Is there a direct train from Raton to NYC?

No, you must transfer in Chicago.

How far is Raton from the nearest airport?

Raton is approximately 3 hours from Colorado Springs Airport.

Can I bring food on the train?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages.

What is the best way to get to NYC from the airport?

The AirTrain combined with the subway is the most cost-effective method.

Are there sleeper cars on the Southwest Chief?

Yes, roomettes and bedrooms are available for purchase.

Raton

New York

Train Flight

Raton to New York

Updated: 29 May 2026

Traveling from Raton to New York covers roughly 3,000 kilometers across the heart of the United States. The most iconic route involves taking the Amtrak Southwest Chief from the historic Raton Station toward Chicago. From Chicago, you transfer to an Eastern corridor train like the Lake Shore Limited to reach New York Penn Station. Alternatively, you can drive to Denver or Albuquerque to catch a direct flight to JFK or LaGuardia. This journey transitions from the high desert of New Mexico to the dense urban landscape of the East Coast.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,150 km, straight-line air distance 2,750 km.

Fastest Way

Flying from Denver International Airport to New York is the fastest method, taking roughly 8 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Amtrak coach class is the most budget-friendly option if booked well in advance.

Compare Raton to New York Routes

	Train Connecting	Flight Connecting
Duration	52 hours	8 hours
Avg Price	$350 - $700	$400 - $900
Operator	Amtrak	United Airlines
Route	Southwest Chief to Chicago, then Lake Shore Limited to New York.	Drive to Denver (DEN) then fly to New York (JFK/EWR).
Tip	Book a roomette for long-distance comfort on the Southwest Chief.	Parking at Denver International Airport is available in the Pikes Peak shuttle lot.

Travel Tips

Amtrak Booking
Use the Amtrak app to track your train status in real-time.
Airport Transit
Take the AirTrain from JFK to reach the NYC subway system efficiently.
Packing
Bring a power bank for long train segments where outlets may be occupied.
Time Zones
Prepare for a two-hour time jump when moving from Mountain to Eastern Time.
Luggage
Check your heavy bags at the station to avoid navigating NYC subways with excess weight.

Safety Tips

Station Safety
Stay in well-lit areas at the Chicago Union Station during your transfer.
Personal Belongings
Keep your wallet and phone in front pockets while navigating crowded NYC transit hubs.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water during the high-altitude departure from Raton.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local transit police number for the cities you are transiting through.