Embark on an unforgettable journey from Seattle to Glacier National Park with a scenic train tour. Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, where mountains, forests, and rivers intertwine to create a visual masterpiece. Enjoy the comfort of a train as you travel through diverse terrains, witnessing the raw beauty of nature. Whether it's a family vacation or a solo retreat, this train tour promises adventure and relaxation in one of the most stunning national parks in the United States.
Glacier National Park, known as the Crown of the Continent, is a destination filled with majestic mountains, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. Traveling by train offers a unique perspective, allowing for leisurely viewing of wildlife and natural wonders. These tours are meticulously planned to provide maximum comfort and unique sightseeing opportunities, ensuring that you don't miss the beautiful glaciers, dense forests, and open plains that define this region.
Upon arriving at Glacier National Park, a plethora of activities awaits visitors. From guided hiking tours to serene boat trips, there's something for everyone. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the park's dramatic landscapes. After exploring, travelers can unwind in cozy lodges or experience local cuisine. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, a train tour from Seattle to Glacier National Park offers the perfect getaway.
There are few travel experiences as timeless and majestic as arriving at Glacier National Park by train. Nestled in the rugged wilderness of northern Montana, this national treasure offers glacier-carved peaks, alpine lakes, and one of the most pristine ecosystems in North America. What makes the journey even more magical is that you can reach it by rail — echoing the golden age of American travel, when trains were more than transportation; they were part of the adventure.
Glacier National Park is uniquely served by Amtrak’s Empire Builder, a legendary route that stretches from Chicago to Seattle and Portland, cutting through the heart of the northern U.S. One of the route’s most scenic stretches is through Montana’s Rocky Mountains, where the train stops at East Glacier Park and West Glacier — two gateways to the park itself. As you near the park, the scenery shifts dramatically from flat plains to dramatic mountain ranges, with glimpses of snow-capped summits and dense pine forests greeting you right through the panoramic windows.
Unlike driving or flying, the train offers a rare chance to unplug and relax while the landscape rolls by. Lounge cars with wide windows and observation domes allow passengers to soak in views that would be difficult or dangerous to see while behind the wheel. You’ll glide past the Missouri River, cross the Continental Divide, and trace the southern edge of Glacier National Park itself — all without having to worry about gas stations, traffic, or parking permits. The rhythm of the train, paired with its iconic stops and historical significance, makes the journey as memorable as the destination.
Upon arrival, the train conveniently drops passengers near historic lodges like the Glacier Park Lodge and the Belton Chalet, both steeped in the history of early 20th-century rail tourism. Built by the Great Northern Railway, these lodges offer more than just lodging; they serve as an extension of the rail-travel charm, with wooden beams, stone fireplaces, and mountain views that take you back in time. From there, shuttle buses and park tours make it easy to access popular attractions like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald, and Many Glacier — all without needing a rental car.
Exploring the park itself is a nature lover’s dream. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, the park offers everything from easy lakeside walks to strenuous alpine climbs. Wildlife is abundant: you may spot mountain goats perched on cliffs, grizzly bears in meadows, or bald eagles soaring above the valleys. The glacier-fed lakes reflect towering peaks, while wildflowers blanket the meadows in summer. It’s no wonder Glacier has earned the nickname “Crown of the Continent” — and few places offer such dramatic scenery with such easy train access.
Timing your visit is important. The summer months — late June through early September — offer the most accessibility, as snow often lingers on high trails and roads well into June. The Empire Builder operates year-round, but during winter months, some park services and lodges may be closed. However, winter rail travel offers its own brand of magic: silent snowy forests, frozen waterfalls, and fewer crowds. Whether you visit in peak season or off-season, the train provides a calm, scenic way to get there without the stress of high-altitude driving.
Traveling to Glacier National Park by train is more than just a practical choice — it’s a nod to the past and a celebration of slow travel. It invites you to slow down, watch the land unfold mile by mile, and appreciate the journey as much as the destination. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure that begins the moment you board, there are few experiences that compare to discovering the wild beauty of Glacier by rail.