Is there a direct train from PA to LA?

No, there is no direct train; you must transfer in Chicago.

How long does it take to drive to LA?

It takes approximately 42 hours of pure driving time.

What is the best airport near Burnham?

Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is the closest major airport.

Are there tolls on the way to LA?

Yes, expect tolls on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and various sections of I-80.

Can I fly direct from PA to LA?

No, all flights from Harrisburg require at least one connection.

Burnham

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

Burnham to Los Angeles

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from Burnham, Pennsylvania to Los Angeles covers approximately 4,200 kilometers across the heart of the United States. The most efficient route involves driving to Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) for a connecting flight to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak Pennsylvanian train from Lewistown to Philadelphia, then transfer to the Lake Shore Limited or Capitol Limited to reach Chicago, followed by the Southwest Chief to Los Angeles. Driving requires navigating I-80 West through the Midwest and I-15 South through the Rockies. This journey spans multiple time zones and diverse geographic landscapes from the Appalachian Mountains to the Pacific Coast.

Total Distance: Driving distance 4,200 km, straight-line air distance 3,750 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) to LAX is the fastest, taking roughly 8 hours including layovers.

Cheapest Way

Driving with multiple passengers is the most cost-effective method for this long-distance route.

Compare Burnham to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	8 hours	42 hours
Avg Price	$350 - $700	$600 - $900 in fuel
Operator	American Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MDT to LAX via Chicago or Dallas hubs.	I-80 W to I-76 W to I-70 W to I-15 S.
Tip	Book at least 21 days in advance to secure lower fares from Harrisburg.	Check tire pressure and coolant levels before crossing the desert regions of Utah and Nevada.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Use Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) as your primary departure point for the best regional connectivity.
Train Booking
If taking the train, book a roomette on the Southwest Chief for a more comfortable multi-day journey.
Time Zones
Prepare for a three-hour time difference when traveling west from Pennsylvania to California.
Hydration
If driving, carry extra water when crossing the arid stretches of the American Southwest.
Luggage
Check airline weight limits strictly, as domestic flights often charge for bags over 23 kilograms.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Avoid driving through the Rockies during winter months due to heavy snow and ice on I-70.
Vehicle Prep
Ensure your vehicle has a full service check before embarking on a 4,000-kilometer cross-country trip.
Urban Awareness
Stay vigilant in high-traffic tourist areas of Los Angeles to avoid pickpockets.
Emergency Kit
Keep a roadside emergency kit including jumper cables, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit in your trunk.