SUNSET LIMITED
The Sunset Limited train, operated by Amtrak, travels from Los Angeles, California to New Orleans, Louisiana, covering a distance of 1,995 miles. The journey takes approximately 46.5 hours and spans two nights. The train operates three round-trip journeys per week, tying it with the Cardinal for the lowest frequency of any regularly-scheduled Amtrak route.
ROUTE AND STATIONS
Termini
- Los Angeles, California
- New Orleans, Louisiana
Major Stops
- San Antonio, Texas
- El Paso, Texas
- Tucson, Arizona
- Maricopa, Arizona
- Yuma, Arizona
- Palm Springs, California
- Indio, California
- Pomona, California
Distance and Journey Time
The total distance of the Sunset Limited route is 1,995 miles (3,212 km).
The average journey time from Los Angeles to New Orleans is approximately 46.5 hours, with passengers spending two nights on the train. The schedule allows for:
- 15 hours between Los Angeles and San Antonio
- 15 hours between San Antonio and El Paso
- 16.5 hours between El Paso and New Orleans
The train operates three round-trip journeys per week in each direction. The schedule is as follows:
- Westbound (Los Angeles to New Orleans): Departs Los Angeles on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
- Eastbound (New Orleans to Los Angeles): Departs New Orleans on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
SCENIC HIGHLANDS
- The California mountains, including the San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles.
- The southwestern deserts of Arizona and New Mexico.
- The Davis Mountains in West Texas.
- The Guadalupe Mountains along the Texas-New Mexico border.
Some specific scenic highlights include:
- Crossing the Continental Divide in New Mexico.
- Passing through the Dragoon Mountains in southeastern Arizona.
- Traveling along the Rio Grande River in West Texas.
- Traversing the Chihuahuan Desert in far West Texas.
COST
Coach Class
A one-way journey from Houston to New Orleans is available for approximately $50.
Roomette
A sleeper accommodation that converts to a bed is available for over $200 one-way.
Bedroom
A larger sleeper accommodation is also available, priced at more than double the cost of a roomette.
Booking Information
- Tickets for Friday arrivals in New Orleans may sell out quickly, so booking early is recommended.
- Bidding for an upgrade to a roomette, which includes meals, maybe a viable option.
Note: Prices and availability may vary depending on the route and travel dates.