Planning a scenic rail journey from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park via Amtrak offers a unique and memorable travel experience. This extensive trip covers approximately 2,200 miles, traversing diverse landscapes from the urban sprawl of Southern California to the rugged wilderness of Montana. The journey typically takes around 48-50 hours, including a transfer in Chicago, and provides passengers with breathtaking views of the American West and Northwest.
What is the Route for Amtrak Los Angeles to Glacier National Park?
The journey from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park involves two main Amtrak routes:
- Southwest Chief: Los Angeles to Chicago
- Empire Builder: Chicago to East Glacier Park, West Glacier, or Whitefish
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the route:
| Segment | Train | Departure | Arrival | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles to Chicago | Southwest Chief | Los Angeles Union Station | Chicago Union Station | ~43 hours |
| Chicago to Glacier National Park | Empire Builder | Chicago Union Station | East Glacier Park, West Glacier, or Whitefish | ~10-12 hours |
What are the Key Stops Along the Way?
The Amtrak journey from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park includes several notable stops:
- Southwest Chief Route:
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Kansas City, Missouri
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Chicago, Illinois
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Empire Builder Route:
- Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota
- Fargo, North Dakota
- Whitefish, Montana
- East Glacier Park, Montana (seasonal)
- West Glacier, Montana
How Long Does the Trip Take?
The total travel time from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park via Amtrak is approximately 48-50 hours, including:
- ~43 hours on the Southwest Chief from Los Angeles to Chicago
- Several hours layover in Chicago (varies based on connection times)
- ~10-12 hours on the Empire Builder from Chicago to Glacier National Park area
It’s important to note that train schedules can vary, and delays are possible due to various factors such as weather conditions or track maintenance.
What are the Ticket Options and Prices?
Amtrak offers several ticket classes for the journey from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park:
- Coach Class:
- Most economical option
- Reclining seats with legroom and footrests
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Access to the Sightseer Lounge Car
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Business Class (available on some segments):
- Extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages
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Priority boarding and dedicated car attendant
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Sleeping Accommodations:
- Roomettes: Private rooms with convertible seating, beds, and meals included
- Bedrooms: Larger private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, showers, and meals included
Ticket prices can vary significantly based on factors such as:
– Travel dates
– Booking time
– Class of service
– Seasonal demand
As a general guideline, one-way fares may range from:
– $200-$400 for Coach Class
– $500-$1000 for Business Class
– $800-$2000+ for Sleeping Accommodations
It’s recommended to check the Amtrak website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.
Are There Any Discounts Available?
Amtrak offers various discounts that can help reduce the cost of your journey:
- Senior Discount (65+): 10% off most fares
- Student Discount: 15% off for students aged 13-25
- Military Discount: 10% off for active duty military, their spouses, and dependents
- Children’s Discount: Up to 50% off for children aged 2-12 (one child per paying adult)
- Rail Passengers Association (RPA) Members: 10% discount
- AAA Members: 10% discount
Additionally, Amtrak occasionally offers promotional fares and package deals, especially for trips to national parks. It’s worth checking their website or signing up for their email newsletter to stay informed about special offers.
What Amenities are Available on the Train?
Amtrak trains offer a range of amenities to make your journey comfortable:
- For All Passengers:
- Café car with food and beverages for purchase
- Sightseer Lounge Car with panoramic windows
- Free Wi-Fi (may be limited in remote areas)
- Power outlets at every seat
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Restrooms in each car
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For Sleeping Car Passengers:
- All meals included in the dining car
- Complimentary bottled water
- Fresh towels and linens
- Access to shower facilities
How Can I Make the Most of the Scenic Journey?
To fully appreciate the scenic beauty of the Amtrak Los Angeles to Glacier National Park route:
- Plan your seating:
- On the Southwest Chief, sit on the right side from LA to Albuquerque, then switch to the left for better views of the Rockies.
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On the Empire Builder, the left side offers the best views of Glacier National Park.
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Use the Sightseer Lounge Car: This car has floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for taking in the panoramic views.
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Time your trip: Consider traveling during the summer months when daylight hours are longer, allowing you to see more of the scenery.
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Bring binoculars: These can enhance your viewing experience, especially when passing through wildlife-rich areas.
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Download the Amtrak app: It provides real-time GPS tracking, allowing you to know exactly where you are and what landmarks to look out for.
What Should I Pack for the Journey?
For a comfortable trip on Amtrak from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park, consider packing:
- Comfortable clothing and layers (trains can sometimes be cool)
- Slip-on shoes for easy removal
- Eye mask and earplugs for sleeping
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks (although food is available for purchase)
- Entertainment (books, tablets, etc.)
- Chargers for your electronic devices
- Small overnight bag with essentials if you’re in coach class
- Camera to capture the scenic views
How Do I Book My Ticket?
Booking your Amtrak ticket from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park is straightforward:
- Visit the Amtrak website (www.amtrak.com) or use the Amtrak mobile app
- Enter your departure (Los Angeles, CA) and arrival (East Glacier Park, West Glacier, or Whitefish, MT) stations
- Select your travel dates
- Choose your preferred class of service
- Review and confirm your itinerary
- Make your payment
Alternatively, you can call Amtrak’s reservation line at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) to book over the phone or visit an Amtrak ticket office in person.
Remember to book well in advance, especially during peak summer months, to secure the best fares and availability.
What Should I Know About Arriving at Glacier National Park?
Upon arriving at your destination station near Glacier National Park:
- Transportation to the park:
- If arriving at West Glacier, the park entrance is about 3 miles away. Shuttle services are available during peak season.
- From East Glacier Park station, you’ll need to arrange transportation to the park (about 12 miles away).
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Whitefish is further from the park (about 27 miles), but offers more amenities and transportation options.
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Park entry: Purchase your park pass in advance or at the entrance.
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Accommodation: Book your lodging well in advance, especially if staying inside the park.
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Activities: Plan your activities based on the season and your interests. Options include hiking, scenic drives, boat tours, and wildlife viewing.
By choosing Amtrak for your journey from Los Angeles to Glacier National Park, you’re not just reaching your destination – you’re embarking on a scenic adventure across America’s diverse landscapes. This unique travel experience allows you to witness the country’s natural beauty while enjoying the comfort and convenience of train travel.
References:
1. National Parks & Monuments Near Train Stations – Amtrak
2. Experience the Majesty of Glacier National Park by Rail – Amtrak
3. Train Routes in the Northwest – Amtrak