Can I get to Boise/Nampa by train?
Not directly. If you look at the Amtrak route map, you'll see why!
But if you want to think creatively about your modes of transportation, here are some options. but there are routes you can schedule (e.g., Chicago to Boise) that combine train and "thruways," usually a bus like Greyhound. Or you can rent a car from your final train destination.
Here are some options:
- Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
- The Empire Builder has four potential stops, which will get you 4-8 hours (driving) from Nampa. Stops to consider:
- Spokane -- 7-8 hours to Nampa
- Pasco (may require a train change in Spokane) -- 3.5 hours to Nampa driving, or a very short flight to Boise
- Portland or Seattle -- 6-8 hours driving, or a quick flight (1-1.5 hours)
- California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
- From the Winnemucca or Elko, NV stops, drive time is approximately 4 hours.
- From the Salt Lake City station, drive time is approximately 5 hours, flights around 1.5 hours
- Coast Starlight (LA to Seattle)
- From Portland or Seattle, driving is 6-8 hours, flights are 1-1.5 hours
