Introduction
Rialto's history is closely tied to the railroad. The city grew along rail lines that connected Southern California to the rest of the nation, and rail remains essential today. Passenger trains carry commuters to Los Angeles, while freight trains move enormous volumes of goods from the ports to warehouses and markets across the country.
This guide reviews the most important railway operators and rail-based services for Rialto residents and businesses, from commuter rail and long-distance passenger trains to Class I freight railroads and intermodal providers.
Rail in the Inland Empire
The Rialto Metrolink station on the San Bernardino Line offers direct commuter service to Los Angeles Union Station. Freight rail lines operated by major railroads pass through the region, connecting the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach with intermodal yards and distribution centers.
Rail offers efficient long-distance transportation for both people and goods. It reduces highway congestion and emissions, making it an increasingly important part of the region's transportation strategy.
The Top 10 Railway Operators and Rail Services for Rialto
1. Metrolink
Metrolink is Southern California's regional commuter rail system, and its San Bernardino Line serves the Rialto station. Trains connect Rialto with Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Pomona, and Los Angeles Union Station. Metrolink is a popular alternative to driving on congested freeways, offering comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi.
2. BNSF Railway
BNSF is one of the largest freight railroads in North America and operates major intermodal facilities in Southern California, including San Bernardino. It moves containers from the ports to inland destinations across the western and central United States, supporting countless Inland Empire businesses.
3. Union Pacific Railroad
Union Pacific operates one of the largest rail networks in the country, with key routes and terminals throughout the Inland Empire. It provides intermodal, bulk, and manifest freight service. Union Pacific is vital for moving goods between Southern California, the Midwest, and Gulf Coast markets.
4. Amtrak
Amtrak provides long-distance passenger rail service, with the Southwest Chief stopping in San Bernardino and other routes serving nearby stations. Travelers from Rialto can ride to destinations such as Albuquerque, Kansas City, and Chicago, enjoying scenic views and spacious seating.
5. Arrow
Arrow is a passenger rail service operated in partnership with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, connecting downtown San Bernardino with the University of Redlands area. It offers convenient connections to Metrolink, making it easier for Rialto residents to reach Redlands without driving.
6. Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Connections
While the Pacific Surfliner runs along the coast, Rialto travelers can reach it via Metrolink and Union Station. The Surfliner connects Los Angeles with San Diego, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo, offering one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country.
7. Brightline West
Brightline West is developing a high-speed rail line connecting Southern California with Las Vegas, with a planned station in Rancho Cucamonga near Rialto. Once completed, it is expected to offer a fast, convenient alternative to driving the Interstate 15 corridor.
8. J.B. Hunt Intermodal
J.B. Hunt's intermodal division partners closely with BNSF to move containers by rail across the country. For Inland Empire shippers, intermodal offers significant cost and emissions savings compared to long-haul trucking, while maintaining reliable transit times.
9. Hub Group
Hub Group is a leading intermodal and logistics provider that coordinates rail transportation for shippers nationwide. It works with major railroads to offer door-to-door intermodal services, combining rail efficiency with truck flexibility for pickup and delivery.
10. Pacific Harbor Line
Pacific Harbor Line provides switching and dispatching services within the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. While not located in Rialto, its operations are critical to the flow of rail freight that ultimately reaches Inland Empire warehouses and distribution centers.
Choosing Rail for Travel or Shipping
For commuters, compare Metrolink schedules and pass options with the cost and time of driving. Many employers offer transit subsidies that make rail even more affordable. For leisure travel, Amtrak offers scenic routes and the comfort of moving around during the journey.
For businesses, intermodal rail is ideal for long-distance shipments where cost savings outweigh slightly longer transit times. Work with intermodal providers who offer strong tracking, reliable drayage, and flexible capacity.
Rail Trends in Southern California
Southern California is investing heavily in rail, including zero-emission locomotives, expanded commuter service, and high-speed rail projects. Freight railroads are improving efficiency with precision scheduling and advanced technology. These investments aim to reduce congestion and emissions while supporting economic growth.
Rail's Economic Impact on Rialto
Rail activity supports thousands of jobs across the Inland Empire, from train crews and yard workers to warehouse staff who handle goods arriving by intermodal container. For Rialto residents, commuter rail provides access to higher-paying jobs in Los Angeles without the expense of daily driving. As regional agencies expand service and freight railroads modernize, rail will remain a key driver of the city's economy and quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Rail connects Rialto to Los Angeles, the nation, and global markets. Whether you are commuting on Metrolink, exploring the country on Amtrak, or shipping goods by intermodal rail, the operators above play a vital role in keeping people and freight moving.