Chicago to Glacier National Park (East Glacier) by Train

Taking the train from the Midwest to the Rocky Mountains is a classic American travel experience. The direct route from Chicago to Glacier National Park drops you right at the eastern edge of the park. This long distance trip covers a vast section of the northern United States. Passengers spend a full day and night on board, watching the landscape shift from the lakes of Wisconsin to the wide open plains of North Dakota and Montana. Whether you ride in coach or book a private room, the journey offers a relaxed way to reach one of the most popular national parks in the country.

Your train options

The Empire Builder is the only direct train on this route. It runs daily in each direction as of 2026. The trip takes about 29 to 30 hours, meaning you will spend one night on board. Passengers can choose between standard coach class, which features reclining seats and leg rests, or upgrade to sleeping accommodations. Sleeper options include the Superliner Roomette, Superliner Bedroom, Family Bedroom and Accessible Bedroom. If you want to learn more about these rooms, read our guide to Amtrak roomettes and bedrooms explained. Those on a budget can read about sleeping in coach overnight. The train also carries a Sightseer Lounge car with large windows and a Dining car. Sleeping car passengers receive meals in the dining car, while coach passengers can purchase food from the cafe or bring their own provisions.

The journey

Leaving Chicago, the train heads north through Wisconsin. Depending on the time of year and schedule, you might catch daylight views of the Wisconsin lakes and the Wisconsin Dells. The route then follows a long run beside the Mississippi River from La Crosse to Red Wing before reaching Minneapolis-St. Paul. Overnight, the train crosses Minnesota and enters North Dakota. By the next morning, you will likely wake up to the open northern plains. The stretch from Minot to Havre crosses wheat country and very small towns along Montana's Hi-Line. Key stops across this vast region include Fargo, Grand Forks, Williston, Wolf Point and Shelby. The scenery gradually changes as the train approaches the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, culminating at the East Glacier Park stop.

The stations

Trains depart from Chicago Union Station, located in the West Loop just a short walk or bus ride from the Loop. The station features the 1925 Beaux Arts Great Hall and serves as the hub for most western long distance trains. Commuter trains and the CTA Blue Line Clinton stop are nearby. Premium passengers can use the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. You will arrive at the Glacier National Park (East Glacier) station. This is a seasonal stop across the road from the historic Glacier Park Lodge, acting as the main gateway to the east side of the park in summer.