I want to go up the West Coast on the Coast Starlight, but I do not want to make reservations as I want to do?

Question

the trip in increments, getting on and off the train at several stops. I want flexibility and spontaneity so could you tell me the best way to do this and can I just show up at the train station and buy a ticket as I need one?

Answer 1

According to the Amtrak website, reservations are required for the Starlight.

http://www.cwrr.com/Amtrak/w_costar.html

Answer 2

Reservations are required, and on the web at least they don't let you do the Cali coast south of San Fran in increments (unless things have changed very recently).

If you're getting on and off along the Cali coast (or even trying to book small legs on the route), Amtrak will try to send you by bus to the line that runs throught the San Joachim valley.

Answer 3

All the overnight trains are reservations only.   However, you CAN make the reservation 10 minutes before train arrival, if there's space.  You can also talk to the conductor when the train comes in - you might work something out with him/her.

If that doesn't work, Amtrak offers parallel trains and buses through the entire route in California.  The Surfliners from LA-SLO, the Capitols from San Jose-Sac, and buses the rest of the way.

http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/

There is also parallel service between Eugene and Vancouver BC.