How to Get to Reno from Los Angeles [2025 Guide]
Train, bus or fly from Los Angeles to Reno? The best way to get from Los Angeles to Reno is to fly which takes 3h 39m and costs $70 – $330.
🎲 Why Visit Reno from Los Angeles?
Reno, nicknamed “The Biggest Little City in the World,” is famous for its casinos, nightlife, and proximity to Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend getaway, outdoor adventures, or business, getting to Reno from Los Angeles is simple with multiple transportation options.
✈️ Option 1: Flying from Los Angeles to Reno
The quickest and most convenient way is by air.
- Airlines (2025): Southwest, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines offer daily nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) to Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO).
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes nonstop.
- Cost (2025): $70–$180 round-trip depending on season and how early you book.
- Airport Transfers in Reno: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, and shuttles are available to downtown Reno (10 minutes away).
👉 This is the fastest and most popular option for travelers from L.A.
🚗 Option 2: Driving from Los Angeles to Reno
A road trip from Los Angeles to Reno lets you enjoy scenic California and Nevada landscapes.
- Distance: ~475 miles (via US-395 North).
- Driving Time: About 7–8 hours without heavy traffic.
- Highlights Along the Way: Owens Valley, Mammoth Lakes, Mono Lake, and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Fuel Costs (2025): ~$70–$100 round-trip depending on your car’s mileage.
- Best For: Families, road trip lovers, and travelers planning to explore Lake Tahoe too.
👉 This is the most flexible option if you enjoy stopping at natural attractions.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals, offers, reviews in your destination before you book.
🚌 Option 3: Bus from Los Angeles to Reno
If you want a budget-friendly option, buses are available.
- Operators: Greyhound, FlixBus, and Megabus.
- Duration: 10–12 hours (with possible transfers).
- Cost (2025): $40–$80 one-way.
- Departure Points: Los Angeles Union Station, Downtown L.A., or Hollywood.
- Arrival: Reno Amtrak Station or downtown bus terminal.
👉 This is the cheapest long-distance option, ideal for budget travelers.
🚆 Option 4: Train from Los Angeles to Reno
Amtrak offers a scenic but longer journey.
- Route: Amtrak Coast Starlight (Los Angeles → Sacramento) + California Zephyr (Sacramento → Reno).
- Total Duration: ~12–14 hours.
- Cost (2025): $65–$120 one-way (coach seat).
- Highlights: Spectacular Sierra Nevada mountain views and Donner Pass.
👉 Best for those who want a relaxing, scenic trip instead of rushing.
📊 Travel Options Comparison
| Option | Duration | Cost (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight (LAX/BUR → RNO) | ~1h 30m | $70–$180 | Fastest & most convenient |
| 🚗 Driving | 7–8h | $70–$100 (fuel) | Scenic road trips |
| 🚌 Bus | 10–12h | $40–$80 | Budget travelers |
| 🚆 Train (Amtrak) | 12–14h | $65–$120 | Scenic, relaxed travel |
🌤️ Best Time to Travel from Los Angeles to Reno
- Summer (June–August): Great for Lake Tahoe trips, hiking, and festivals.
- Winter (December–March): Ideal for skiing in the Sierra Nevada and visiting casinos.
- Spring & Fall: Mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower travel costs.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals, offers, reviews in your destination before you book.
🙋 FAQs About Getting to Reno from Los Angeles
1. What is the fastest way to get to Reno from Los Angeles?
Flying is the fastest option, taking only about 1 hour 30 minutes nonstop.
2. How far is Reno from Los Angeles by car?
It’s around 475 miles, with a driving time of 7–8 hours via US-395 North.
3. Is there a direct train from Los Angeles to Reno?
No direct train. You’ll need to transfer in Sacramento using Amtrak.
4. How much is a bus ticket from Los Angeles to Reno?
In 2025, tickets usually cost $40–$80 one-way depending on the operator.
5. Which airlines fly nonstop from LAX to Reno?
Southwest, Delta, Alaska Airlines, and United operate nonstop flights to Reno-Tahoe International Airport.
6. Can I combine a Reno trip with Lake Tahoe?
Yes! Reno is only 45 minutes from Lake Tahoe, making it a perfect twin-destination trip.
7. What’s the cheapest way to get to Reno from Los Angeles?
Taking a bus is the cheapest, while booking flights early also keeps airfare affordable.
✅ Final Takeaway: If you want to reach Reno quickly, flying is your best bet. For road trippers, the drive offers incredible Sierra Nevada views. Budget travelers can choose buses, while train lovers can enjoy a scenic ride. No matter which option you pick, Reno is only a short trip away from Los Angeles.