Testing Car-Free Travel on the Coast Starlight
We recently completed an extended weekend train trip on Amtrak’s Coast Starlight route. Our journey took us from Klamath Falls, Oregon, to Jack London Square in Oakland, California, and back. The primary purpose was visiting our children and grandson in the Bay Area. However, we had a secondary mission: testing the Amtrak Coast Starlight for bike-friendly train travel. We wanted to see if we could rely entirely on public transportation and pedal power. The experiment proved highly successful. We brought our bikes on Amtrak for just $10 each way per bicycle. The bikes traveled fully assembled in the baggage car. Note that Amtrak has specific bicycle requirements, so check their guidelines before booking. The train provided comfortable, spacious seating that reclined well for overnight rest. We never felt cramped or uncomfortable during the journey. The ability to move freely around the train made the experience far superior to driving.
Bay Area Adventures on Two Wheels and Rails
Once we arrived in Oakland, our bike-friendly adventure continued seamlessly. We used BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to reach the East Bay and Tri-Valley area. BART proved exceptionally accommodating for bicycle travelers. The system allowed us to bring our bikes aboard during non-peak hours. We found the service reliable and efficient throughout our stay. We based ourselves in Pleasanton, California, where we stayed with family. Our bicycles gave us complete freedom to explore the area and visit our grandson. We pedaled around town for errands, meals, and family visits. The flat terrain and bike lanes made cycling safe and enjoyable. We also ventured into San Francisco using a combination of BART and MUNI. We visited Golden Gate Park and were the beneficiaries of live piano music throughout the gardens. During our entire Bay Area stay, we never once missed having a car. In fact, we found the combination of bikes and public transit more liberating than driving would have been.
Coast Starlight at night
The Unexpected Benefits of Train Delays and Onboard Amenities
Our return journey included an unexpected twist that turned into a memorable experience. We faced a five-hour delay at Jack London Square station while waiting for our train. Station staff locked the terminal for security but allowed passengers to rest inside comfortably. While delays are never ideal, this one brought an unexpected benefit. Because we departed late, we traveled through Northern California and Southern Oregon during daylight hours instead of darkness. The Coast Starlight typically runs this segment at night, going North. We witnessed spectacular scenery rarely seen by northbound passengers. The views were absolutely fantastic and worth the wait. The onboard experience itself offered many enjoyable features. We participated in the time-honored tradition of communal breakfast seating in the dining car. Sharing meals with fellow travelers created memorable conversations and new friendships. The observation lounge car became our favorite spot during the journey. Any passenger can use this space at any time, regardless of ticket type. The panoramic windows provided stunning views of the river and mountains. Sleeping is not permitted in the observation car to maintain comfort for all passengers. The snack bar in the lounge car offered plenty of options for light meals, snacks, and beverages. The dining car served full meals to all passengers, not just those with sleeper accommodations. You can sit down and enjoy proper table service regardless of your ticket class. Overall, this trip exceeded our expectations in every way.
Tim by Train, Founder of Travel by Train – email: timbytrains@gmail.com