The trip from Lebanon, Oregon to Spokane, Washington covers roughly 350 miles. Driving is the most common method, taking you through the scenic Columbia River Gorge via I-84 and then north on US-395. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from nearby Albany to Portland, then transfer to the Empire Builder line heading east to Spokane. The drive takes about 6 to 7 hours, while the train journey is significantly longer due to transfers and stops. This route offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the high desert of Eastern Washington.
Total Distance: 560 km driving distance; 480 km straight-line air distance.
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Connecting
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Direct
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|---|---|---|
| Duration | 12 hours | 6 hours 30 mins |
| Avg Price | $100-$250 | $80-$120 in fuel |
| Operator | Amtrak | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | Albany (ALB) to Portland (PDX) via Cascades, then Empire Builder to Spokane (SPK). | I-5 North to I-84 East, then US-395 North. |
| Tip | Book the Empire Builder in advance as it is a popular long-distance route. | Stop in Hood River for a scenic break along the Columbia River. |
Late spring or early autumn provides the most comfortable driving conditions through the mountain passes.