Which Amtrak route serves Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is served by Amtrak's Empire Builder route, which runs daily between Chicago and Seattle/Portland. The train stops at East Glacier Park Station (summer only) and West Glacier/Whitefish stations, providing direct access to the park's eastern and western entrances.

What are the best times of year to visit Glacier National Park by train?

The prime visiting season for Glacier National Park is from late June through early September when Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open, most services are operational, and weather conditions are optimal. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and fullest access to park amenities, while June and September provide fewer crowds with most facilities still open.

What package deals are available for Glacier National Park via Amtrak?

Amtrak offers several package options including rail-only fares, rail + lodging packages at park gateway communities, and comprehensive tour packages that include guided activities. Many packages include scenic boat tours on Two Medicine Lake, Red Bus Tours on Going-to-the-Sun Road, and accommodations at historic park lodges like Many Glacier Hotel or Lake McDonald Lodge.

How far in advance should I book my Glacier National Park train trip?

For the best availability and pricing, book your Glacier National Park Amtrak trip 3-6 months in advance, especially if traveling during peak season (July-August). Lodging within the park often fills up a year in advance, so early planning is essential for securing preferred accommodations and activities.

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Glacier National Park Rail Experience

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park via Amtrak's legendary Empire Builder route. This spectacular journey takes you through some of North America's most stunning landscapes, delivering you directly to the gates of Montana's pristine wilderness.

With over 1 million acres spanning two mountain ranges, Glacier National Park features deep valleys, crystal-clear lakes, ancient forests, and dramatic alpine scenery. The park is home to more than 130 named lakes, five National Historic Landmarks, and iconic wildlife including grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats.

Arrive relaxed and ready for adventure after a scenic train journey that eliminates the stress of driving and parking. Our special packages include everything you need for an unforgettable national park experience.

Direct service on Amtrak's Empire Builder route

Stops at East Glacier Park and West Glacier stations

Package deals with lodging and activities included

Scenic boat tours on Two Medicine Lake included

Expert guides and naturalist programs available

Flexible booking with various package options

Experience Highlights

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Spectacular Scenery

Glacier National Park offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in North America, with over 700 miles of trails, pristine lakes, and dramatic mountain peaks.

Going-to-the-Sun Road - 50-mile scenic drive
Over 130 named lakes including Lake McDonald
More than 200 waterfalls throughout the park
26 remaining glaciers (from 150 in 1850)
Diverse ecosystems from prairie to alpine tundra
Historic lodges and chalets

Designated as both a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Stress-Free Travel

Amtrak's Empire Builder provides a relaxing journey to Glacier National Park without the hassles of driving, parking, or navigating mountain roads.

Comfortable seating with large windows
Dining car with full meal service
Sightseer lounge car with panoramic views
Sleeping accommodations available
No traffic or parking concerns
Arrive rested and ready to explore
Eco-friendly transportation option

Arrive at the park gates refreshed and ready for adventure.

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Included Activities

Our Glacier National Park packages include curated experiences that showcase the park's best features with expert guidance.

Scenic boat tours on Two Medicine Lake
Guided hikes with naturalist interpreters
Historic Red Bus Tours on Going-to-the-Sun Road
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Photography workshops
Evening ranger programs
Access to visitor centers and museums

Comprehensive experiences curated by park experts.

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Accommodation Options

Choose from various lodging options to suit your preferences and budget, from historic park lodges to comfortable gateway community hotels.

Historic Many Glacier Hotel
Lake McDonald Lodge
Rising Sun Motor Inn
Village Inn at Apgar
Hotels in Whitefish and East Glacier
Camping options available
Luxury resort packages

Options for every travel style and budget.

Planning Your Glacier National Park Adventure

Choose Your Package

Select from our curated Glacier National Park packages based on your interests, budget, and travel dates. Options range from basic rail service to all-inclusive guided tours.

Book Your Journey

Reserve your Amtrak travel and accommodations through our dedicated booking system. Early booking is recommended, especially for summer travel and park lodging.

Travel in Comfort

Board the Empire Builder and enjoy a scenic journey to Montana. Relax in comfortable seating, enjoy meals in the dining car, and take in panoramic views from the sightseer lounge.

Explore the Park

Arrive at Glacier National Park ready for adventure. Your package includes scheduled activities, or you can explore independently using our recommended itineraries.

Ready to Experience Glacier National Park?

Book your scenic rail adventure to Montana's Crown of the Continent. Limited packages available for the 2023 season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Glacier National Park is served by Amtrak's Empire Builder route, which runs daily between Chicago and Seattle/Portland. The train stops at two primary stations serving the park:

East Glacier Park Station (summer only) - Provides access to the park's eastern entrances and Two Medicine Valley
West Glacier/Whitefish Station (year-round) - Serves the park's western entrances and Apgar Village

The Empire Builder offers stunning views of Glacier National Park as it travels along the southern boundary of the park, with particularly spectacular scenery in the morning eastbound and evening westbound.

The prime visiting season for Glacier National Park is from late June through early September when:

Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open (typically late June to mid-October)
All visitor services and facilities are operational
Weather conditions are most favorable for hiking and outdoor activities
Park shuttle systems are running
Ranger-led programs are offered daily

July and August offer the warmest temperatures and fullest access to park amenities, while June and September provide fewer crowds with most facilities still open. Winter travel is possible but limited, with many services closed from October to May.

Amtrak offers several package options for Glacier National Park, including:

Rail-Only Packages: Basic transportation to/from the park
Rail + Lodging Packages: Train travel plus accommodations at park gateway communities
All-Inclusive Tour Packages: Comprehensive packages including guided activities, meals, and park lodging
Specialty Packages: Photography tours, hiking-focused trips, and family adventure packages

Many packages include scenic boat tours on Two Medicine Lake, Red Bus Tours on Going-to-the-Sun Road, and accommodations at historic park lodges like Many Glacier Hotel or Lake McDonald Lodge. Custom packages can also be arranged for groups or special interests.

For the best availability and pricing, book your Glacier National Park Amtrak trip 3-6 months in advance, with these considerations:

Peak Season (July-August): Book 6+ months in advance for best selection
Shoulder Season (June, September): Book 3-4 months in advance
Park Lodging: Often fills up a year in advance for popular locations
Special Activities: Red Bus Tours and boat cruises should be reserved early
Holiday Periods: Book even further in advance for holiday weekends

Early planning is essential for securing preferred accommodations, activities, and train seating. Last-minute bookings may have limited options, especially for sleeping accommodations on the train.

Proper preparation is key for a comfortable Glacier National Park experience. Essential items include:

Layered Clothing: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains
Sturdy Hiking Shoes: Essential for exploring trails safely
Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants for sudden showers
Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
Binoculars: For wildlife viewing from a safe distance
Camera: To capture the stunning scenery
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during activities
Daypack: For carrying essentials during excursions

Also consider bringing motion sickness medication if prone to train travel discomfort, and any personal medications you may need during your journey.

Yes, both the train and park offer dining options:

Amtrak Dining: Full-service dining car with prepared meals, cafe car with snacks and light meals
Park Lodging Dining: Restaurants at Many Glacier Hotel, Lake McDonald Lodge, and other park facilities
Gateway Communities: Restaurants in Whitefish, East Glacier, and West Glacier
Picnic Options: Many scenic spots perfect for packed lunches

Most package tours include some meals, while independent travelers can choose from various dining options. Advance reservations are recommended for popular park restaurants during peak season.

Glacier National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including:

Large Mammals: Grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, moose, elk, deer
Smaller Mammals: Marmots, pikas, beavers, river otters, red foxes
Birds: Bald eagles, osprey, peregrine falcons, various waterfowl
Fish: Native cutthroat trout, bull trout, and other species

Wildlife viewing is best in the early morning and evening hours. Always maintain a safe distance (100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other wildlife) and never feed animals. Bear spray is recommended for backcountry hiking.

Glacier National Park offers hiking trails for all ability levels:

Easy Trails: Trail of the Cedars, Avalanche Lake, Hidden Lake Overlook
Moderate Trails: Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake
Strenuous Trails: Swiftcurrent Pass, Piegan Pass, Siyeh Pass
Ranger-Led Hikes: Guided hikes available throughout the park

Trail conditions vary throughout the season, with higher elevation trails often snow-covered until mid-July. Always check current conditions, carry the ten essentials, and be prepared for changing weather. Guided hikes are included in many package tours.

Amtrak Glacier National Park Special