Zhangye West Station is on the Lanzhou–Xinjiang high-speed rail line, which makes it well-connected for travellers moving along the Hexi Corridor. Lanzhou is about three to three and a half hours east; Jiayuguan is about one hour west. Trains to Dunhuang require a change at Liuyuan or at Guazhou — the journey takes four to five hours depending on the connection.
The old Zhangye railway station in the city centre is served by slower intercity trains if you want a cheaper option for the Lanzhou leg. For the Danxia Geological Park forty kilometres west, shuttle buses run from the city during peak season; otherwise taxis or private hire are the practical option.