the views of Chuckanut Bay, the train is a relaxing method of transportation to this special coastal town. This guide includes information about train routes, schedules, prices, and station tips. It will help you save money as well.

High-Value Benefits of Train Travel

Traveling by train to Bellingham is scenic, relaxing, and a practical option. Here are the main reasons to consider rail travel as the first option for Bellingham, Washington.

1. World-Class Scenic Beauty

The Amtrak Cascades takes you on one of the most picturesque journeys in North America. Marvel at the sights from the Salish Sea, Puget Sound and Chuckanut Bay, and the Cascades and Olympics. Between Mount Vernon and Bellingham, the train gives you a stunning view of the coastline, only available on this train and not on Interstate 5.

2. Stress-Free Border Travel

Travelers heading to Vancouver, B.C. from the United States find the train a less hectic option than driving. Amtrak processes customs at the Pacific Central Station in Vancouver. Passengers can leave the details to the Amtrak staff. The nature of cross-border train travel means passengers clear Canadian customs at Vancouver. The northbound train makes no border stop.

3. Direct Access to Historic Fairhaven

Bellingham’s Fairhaven Station is conveniently built in the Fairhaven Village historic district center, unlike airport train stations that are just outside the city limits. When you step off the train you are surrounded by history. Within minutes you can walk to get drinks and snacks at local shops housed in beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, and you can even catch the ferry to Alaska! You can hit the ground running and don’t have to worry about booking a rental.

4. Eco-Friendly Transportation

Amtrak Cascades is an environmentally friendly travel option in the Pacific Northwest. Trains produce a fraction of the CO2 emissions compared to cars and planes for the same distance per passenger. Rail travel is more responsible than the other major travel methods. Bellingham has even been honored by the EPA as the Green Power Partner of the Year. Arriving by train complements the city’s sustainability efforts even more.

5. No Hidden Fees

There are amazing benefits with traveling by Amtrak. You won’t be charged extra to select your seat. You won’t be charged for fuel or for taking personal items. Carry ons are free also. This makes the costing and budgeting for your trip to the Northwest incredibly easy!

Which Trains Go to Bellingham? Major Rail Services Explained

Amtrak Cascades is Bellingham’s main rail service connection to the Pacific Northwest and the rest of the country. It is a state-sponsored service, in cooperation with the Washington and Oregon departments of transportation, of intercity passenger trains.

Amtrak Cascades Service Overview

From Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia, the Amtrak Cascades is about 460 miles (740 km) long with about 18 stations. Fairhaven Station in Bellingham is the last northbound stop in the United States, making it also the most northbound Amtrak Station in the United States.

Key Features of Amtrak Cascades:

• Frequency: Multiple trains daily (2 round trips daily between Seattle to Vancouver, B.C. Six round trips in between Seattle and Portland)
• The route: Eugene, OR – Vancouver, BC (with Bellingham as a major northern destination)
• Scenic Highlights: Puget Sound, Chuckanut Bay, Cascade Mountains, Olympic Mountains
• The Onboard amenities include a Lounge car, bistro car, coach seating Business class seating WiFi (in the U.S.) and power outlets and bicycle racks
• Classes: Business and Coach Courses are offered.
• The best time to ride Fall and summer to get the best views

Service Frequency to Bellingham

Bellingham relates to four trains a day as of : north Vancouver, BC, trains in the morning and evening; as well as, Seattle south trains in the morning and evening with extra stops at Mount Vernon, Stanwood, Everett and Edmonds. Amtrak Cascades made a second daily round trip between Vancouver, BC, and Portland, OR, with a stop in Bellingham providing a perfect option for a convenient same day trip to Bellingham on the train.

Other Connecting Services

Although the Cascades are your main line to Bellingham There are a variety of Amtrak services are connected to the major hubs of: 

Route Name	Primary Destinations	Connection to Bellingham
Amtrak Cascades	Eugene, OR → Vancouver, BC	Direct service to Bellingham
Coast Starlight	Los Angeles → Seattle	Transfer at Seattle to Cascades
Empire Builder	Chicago → Seattle	Transfer at Seattle to Cascades
Amtrak Thruway Bus	Various regional stops	Connects to Bellingham station

Long-Distance Connections

To travelers who aren’t from in the Pacific Northwest:

• From California From California: Travel on the Coast Starlight from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Sacramento until Seattle and then continue into the Cascades
• From the Midwest From the Midwest: Take the Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle Then change to the Cascades
• To get to towards the East Coast: Take the Lake Shore Limited or Capitol Limited to Chicago Connect with the Empire Builder, then transfer to the Cascades in Seattle

Popular Train Routes to Bellingham From Major US Cities

The Amtrak Cascades network connects Bellingham to several Pacific Northwest cities. The most common routes are:

Seattle to Bellingham

The most heavily travelled route for going to Bellingham, has two daily, direct,  King Street departures. It takes approximately two and a half hours to travel the 90 miles to Bellingham. Passengers can enjoy the beautiful view of Puget Sound and the scenic Chuckanut Bay Coastline during the ride.

Portland to Bellingham

A 4 to 4.5 hour trip that is longer but a little more scenic takes you through the Columbia River Gorge, Olympia, Tacoma, and Seattle, and then north to Bellingham. Some trains travel straight from Portland to Vancouver, B.C. making this a direct trip.

Vancouver, B.C. to Bellingham

It’s a quick, international flight of 1 hour and 45 minutes. Keep in mind customs for southbound passengers happens at the border station in Blaine, Washington. Have your passport and documentation on hand with you.

Mount Vernon to Bellingham

A quick 30-minute jaunt through such stunning landscape along the entire route, the Chuckanut Bay area.

Everett to Bellingham

About 1 hour and 15 minutes. Allows riders to see Possession Sound and the Snohomish River delta.

From California (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento)

California travelers can take the Coast Starlight to Seattle (18-35 hour trip depending on where you are coming from), then the Cascades to Bellingham. This takes a couple of days and allows the passenger to see the West Coast in its entirety.

Schedule, Duration & Ticket Tips

The Seattle-to-Bellingham corridor is the busiest route serving Bellingham. Here’s everything you need to know:

Daily Schedule Overview 

Amtrak Cascades operates 2 daily northbound departures from Seattle King Street Station to Bellingham:

Train Number	Departure (Seattle)	Arrival (Bellingham)	Duration	Notes
516	8:30 AM PT	10:37 AM PT	~2h 07m	Morning departure
518	6:03 PM PT	8:07 PM PT	~2h 04m	Evening departure

Note: All times are approximate and subject to change. Bellingham and Seattle are in the Pacific Time Zone.

Daily Schedule Overview (Southbound from Bellingham)

Train Number	Departure (Bellingham)	Arrival (Seattle)	Duration
517	11:55 AM PT	2:05 PM PT	~2h 10m
519	2:15 PM PT	4:25 PM PT	~2h 10m

Extended Route: Portland to Bellingham

Train Number	Departure (Portland)	Arrival (Bellingham)	Duration
501	6:45 AM PT	12:30 PM PT	~5h 45m
507	2:10 PM PT	8:07 PM PT	~5h 57m

Ticket Tips for Seattle-Bellingham Travel

• Make reservations in advance to get the lowest prices The prices usually increase when the date of departure approaches.
• Saver fares have the cheapest costs, however they are subject to restrictions on refunds and cancellations.
• Flexible fares will cost you more, but they allow complete refunds as well as changes with no fees
• Business Class is a luxurious experience that includes with complimentary alcohol-free beverages as well as 25% extra Amtrak Points Guest Rewards
• Children aged 18 or younger can are free to ride within Washington state when they are accompanied by an adult who pays for the fare (restrictions apply)
• Share Fares permit tiny groups of guests to cut 60% on bookings when booked in conjunction

Scenic Seating Tips

The best view between Seattle as well as Bellingham:

• Trains heading north: Sit on the left side to enjoy Puget Sound and Chuckanut Bay views.
• Southbound trains: Sit to the left side for water views
• The most stunning scenery is within the region between Mount Vernon and Bellingham, when the train cuts across the coast of Chuckanut Bay.

Bellingham Train Travel Tips for First-Time Passengers

If it’s your first trip by train from Bellingham These tips can make sure you have a pleasant and smooth trip:

Before You Arrive

• Start 30 minutes earlier for international travel. Arrive an hour earlier if you are traveling across Canada (customs require pre-clearance)
• Install the Amtrak application to use mobile tickets as well as actual-time status updates
• Verify the status of your train on the internet or on the app prior to taking off for your station.
• Be sure to carry valid identification- A REAL driver’s license that is ID-compliant or passport valid for travel in the United States Passport is mandatory when traveling to Canada.
• You should reserve your bicycle early if you are you plan to bring a bicycle -there are only 10 bicycle racks accessible per train and are quickly sold out.

At Fairhaven Station

• Station Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 5:45 PM
• Ticketing Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 5:45 PM (ticket agent available)
• The station is accessible for wheelchairs and has checked baggage services in the hours of operation.
• The station also serves as located near a Greyhound bus stop as well as a Whatcom Transportation Authority bus hub providing additional options for transit.

Boarding the Train

• Make sure you have your ticket and a an original passport in hand (required for all trains that are bound to Canada)
• Be on the lookout for announcements about tracks assignments.
• The boarding process usually begins 15 minutes prior to departure
• The staff will scan your ticket when you get on the bus.

Onboard Experience

• Place larger bags on racks near the end of each vehicle; store things you need to keep close by at all times
• Bistro Car Bistro Car offers fresh, local cuisine and beverages available to purchase
• Lounge Car Lounge Car provides additional seating as well as a social area
• Every seat has access to electricity outlets as well as free Wi-Fi (U.S. part only)
• Pet policy: Small dogs and cat (under 20 pounds with a carriers) are permitted on journeys less than 7 hours. Pets are not allowed in Canada.

Border Crossing Tips

• Northbound towards Vancouver: Canadian customs is removed when you arrive in Pacific Central Station in Vancouver (not on the border.
• Southbound departure from Vancouver: U.S. customs and immigration checks take place at the border post located in Blaine, Washington. Every passenger must possess authentic passports and documents. The typical stop takes 30-60 minutes.
• Make sure your declaration for customs filled out and prepared
• You should be prepared to address common questions regarding your purpose for traveling and length

Direct and Connecting Train Routes to Bellingham

Being aware of your routing choices assists in planning the least time consuming options:

Direct Routes to Bellingham

These cities have direct, no transfer Amtrak Cascades service:

Origin City	Approximate Duration	Daily Frequency
Seattle, WA	2h 04m – 2h 10m	2 trains daily
Portland, OR	4h 45m – 5h 57m	2 trains daily
Vancouver, BC	1h 45m	2 trains daily
Mount Vernon, WA	30m – 35m	2 trains daily
Everett, WA	1h 15m – 1h 30m	2 trains daily
Edmonds, WA	1h 45m – 2h	2 trains daily
Stanwood, WA	45m – 55m	2 trains daily
Tacoma, WA	3h – 3h 30m	2 trains daily
Olympia-Lacey, WA	3h 30m – 4h	2 trains daily
Bellingham, WA	–	Terminus

Connecting Routes (Require Transfer)

For cities that lack direct service, it is most common that you will connect in Seattle’s King Street Station:

Origin Region	Transfer Point	Recommended Route	Total Duration
California (LA, SF, Sacramento)	Seattle King Street Station	Coast Starlight → Cascades	20-36 hours
Midwest (Chicago, etc.)	Seattle King Street Station	Empire Builder → Cascades	24-30 hours
East Coast (NYC, Boston)	Chicago + Seattle	Lake Shore Limited → Empire Builder → Cascades	40-50 hours
Southwest (Denver, Salt Lake)	Portland or Seattle	California Zephyr → Coast Starlight → Cascades	30-40 hours

Business Class vs Coach on Bellingham Trains

Amtrak automatically suggests itineraries with connecting travel. Book at least a 90 minute connection in Seattle to account for delays.

Feature	Coach Class	Business Class
Price	Starting at ~$20-$35	Starting at ~$45-$70
Seating	Standard comfortable seats (4 across)	Premium seats with extra legroom (3 across)
Refund Policy	Varies by fare type	Fully refundable if canceled before departure
Guest Rewards	Standard points	25% bonus points
Beverages	Available for purchase in Bistro Car	Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages
Lounge Access	Not included	Access to Metropolitan Lounge (where available)
Dedicated Seating	No	Yes – separate car section
Wi-Fi & Power	Included	Included
Baggage	Carry-on + 2 personal items	Carry-on + 2 personal items

• Which Should You Choose?

• Coach is ideal for those on a budget, with short excursions (like Mount Vernon to Bellingham), as well as for people who don’t require any additional amenities.
• Business Class provides excellent value when it comes to longer trips (Portland up to Bellingham) and business travellers or anyone else who wants more comfort and flexibility.

• Bellingham Train Station: Everything You Need to Know About Fairhaven Station
  Bellingham Fairhaven Station Bellingham Fairhaven Station is your access point to the Pacific Northwest paradise. The complete station guide is available here:

Location & Address

• Address: 401 Harris Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225 (Fairhaven District)
• Place: Historic Fairhaven Village, close to Bellingham Cruise Terminal and Alaska Marine Highway ferry. Bellingham Cruise Terminal and Alaska Marine Highway ferry.

• Station History & Significance

The station was constructed in the year 1995. Fairhaven Station is owned by the Port of Bellingham. It’s the last northbound station on North America. United States on the Amtrak Cascades route prior to entering Canada which makes it Northernmost Amtrak station within the United States. This station is also home to Greyhound Lines and local Whatcom Transportation Authority buses.
Station Hours

• Daily: 6:00 AM – 5:45 PM
• The ticketing agent is staffed and accessible during the entire station’s times

Station Amenities

Amenity	Available?	Details
Waiting Room	Yes	Indoor seating area
Restrooms	Yes	Clean, accessible facilities
Ticket Office	Yes	Staffed ticket agent + Quik-Trak kiosk
Wi-Fi	No	Not available in station (available onboard trains)
Parking	Yes	Short-term and long-term options nearby
Checked Baggage	Yes	Available during station hours
Accessibility	Yes	Fully wheelchair accessible
Greyhound Bus	Yes	Shared intermodal facility
Local Bus	Yes	Whatcom Transportation Authority connections
Bike Racks	Yes	Limited bicycle parking available

Parking at Fairhaven Station

The Port of Bellingham offers parking spaces near the station:

Parking Type	Location	Rate	Best For
Short-Term	Adjacent to station	Free 30 min, then $1/hour	Drop-offs, pickups, quick visits
Long-Term	401 Harris Avenue (across from station)	$6/day, $30/week	Multi-day travelers, ferry/Amtrak passengers

Important Parking Notes:

• The permanent lot is protected by a gate that is locked from 10:45 PM and 11:00 PM until 6:30 AM. It is then opened from 6:30 to 7:15 AM.
• It can also be adapted to larger vehicles, such as vehicles and trailers as well as RVs.
• Cash or debit/credit card in the kiosk at the pay station.
• First-come-first-served there are plenty of spots even in high season.

Getting to/from the Station

• Local Bus Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) buses connect Fairhaven with Bellingham’s downtown Bellingham, Western Washington University and the surrounding regions
• Uber and Lyft: Uber Lyft and Uber Lyft operate across Bellingham with convenient pick-up and drop-off
• Walking: The historic Fairhaven Village shops, restaurants as well as Marine Park are within 2-3 blocks
• Ferry Connections Ferry Connections: There is an Alaska Marine Highway ferry terminal as well as whale-watching excursions during the season can be reached by walking.
• Water Taxi: Service that go to islands in the San Juan Islands depart from Bellingham Cruise Terminal, which is located nearby. Bellingham Cruise Terminal

Nearby Attractions Within Walking Distance

• Village Books and Paper Dreams independent bookstore as well as gift shop
• Galloway’s Craft Cocktail bar
• The Black Cat – Local restaurant that is a favorite
• Marine Park – Waterfront park that has the view of Bellingham Bay
• Fairhaven Village Inn – Comfortable accommodations that have bay views

 Step-by-Step Guide

Method 1: Online Booking (Recommended)

1. Go to Amtrak.com or install the Amtrak application.
2. Enter your trip details:
   • Station of origin (e.g., Seattle King Street Station, Portland Union Station)
   • Destination: Bellingham, WA (BEL) or Fairhaven Station
   • Travel dates
   • Amount of passengers
3. Choose the train you want to use among the choices available
4. Select the type of fare you want:

• Saver: The lowest price, non-refundable, with limited modifications
• Value: Low price, can be modified based on circumstances
• Flexible: Most expensive and fully refundable. Unlimited modifications

5. Select Coach or Business Class
6. Fill in the details of your passenger and any discount coupons (senior military, student AAA, junior)
7. Make payment, and then get your ticket via the app or email

Method 2: By Phone

• Call 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245)
• Contact an Amtrak Reservations agent
• Available daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM ET

Method 3: At the Station

• Go to for the Quik-Trak self-service kiosk located at any Amtrak station.
• Purchase tickets at the ticket counter (when the ticket office is open)
• Credit cards and cash are accepte

Method 4: Third-Party Booking

• Platforms such as Wanderu and Omio are able to evaluate Amtrak costs and let you book tickets
• Sometimes, these can show promo tickets that are not featured on Amtrak’s web site.

Special Booking Considerations for Bellingham

• Bicycle Reservations: When making reservations make sure you select “Add Bike to Trip” Only 10 bike places per train
• Pet Reservations: All animals require advance reservations as well as cost payment
• Canada-bound Travel Make sure that all travelers are carrying valid passports prior to booking
• Group Travel: Take advantage of Share Fares with groups of 3-8 persons and save as much as 60 percent

Booking Tips

• Make your own Amtrak Guest Rewards profile prior making a reservation to earn points towards complimentary journeys
• Get your tickets early. Prices generally increase closer to the time of the time of departure.
• Be sure to look for discounts through Amtrak’s frequent promotional events (often during holiday time)
• Children aged 18 and younger can get to ride for free within Washington state – an enormous cost savings for families
• Make use of to use the “Multi-city” tool if planning to travel to multiple Pacific Northwest destinations

Bellingham Train Ticket Price:

Ticket pricing is difficult to navigate, but understanding them will help you budget and maximize your Pacific Northwest adventure.

Average Ticket Prices to Bellingham

Route	Saver Fare	Value Fare	Flexible Fare	Business Class
Seattle to Bellingham	$20 – $35	$35 – $50	$50 – $70	$45 – $65
Portland to Bellingham	$45 – $65	$70 – $95	$100 – $140	$85 – $120
Vancouver, BC to Bellingham	$25 – $40	$40 – $60	$60 – $85	$55 – $80
Mount Vernon to Bellingham	$10 – $15	$18 – $25	$30 – $40	$25 – $35
Everett to Bellingham	$15 – $25	$28 – $40	$45 – $60	$40 – $55
Tacoma to Bellingham	$35 – $50	$55 – $75	$80 – $110	$70 – $95

Table  – Prices are approximate and vary based on demand, day of week, and booking window. Always check current prices at Amtrak.com.

Money-Saving Strategies

1. Book Early

The most effective way to save money is by booking 7 to 11 weeks ahead. Amtrak offers tickets at most affordable prices. These are sold out fast.

2. Travel Midweek

Trains departing Tuesday and Wednesday generally cost less than Sunday and Friday departures.

3. Choose Saver Fares

If you have a firm plan, Saver fares offer the best prices. However, make sure you are aware of their specific cancellation and change policies.

4. Join Amtrak Guest Rewards

Earn points for every trip. You can redeem points for travel. Business Class, frequent travel and frequent flights get bonus points.

5. Look for Promotions

Amtrak often offers sales including:

• Share Costs: Save as much as 60% off small-group travel (3-8 persons)
• Discounts of a certain percentage for specific routes
• Flash sales on midweek travel

6. Use Discount Eligibility  Check if you qualify for:

• Senior Discount (10%): Ages 65+
• Discount Military: Active Duty and veterans
• Student Discount (15%): Through Student Advantage
• Kids Discount (50%): Ages 2-12
• Youth (18 and younger) You can ride for free within Washington state (restrictions are in effect)
• AAA Discount: Members can save on the majority of fares

7. Consider Round-Trip Booking

Sometimes purchasing two one-way tickets can be cheaper than booking a round-trip in particular if you combine the types of fare.

8. Take Advantage of Free Youth Travel

For Washington state, kids who are 18 or less can travel for on their own for free when they’re with a paying adult This is an enormous cost savings on family vacations.

Best Time to Visit Bellingham by Train: Seasonal Travel Tips

Bellingham is an all-year-round getaway however, each season brings an entirely different Pacific Northwest experience:

Spring (March – May)

• Weather: Cool, sometimes showery. Temperatures 45degF – 65degF
• Highlights: The cherry blossoms of Western Washington University, spring hike in Chuckanut Mountains, fewer crowds
• Train Travel Notes: Moderate demand; book 2-3 weeks ahead
• The best for budget travelers Photographers, hikers, and budget travelers

Summer (June – August)

• The weather is pleasant and warm Temperatures 60degF-75degF (rarely surpassing 80degF)
• Some highlights: San Juan Islands ferry excursions, whale watching Bellingham Bay kayaking, outdoor eating, Mount Baker hiking
• Train Travel Information The peak season is when prices are increase, especially on weekend. Make reservations 4-6 weeks ahead of time.
• Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, island hoppers

Fall (September – November)

• The weather is crisp and vibrant Colorful and crisp. Temperatures 45degF-65degF.
• Some highlights: Chuckanut Drive fall foliage, Western Washington University homecoming and harvest celebrations and salmon runs
• Train Travel Tips: There is a high interest in leaf-peeping weekends. Book 3-4 weeks ahead.
• The best for leaf students, photographers, or university guests

Winter (December – February)

• Weather: Cold, wet occasionally snowy; temperatures 35-50 degrees Fahrenheit
• Highlights: Mount Baker Ski Area (world-record snowfall! ) Lower hotel prices as well as cozy indoor entertainment and holiday celebrations
• Train Travel Information: Most affordable price; the best availability. There are delays in weather, but they’re rare.
• Ideal for: Skiers or snowboarders. Budget travelers Storm observers

Bellingham Event Calendar for Train Travelers

Month	Major Event	Train Booking Advice
January	Winter semester begins (WWU)	Book 2-3 weeks ahead
February	Ski season peak	Moderate advance booking
March	Spring Break	Book 3-4 weeks ahead
April	Cherry blossoms	Moderate demand
May	WWU graduation	Book 4-6 weeks ahead
July	Peak summer tourism	Book 4-6 weeks ahead
September	Fall semester begins	Book 3-4 weeks ahead
October	Homecoming & foliage	Book 3-4 weeks ahead
November	Thanksgiving travel	Book 2-3 weeks ahead
December	Holiday travel & ski season	Book 3-4 weeks ahead

Train vs Bus vs Car to Bellingham

What form of transport to use depends on individual priorities. Below is a detailed comparison for the busy Seattle-Bellingham corridor:

Factor	Train (Amtrak Cascades)	Bus (Greyhound/FlixBus)	Car (Personal/Rental)	Flight
Cost (Seattle to Bellingham)	$20 – $70	$15 – $40	$25 – $50 (gas + tolls)	$150 – $350
Duration	2h 04m – 2h 10m	2h 30m – 3h 30m	1h 30m – 2h 30m (driving)	2h 30m – 3h (total with airport time)
Comfort	High	Moderate	Good	Moderate
Scenery	Excellent	Moderate	Good	Poor
Productivity	Work-friendly	Limited	Dangerous/distracting	Limited
Eco-Friendly	Lowest CO2	Good	Higher emissions	Moderate
Baggage Ease	Easy	Moderate	Unlimited	Moderate
City Center Access	Direct (Fairhaven)	Good	Parking challenges	Requires ground transfer
Flexibility	Fixed schedule	Multiple daily	Complete	Multiple daily
Border Ease	Hassle-free	Moderate	Traffic delays	Moderate

When to Choose Each Option

Choose the Train When:

• You’d like to take in the famous Pacific Northwest scenery stress-free
• It is essential to work and perform your work
• You are looking for comfort and room
• You’re eco-conscious
• You’re traversing your way across the U.S.-Canada Canada border (hassle-free customs processing)
• If you want to have immediate connection into Fairhaven Village without parking hassles

Choose the Bus When:

• The budget should be your first priority
• You don’t mind longer travel times
• You’re more comfortable in less spacious seating

Choose Driving When:

• There is a need for a vehicle to Bellingham to stay (though Fairhaven and downtown are very walkable)
• It’s a big number of people (splitting the cost of gas)
• The luggage you carry is large or equipment
• Your destination is not serviced directly by train

Choose Flying When:

• If you’re to either the East Coast, Midwest, or even international locations.
• The importance of time is unquestionably paramount (though for Seattle-Bellingham the all door-to-door duration is usually the same)
• You found a rare flight deal

Review: In the Bellingham-Seattle corridor this train provides the most value overall -affordable prices, premium quality of service, stunning landscape, quick travel and easy access to city centers with no parking issues. Travelers who continue on to Vancouver, B.C., the ease of crossing into Canada will be of great benefit.

  Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Which train connects towards Bellingham, Washington?

It is believed that the Amtrak Cascades is the primary train that serves Bellingham. It runs in the direction of Eugene, Oregon and Vancouver, British Columbia, with Bellingham’s Fairhaven Station as the last U.S. stop before Canada. This route operates as a joint venture between WSDOT as well as ODOT.

2. What is the cost of the cost of a train ticket for Bellingham?

Prices for tickets vary based on the departure and time of booking. For Seattle prices range between $20 (Saver) up to 70 dollars (Business/Flexible). From Portland the fares start at $45. For Vancouver, B.C., tickets start around $25. The booking process is 7 to 11 weeks ahead of time. generally results in the lowest rates.

3. What is the duration of the trip by train taking to Seattle up to Bellingham?

The train that runs directly that runs from Seattle to Bellingham will take approximately two hours, and between 4 and 10 minutes and covers approximately 90 miles. It offers stunning panoramas from Puget Sound and Chuckanut Bay.

4. Is it true that Bellingham possess any Amtrak station?

Absolutely, Bellingham is home to an Amtrak station known as Fairhaven Station (station code: BEL) which is located on the number 401 Harris Avenue in the historic Fairhaven Village. It’s the most northern Amtrak station within the United States and the last station to be reached before entering Canada.

5. Do you have a direct train that runs from Portland up to Bellingham?

Absolutely, Amtrak Cascades offers direct route between Portland to Bellingham which is averaging two each day. It takes between 4 hours 45 minutes up to 6 hours, based the train selected and stop.

6. Do I have the option of taking a train between Bellingham up to Vancouver, B.C. ?

It is true that Amtrak Cascades offers direct services starting from Bellingham up to Vancouver, B.C. The journey takes around one hour and 45 minutes. It is possible to clear Canadian customs at the time of arrival in Pacific Central Station in Vancouver. Passports that are valid are required.

7. What’s the distinction of Coach Business Class and Coach Business Class on the Cascades?

Business Class provides premium three-across seats with additional legroom. completely refundable tickets, 25 percent extra Amtrak guest rewards points alcohol-free beverages are complimentary, as well as designated seating. Coach offers a standard 4 across comfortable seating with a cheaper price. The two classes are equipped with Wi-Fi and electrical outlets.

8. Do I have to bring my bicycle onto the train for Bellingham?

It is true that Amtrak Cascades allows bicycles aboard. Trains have 10 bike rack spaces. Reservations are necessary and must be booked early before they run out. It is also possible to box your bike when rack space isn’t available (except in stations that are not staffed). E-bikes are also accepted.

9. What are the documents I require for travel on the train towards Bellingham coming from Canada?

If you are traveling southbound between Vancouver, B.C. towards Bellingham You will require an active passport (or similar document approved by the government) to pass U.S. customs and immigration examination in Blaine, Washington border station. Blaine, Washington border station. To travel domestically U.S. travel to Bellingham and beyond, a valid driver’s licence or other standard ID suffices.

10. Parking is available near Bellingham train station? Bellingham railway station?

Parking is accessible in the vicinity of Fairhaven Station through the Port of Bellingham. The parking for short-term stays is for free for 30 mins and then it costs the cost is $1/hour. Parking for long-term stays across the station will cost you $6/day, or $30/week, and is secure by locking the gate at night. It is suitable for RVs as well as larger cars.