What is the Best Way to Get from San Francisco Airport to Redding, CA if Car is Not an Option?

Travelling from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Redding, California, without a car can be a bit tricky but certainly achievable through a combination of public transportation options. Below, we explore the most convenient and reliable methods to reach your destination.

Option 1: BART and Caltrain

The first method involves using the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) to connect to the California High-Speed Rail (Caltrain) service. While this is a slightly longer journey, it offers a direct connection and can be more comfortable than other alternatives.

Step 1: Take the BART from SFO to Millbrae. There are multiple trains leaving from SFO to Millbrae every hour. Millbrae Station is served by BART.

Step 2: At Millbrae, transfer to the Caltrain service heading towards Diridon Station in San Jose. Diridon Station is the Caltrain terminal where you can connect to various trains. During peak commute hours, you may have the option to take a limited-stop or express train if your return flight is scheduled to depart during these times.

Step 3: Board the Coast Starlight train in Diridon. This train makes a stop in Redding. The Coast Starlight is a passenger train service that travels from San Diego, California to Seattle, Washington, with a route that includes a stop in Redding. It is a scenic and comfortable journey, even though it can take longer than other options due to the overnight route.

Option 2: BART, Amtrak, and Coast Starlight

A second method involves using the BART to connect to the Amtrak service then transfer to the Coast Starlight.

Step 1: Take the BART from SFO to 12th Street in Downtown Oakland. Oakland Amtrak is located at 12th and Mission Streets. This station serves both BART and Amtrak.

Step 2: At Oakland Amtrak station, transfer to the Coast Starlight bound for Redding.

Plan Your Journey

The Coast Starlight train is a daily service, but there is only one train in each direction. As of October 2017, the schedule for the Coast Starlight is as follows:

Train departing San Jose (Diridon Station) at 8:23 PM Train departing Oakland at 9:39 PM Train arriving in Redding at 3:06 AM

Please note that the Coast Starlight often runs 1 to 2 hours behind schedule, and occasionally it can be even later. This means that planning your stay overnight at one of the connecting stations or a hotel in the area may be necessary to avoid extended delays.

Alternative Flights

United and SkyWest airlines operate three daily flights from SFO to Redding. This option is faster and more convenient compared to the train services. However, departure times and schedules can vary, so it's essential to check the latest schedules for the day of travel.

Conclusion

While the Coast Starlight train provides a scenic and comfortable journey, the frequent delays and overnight service may not be the best option for those with tight schedules. If time is a critical factor, United and SkyWest airlines are a much faster and more direct choice. Additionally, SuperShuttle does not serve Redding from SFO, so exploring rideshare options or booking a taxi could be another viable alternative.

Key Points to Remember:

Train schedules can be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances. Plan your journey accordingly and consider a hotel stay if necessary. United and SkyWest airlines operate three daily flights to Redding.

Keywords:

Barn, Redding, CA, Public Transportation