Train Service
Table of Contents
Start Your Planning With These Local Businesses
Local Businesses
All Aboard for Adventure: Your Family's Ultimate Guide to Train Travel to Glacier National Park
There's something wonderfully simple about boarding the train to Glacier National Park and letting the world slow down for a while. Once the Empire Builder slips alongside the Missouri River and that huge Montana sky opens up, even the most restless kids usually forget to ask, "Are we there yet?" and just melt into the view.
This guide explains what to expect, how the train works, where to get off, which trails and lakes are worth your time, and a few simple tips that make the whole trip smoother. Think of it as advice from a friend who has done the trip before and wants yours to go well.
Why Take the Train Instead of Drive?
Driving to Glacier is beautiful, but it's also long and someone always ends up navigating or hunting for the next bathroom. On the train, all of that disappears.
You get actual time together. Time to watch the scenery roll by. Time to unplug. Time to simply sit with your kids without rushing from one thing to the next. When was the last time a travel day felt like that?
And here's the best part. Glacier sits right on one of Amtrak's most scenic routes. The Empire Builder takes you straight to the park from Chicago, Seattle, or Portland. No traffic. No mountain passes. Just an easy ride with wide-open views of the Crown of the Continent.
Empire Builder Sleeping Options
Here's the fast version, because choosing rooms is the moment when most families stare at Amtrak's website and get a little overwhelmed.
Coach Seats: Great for a shorter hop. Tons of legroom, but no private space.
Roomette: Sleeps two. Cozy, efficient, and great if you want privacy without going full splurge.
Bedroom: Sleeps two adults and one kid. You get real space to stretch, plus daytime seating.
Family Bedroom (the parent favorite): Sleeps two adults + two kids (ages 2–12). You get:
- Two upper + two lower beds
- Space to move around
- Big picture windows (kids love these)
- Access to restrooms and showers in the same car
Accessible Bedroom: A larger layout for travelers needing accessibility features.
Every private room includes an attendant, linens, outlets, climate controls, and—huge bonus—complimentary meals.
And yes, you can bring snacks. Most families do.
Bringing a Pet?
Amtrak allows small dogs and cats on many routes. You'll want to double-check carrier rules and reservation requirements, but it's absolutely doable.
Where You Get Off for Glacier
Glacier is unique because trains stop right next to the park.
West Glacier Station → Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, Trail of the Cedars, Going-to-the-Sun Road (west side)
East Glacier Park Station → Glacier Park Lodge, Two Medicine, and the quieter, more rugged east side
Most families head for the west side first because it's convenient and great for kids. The east side has a quieter, more spacious feel, and many visitors are surprised by how much they love it.
Once You're There: Your Family's Glacier Game Plan
West Glacier & Apgar Village
This is where most first-timers naturally begin, and it's easy to see why.
Lake McDonald
Your kids will probably start skipping rocks before you even get your backpack on. The water is clear, cool, and perfect on summer afternoons. You can rent kayaks, canoes, or even a small powerboat. The mountains are so picturesque they look painted on.
Trail of the Cedars → Avalanche Lake
If you want one hike that works for almost everyone, pick this one.
- Wide boardwalk
- Shaded forest of huge cedar trees
- Streams and bridges
- Ends at a turquoise lake straight out of a postcard
Even little hikers usually manage this one.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
This iconic road earns every bit of its hype. If you don't want to drive the tight, winding stretches yourself, book a Red Jammer Bus tour. The roll-back roof and vintage feel make it extra fun for kids, and you can focus on the views instead of the switchbacks.
At Logan Pass (the high point), you often spot mountain goats right near the trail.
East Glacier & Two Medicine
If the west side feels like summer camp, the east side feels like stepping back in time.
Two Medicine
Many families consider this the calm highlight of their trip. Hop on a lake boat to cross the water, then take the short, kid-friendly hike to Running Eagle Falls—a picturesque trail that leads to a magical split waterfall.
Horseback Riding or Llama Treks
If you want a real Western moment, this is it. Gentle horses make it easy for kids, and llama treks (yes, llamas!) are a huge hit for older kids who want something unique.
Glacier Park Lodge
Even if you're not staying here, walk inside. The lobby beams are so massive even the kids will be impressed.
Beyond the Park: Small Towns Worth Wandering
You'll naturally spend time in the park, but these nearby towns are perfect for afternoons or rest days.
Whitefish: Alpine Slide, Zipline tour, Strider Bike Park for younger riders. Parents love the cafés and shops; kids love the action.
Columbia Falls: Home to llama trekking and ziplines. Simple, fun, and close to West Glacier.
Kalispell: Great for a rainy-day break: escape rooms, racing simulators, indoor fun.
Hungry Horse: Stop for huckleberry ice cream. Just do it.
Flathead River Rafting: If your kids like water rides, they'll love rafting here. Outfitters make it safe and fun for all ages, and calmer family-friendly floats are easy to book.
Wildlife: Your Family Photo Safari
Kids often remember seeing the wildlife, like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or a beaver in the water. Keep your distance, carry bear spray, and treat each sighting with respect. Glacier's animals are wild, and that's part of what makes the park special.
Thinking About a Winter Visit?
The quiet, snowy, and cozy atmosphere make it a truly unique world of its own. Families come for:
- Skiing at Whitefish Mountain
- Snowshoeing
- Sleigh-ride dinners (a surprise hit with kids)
The train still runs even in the snow. It's one of the most beautiful winter rides in the country.
Packing Tips From Families Who've Done This Trip
- Pack layers. Montana can swing from frost to T-shirt weather in a few hours.
- Bring rain jackets, sun hats, and sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottles for everyone.
- Comfortable walking or hiking shoes.
- Plenty of snacks for the train.
- A small blanket or comfy clothes for sleeping onboard.
- Binoculars for wildlife (kids love these).
- A camera—this trip produces memory-making moments constantly.
You can even borrow a "Park Family Backpack" at Apgar or St. Mary Visitor Centers—full of kid-friendly nature tools.
Where Families Like to Stay
Inside the park:
- Glacier Park Lodge
- Lake McDonald Lodge
- Many Glacier Hotel
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
- Village Inn at Apgar and nearby cabins
Outside the park (great if you want kitchens, space, or amenities):
- Hotels, cabins, vacation rentals
- Under Canvas Glacier
- West Glacier KOA
- Ranch-style stays
- Pet-friendly options everywhere
If planning feels overwhelming, Amtrak's vacation packages bundle rail tickets + lodging + tours. Families love these because they remove the "Did I miss something?" stress.
Making the Most of Your Time
This is the big secret: you don't need to do everything.
Pick a few anchor experiences such as Lake McDonald, a hike, or a Red Jammer tour. Then leave space for the spontaneous stuff like rock skipping or wildlife sightings. Sometimes the unplanned moments are the ones that end up being the favorites.
Quick FAQs for Stress-Free Planning
How early should we book?
6–12 months ahead is best, especially for Family Bedrooms.
Are meals included?
Yes, if you book a private room. Coach passengers can buy food onboard or pack their own.
Are kids allowed?
Absolutely. Under age two usually ride free as lap infants.
Is it safe?
Very. Amtrak staff, the enclosed environment, and the slower pace give families peace of mind.
Best activities for younger kids?
Trail of the Cedars, lake time, Strider Bike Park, horseback riding with gentle horses.
Best activities for teens?
Rafting, longer hikes, ziplining, llama treks, kayaking.
Ready to Ride?
Taking the train can be one of the most relaxing and memorable ways to explore Glacier. Plan ahead, allow for surprises, and enjoy the journey itself. Years later, your kids may remember not just the destination, but the experience of traveling through the park by train.