The Empire Builder is the only train out of Minneapolis to Whitefish, and it only runs once a day. Going west, it leaves the Twin Cities (St. Paul -Minneapolis Union Depot) at around midnight, reaching Whitefish (WFH) after about 24 hours, covering approximately 1,216 miles through Minnesota, North Dakota and Montana. The Empire Builder is a one-seat ride and passes through Glacier National Park.
The Empire Builder is Amtrak’s longest and one of the busiest routes. It connects the upper Midwest to the Pacific Northwest. It is the most scenic route to Glacier National Park and Northwest Montana’s lakes and mountain towns.
Why Take the Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish?
Many find travel by train to be more comfortable, more flexible and even more scenic than travel by plane. Here are the top three reasons many travelers prefer train travel:
- Direct Seat to Destination. The train is by far the more direct option. Traveling by train means no connecting flights, no rental cars, and no airport transfers. You board in the Twin Cities and get off in Downtown Whitefish.
- Picture-Postcard Scenic Route. There are stunning scenes of Minnesota’s lake country, the wide-open plains of North Dakota, the Missouri River country of Montana, and the Rocky Mountain foothills near Glacier National Park. Amtrak’s Sightseeing Lounge Car has large windows to take it all in.
- More Space, More Comfort. Superliner Coach seats give travelers more space and more comfort than the cramped seats on airlines. Each seat has a leg rest, and travelers can walk around, visit the lounge or dine in the dining car.
- Liberal baggage rules. Amtrak allows more free carry-on baggage than most airlines. This is good if you want to bring ski or hiking gear to Montana.
- Overnight travel without a hotel night. Because the westbound trip goes through the night and day, you can sleep on the train and save a hotel night. You can also do this if you stay in a sleeping car.
- Less stress. There’s no waiting at baggage claim or security, and no driving exhaustion. You won’t spend a day behind the wheel on the highway.
- Smaller environmental footprint. Rail travel usually creates a smaller carbon footprint per passenger than flying or driving.
- The train is the trip. Many passengers relax on the train itself. You can watch the sunrise over the prairie and arrive in Montana relaxed.
Which Amtrak Trains Run From Minneapolis to Whitefish?
There is only one train on this route, and it’s Amtrak’s Empire Builder. It operates daily between the Windy City and the Pacific Northwest.
Trains 7 and 8
Train 7: The westbound train from Chicago to Spokane, where the train splits. One section continues to Seattle, the other to Portland. This is the train you take from Minneapolis to Whitefish.
Train 8: Eastbound from Seattle to Chicago. This is the train you take from Whitefish to Minneapolis.
(Trains 27 and 28 are the Portland sections of the same train. They run combined with Trains 7 and 8 across the route that includes Whitefish.)
What station is “Minneapolis”?
This is a critical point for first-time passengers. The Empire Builder does not make any stops in Minneapolis. The train stops at the historic Saint Paul-Minneapolis Union Depot in Saint Paul, Minnesota (station code MSP). To reach the Union Depot, Minneapolis passengers need to take Metro Transit’s Green Line light rail or a taxi or rideshare.
Equipment. The Empire Builder uses double-decker Superliner cars. Trains have coach and sleeping cars, a dining car, a Sightseeing Lounge car and a Café. Boarding is by reserved seat or room.
Other trains in the area. The other train that runs between Chicago and Saint Paul is the Borealis. The Borealis, however, does not continue to the west and does not serve the Whitefish route.
| Detail | Information |
| Train name | Empire Builder |
| Westbound train number | 7 |
| Eastbound train number | 8 |
| Frequency | Daily in each direction |
| Departure station | Saint Paul-Minneapolis Union Depot (MSP) |
| Arrival station | Historic Whitefish Depot (WFH) |
| Operator | Amtrak |
| Seating | Reserved coach seats and sleeping car rooms |
Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
The Empire Builder operates just once each way every day. Since there’s just one departure, timing becomes very crucial. With the latest schedules published by Amtrak, here’s what to expect when taking the westbound train.
| Station | Westbound Time |
| Saint Paul-Minneapolis (MSP) | Arrives 10:56 PM, departs 11:13 PM (Central Time) |
| Historic Whitefish Depot (WFH) | Arrives 10:06 PM, departs 10:21 PM (Mountain Time) |
The eastbound return schedule looks like this:
| Station | Eastbound Time |
| Historic Whitefish Depot (WFH) | Arrives 7:11 AM, departs 7:26 AM (Mountain Time) |
| Saint Paul-Minneapolis (MSP) | Arrives 8:33 AM, departs 8:50 AM (Central Time) |
Important notes about the schedule:
- Time zones do change. Whitefish is on Mountain Time, an hour behind Minneapolis/St. Paul. Double-check pick-ups and hotel arrangements. Automatic adjustments on your phone may not account for the time zone change.
- Timetables can also change. Amtrak adjusts schedules for multiple reasons and updates their changes seasonally. You will want to double-check your travel date and times directly on Amtrak.com or using the Amtrak app.
- Freight congestion also causes delays. The Empire Builder shares the tracks with BNSF freight trains west of St. Paul. This means that Whitefish-bound trains can run very late. As it is, the scheduled arrival time in Whitefish is near 10 p.m.; a further delay would make it after midnight.
- There are no daylight departures. You will need to make alternate plans in order to travel to Whitefish during daylight hours.
- Seasonal Changes. Some Montana stops change by season. During the summer, East Glacier Park is on the train;n, during the winter, Browning is on the train instead. Whitefish is served year-round.
Practical tip. Because the westbound departure from Saint Paul is close to midnight, arrive at least 45 minutes before departure. You will want time to check in, drop off any checked baggage and settle in before boarding.
Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
The westbound trip is about 24 hours total to cover 1,216 miles. Accounting for the time zone change, the actual time from departure in Saint Paul (11:13 PM Central) to the arrival in Whitefish (10:06 PM Mountain) is about 23 hours 53 minutes.
The eastbound trip from Whitefish to Saint Paul is about 24 hours as well.
| Journey Detail | Approximate Figure |
| Distance by rail | About 1,216 miles |
| Scheduled westbound travel time | About 24 hours |
| Scheduled eastbound travel time | About 24 hours |
| Time zones crossed | Central to Mountain |
| Number of nights on board | 1 |
What’s it like to spend 24 hours on a train?
The Twin Cities-bound Empire Builder stops at many small towns, plus makes crew and service stops, breaks at Minot, ND, and shares tracks with freight. All that can add up to lots of time.
What does 24 hours on a train feel like?
Once on the train, travelers discover that the journey isn’t as bad as they might expect. Travelers depart the Cities at night, and after stops along the way, eastern Minnesota and the sunrise over the plains, travelers are full from breakfast and lunch, as the train slowly crosses Montana to Whitefish.
How to make the time pass comfortably:
- You can bring books, music, and downloaded entertainment.
- You should definitely spend time in the Sightseeing Lounge, especially during the scenic Montana segment.
- You can also walk the platform during longer stops, like Minot, if a crew member allows it.
- You can have a meal in the dining car. The change of pace is a nice break from the monotony of the dining car food.
- You should also bring a neck pillow, eye mask, and blanket.
Delays. Allow flexibility. A late arrival in Whitefish is common enough that you should not schedule anything critical for the first night, such as a tight tour pickup or a restaurant reservation.
Historic Whitefish Depot (WFH) for Passengers
The Historic Whitefish Depot is the Amtrak Empire Builder’s stop for Whitefish, Montana. It is a well-known stop along the Amtrak route.
- Basic information
- Name: Historic Whitefish Depot
- Amtrak station code: WFH
- Address: 500 Depot Street, Whitefish, Montana
- Owner: Stumptown Historical Society
- Time zone: Mountain Time
Importance. According to Amtrak statistics, the station in Whitefish is the busiest in Montana and serves an average of 170 passengers daily. It is the Empire Builder’s busiest stop between St. Paul and the Pacific Coast. During fiscal year 2025, Amtrak stated that 42,484 passengers utilized this stop.
A historic building. The depot was built in the late 1920s as part of the Great Northern Railway. Because Whitefish developed as a railroad town, the depot is a landmark. Many visitors photograph the depot upon arrival.
Stop duration. The Empire Builder stops for approximately 15-20 minutes at Whitefish, which allows passengers to board and disembark and gives the crew time to handle baggage and do service.
Getting around from the depot. Many restaurants, shops, galleries, and lodging options are within walking distance of the depot in Whitefish. The town’s lake and nearby ski resort are a short drive away. Other transportation options to the town and lake are available, including taxis, rideshares, hotel shuttles and personal vehicles. However,h some of these options may not be available at all hours of the night. Plan your transportation if you’re arriving near 10 p.m. or later.
Station amenities. Passenger services at Whitefish are limited because the station building is historic. Check the Amtrak website for information about services at the station.
Tips for late arrivals. If your train is expected to arrive after midnight, contact your hotel to let them know you will be arriving late to check in.
Key Stops Between Minneapolis and Whitefish
The Empire Builder makes several stops between St. Paul and Whitefish. Here’s the approximate westbound schedule with stop times based on the latest timetable. All times shown are local to each station.
| Stop | State | Approximate Westbound Time |
| Saint Paul-Minneapolis (MSP) | MN | Departs 11:13 PM |
| St. Cloud | MN | 1:09 AM |
| Staples | MN | 2:10 AM |
| Detroit Lakes | MN | 3:06 AM |
| Fargo | ND | About 4:13 AM |
| Grand Forks | ND | 5:34 AM |
| Devils Lake | ND | 6:59 AM |
| Rugby | ND | 7:53 AM |
| Minot | ND | 9:06 AM (longer stop, departs 9:51 AM) |
| Stanley | ND | 10:46 AM |
| Williston | ND | 11:59 AM |
| Wolf Point | MT | 12:34 PM (Mountain Time) |
| Glasgow | MT | 1:20 PM |
| Malta | MT | 2:20 PM |
| Havre | MT | 3:54 PM (departs 4:15 PM) |
| Shelby | MT | 6:13 PM |
| Cut Bank | MT | 6:51 PM |
| East Glacier Park (summer only) | MT | 7:48 PM |
| Essex | MT | 8:44 PM |
| West Glacier | MT | 9:27 PM |
| Whitefish (WFH) | MT | 10:06 PM |
- Fargo, North Dakota. Largest city in North Dakota and a great wake-up call for prairie scenery.
- Minot, North Dakota. Longer service stop. Get off to stretch your legs.
- Williston, North Dakota. Bakken Oil region. Eastern edge of the plains of Montana.
- Havre, Montana. Large crew change and service stop in Montana’s Hi-Line country.
- Shelby, Cut Bank, and East Glacier Park. Small Montana towns that lead into the Rocky Mountain front. East Glacier Park, served in summer, is a gateway to the eastern side of Glacier National Park.
- Essex and West Glacier. Essex sits deep in the mountains near the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. West Glacier is the main train stop for the west entrance of Glacier National Park.
- Timing. Mountain scenery around Glacier National Park is some of the prettiest in the lower 48, but it’s best seen Westbound in the evening. In the summer, you may get daylight through part of it, but in other seasons it is dark by the time you get through.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Amtrak ticket prices change based on demand, the date, and how far out you book your tickets. With that said, prices on websites (like this one) are just a general guide. To get the most accurate price for your date, check Amtrak.com.
| Accommodation | Typical Range | Notes |
| Coach seat | Roughly $90 to $250 or more | Cheapest when booked early; rises close to departure and in peak summer |
| Roomette (1 to 2 people) | Often several hundred dollars to $1,000 or more | Includes private room and meals in the dining car |
| Bedroom | Higher than roomette | More space, in-room toilet and shower |
This is a guide to help create a budget, with approximate ranges. Expect higher costs during peak summer and holiday times, and especially around Glacier National Park.
Ways to save money:
- Book early. Amtrak releases tickets about 11 months ahead. Lower fare classes often sell out first.
- Be flexible on dates. Travel mid-week and during the shoulder season (May and early June and September) will often be less than summer travel (July and August).
- Use Amtrak’s fare calendar. You can see prices for travel over a number of days, which can help plan fares for even lower prices.
- Choose coach. The seats in coach are reclining and have a leg rest, so they aren’t too bad for a more comfortable seat for a 6-7 hour ride. It’s a much cheaper option than other classes as well.
- Check discounts. Discounts for kids and seniors are usually offered, but check the site for current eligibility and terms.
- Join Amtrak Guest Rewards. It’s a great program for earning points toward future trips.
- Look out for specials. Promotional prices aren’t common, but if you are flexible and can plan your trip far enough in advance, you could save some money.
- Pack food. Because meals in the dining car can add up, especially on a long trip, coach passengers can save money by bringing snacks and sandwiches.
- Check prices for one-way trips and round-trips. You might be surprised that two one-way trips can be cheaper than a round-trip.
- Sleeper car fare. The price of a room in the sleeper car includes meals in the dining car, and with the price difference between coach and the room, it could work out to be a better deal. Also check the rules, because they can change.
- Factors to think about. You might have to account for a hotel stay in Whitefish (where the train picks you up), transportation to/from the depot, checking a bag, the café car, and the meals you eat.
Onboard Amenities on the Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish
Because this is a long-distance train, amenities on the Empire Builder are extensive.
- Coach. Passengers in coach sit in reclining seats that are wider and more comfortable than airline seats. They are outfitted with individual reading lights and tray tables, and armrests that are adjustable and provide a comfortably supported recline. Leg rests and power outlets are also located at or near the seats. The upper level of the coach car generally has a quieter feel and better views. The lower level is closer to the restrooms and luggage.
- Sleeping cars. Passengers in sleeping cars have more options when it comes to their lodging for the night. Options include:
- Roomette. A small private compartment for one or two that has a convertible bunk bed.
- Bedroom. A larger private compartment for one or two that has a convertible bunk bed, a sofa, a private toilet and a private shower.
- Family Bedroom. A larger compartment for a family of up to four that has bunk beds.
- Accessible Bedroom. A private compartment that is large enough for one or two travelers with limited mobility and is located on the lower level.
- Sleeping cars. All sleeping car passengers have an attendant, access to a shower on the car, and complimentary meals in the dining car.
- Dining Car. The dining car serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu that includes salads, desserts and entrées. Coach passengers can also dine in the dining car for a fee.
- Café and snacks. A café located near the coach cars serves light meals and snacks at a cost that is much lower than dining car meals.
- Sightseeing Lounge. This car has oversized windows and seats that face outward, so it’s the best spot on the train to see the scenic views, including Glacier National Park.
- Wi-Fi and Connectivity. Wi-Fi may not be available or may be spotty. Cell service will be limited in rural areas of North Dakota and Montana. Make sure to download anything you may need before your trip.
- Power and Comfort. Plugs are located in the seats and rooms, so make sure to bring a charger or a power bank nd headphones.
- Baggage. Passengers are allowed two personal items and two carry-on items. Two checked bags are allowed, but confirm this at both St. Paul and Whitefish stations, as rules may vary.
- Accessibility. Contact Amtrak in advance to ensure they can best accommodate your needs.
- Safety and Rules. Staff will announce stops. Longer breaks are the only times you can leave the train. Always listen to the crew about how long the train will be stopping so you do not miss your train.
Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish: Train vs. Other Travel Options
You have to decide what’s most important to you. This is a general comparison of the different types of trains. Costs and times are approximate.
| Factor | Train (Empire Builder) | Flight | Driving | Bus |
| Travel time | About 24 hours | About 2.5 to 4 hours (plus airport time) | About 16 to 18 hours | Often longer than the train, with transfers |
| Distance | About 1,216 rail miles | About 900 air miles | About 1,100 road miles | Similar to driving |
| Transfers | None | Possible, depending on schedule | None | Often several |
| Comfort | High; space and a lounge car | Moderate | Depends on your vehicle | Lower |
| Scenery | Excellent | Limited | Good, but you are driving | Moderate |
| Cost | Moderate, varies by date | Varies widely | Fuel, food, lodging | Often lower |
| Luggage | Generous | Fees apply | Unlimited | Limited |
| Overnight on board | Yes | No | No (usually requires a hotel) | Yes |
| Environmental impact | Lower per passenger | Higher | Higher if traveling alone | Lower |
When the train is the best choice:
- You want to take the more scenic, less direct route.
- You are taking a long trip and need to make as few stops as possible.
- You need to save on lodging and don’t mind making the long trip on the train.
- You are taking a long trip and need to find a way for your family to pass the time and not get on each other’s nerves.
When flying or driving is the better choice:
- You are limited on time. Taking a direct or one-stop flight to and from Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell will take a lot less time.
- You want to be able to come and go as you please. The train only runs once a day.
- You need a car in Montana. If you want to explore Glacier National Park independently, a rental car may also be helpful.
A hybrid option. Some people take the train one way for the scenic views, and fly back to save time. Because the train runs daily, you can easily mix the modes.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish Route
- Be aware of your position. The departure is from the Saint Paul Union Depot, not from downtown Minneapolis. Be sure to allot enough time to cover the distance across the metro area, especially in the evenings.
- Be on time. To ensure you make your departure time, plan to be at your departure location 45 to 60 minutes ahead of time.
- Be prepared. Have a small, overnight bag with you to carry toiletries, meds, snacks, a phone charger, and a sweater. The large bag goes either in the checked baggage car or on the lower level luggage racks.
- Dress for changing conditions. Some cars run cool at night and warm in the sun.
- Bring a kit. A neck pillow, a light eye mask and earplugs all improve the quality of your seat in coach.
- Be prepared to entertain yourself. Don’t depend on Wi-Fi or cell coverage for entertainment.
- Sit where you can see the sights. The left side of the train is preferred on the westbound trip. A seat on the upper level offers the best sights.
- Be mindful of your stop. Whitefish is a night arrival, so set an alarm and listen for announcements.
- Look for delays. Use the Amtrak app for real-time info and share the status with your hotel.
- Plan for tips and eats. Stop by the dining car and café and keep cash and cards on you.
- Think about lodging. Book a place in Whitefish in advance, as summer fills up fast.
- Know your stops. Get off only at longer stops and stay near the train.
- Ask staff. Amtrak crews answer questions about stops, meals and scenery.
- For families, think games, snacks and activities. Consider a Family Bedroom if your budget permits.
- For travelers with mobility needs. Book an accessible room early, and notify Amtrak about your situation and assistance you may need.
What to Do When You Arrive at the Historic Whitefish Depot (WFH)
Whitefish is a great base for exploration of Northwest Montana and a great choice for the start of your vacation.
Westbound trains arrive late, so the first thing you need is a place to stay. The closest lodging options to the train station are in and near the downtown area. You can walk, or take a short ride, to check in.
In Town:
- Whitefish downtown has a walkable scenic area with local shops, art galleries, restaurants, breweries and coffee shops.
- Stumptown Historical Society. The Society owns the depot and works to preserve the history of the area, so it’s a good place to learn about railroad history.
- The historic depot. A beautiful old railroad station worth a stop to appreciate the architecture.
Outdoor Activities:
- Whitefish Mountain Resort has downhill skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and scenic lift rides. In the summer, they offer a mountain biking experience.
- Whitefish Lake. Great for swimming and boating in the summer, and fishing year-round.
- There are over 35 miles of biking, hiking and running trails connected by the Whitefish Trail.
- Glacier National Park is a little over a 30-minute drive from Whitefish. Many of the visitors take a shuttle, guided tour or rent a car. Check the status of Going-to-the-Sun Road with the NPS before you go.
Seasonal Events:
- Winter: Festivals and skiing.
- Spring: Relatively quiet and less expensive.
- Summer: Hiking, festivals, and lots of visitors.
- Fall: Fewer crowds, and nice colors.
Getting around. Downtown is very walkable. In peak season, you’ll want to plan to get a rental car, shuttle or guided tour to the trails and resort.
Continuing your trip. If you’re taking the Empire Builder, you can get off in Whitefish to stretch, and then continue your journey west to Spokane, Seattle, or Portland.
Booking Your Train From Minneapolis to Whitefish Amtrak Ticket
Booking takes only a few minutes.
- Site. Go to Amtrak.com or launch the Amtrak app.
- Enter your stations. For origin, select Saint Paul-Minneapolis, MN (MSP). For destination, enter Whitefish, MT (WFH).
- Select the date. Use flexible date view to compare prices.
- Choose the Empire Builder. It’s the only direct train on this route.
- Pick your accommodations. You can choose from Coach, Roomette or Bedroom.
- Add Passengers. Select the passengers’ categories to see the relevant prices (adults, kids, seniors).
- Add discounts and/or points. Enter a valid discount code or use your Guest Rewards points if you have any.
- Choose your seat or room. The Empire Builder is a reserved train so you will get a specific seat or room.
You’ve booked a ticket! Now, pay and confirm your reservation. Be sure to save your confirmation number and download your e-ticket to your app. It’s there for you to show on your phone when you travel.
Booking Tips:
- Book in advance for the best rates, especially for summer travel.
- Evaluate one-way and round-trip fares to see if they differ.
- Know your fare rules.
- Review the baggage policy.
- Check station hours and accessibility.
Other methods of booking. You can purchase tickets via the phone with Amtrak’s reservation line, at staffed stations, or through travel agents.
Cancelling and changing. Know the rules associated with your fare before you purchase your ticket. You can make adjustments through your account on Amtrak’s website or app. Re-check your train’s status the day you travel and confirm your boarding info.
Best Time to Travel From Minneapolis to Whitefish by Train
The best time depends on what you want from the trip.
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
| Summer (June to August) | Warm weather, long daylight, Glacier National Park fully accessible, lakes and festivals | Highest fares, busiest trains, early lodging sellouts |
| Fall (September to October) | Fall colors, fewer crowds, comfortable weather | Shorter days; some park services reduce |
| Winter (December to March) | Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort, snowy scenery, winter festivals | Cold, snow can delay trains, shorter daylight |
| Spring (April to early June) | Lower prices, quieter towns, waterfalls and green landscapes | Some mountain roads still closed, changeable weather |
- Best overall: Most visitors like June late through September for pleasant weather and park access. If you want a lower volume and price, take the September option. December to March is the period for skiing.
- Best day of the week: Departures in the middle of the week are cheaper and less busy. Compare the departure dates available at Amtrak.
- Best direction for scenery: Eastbound trains leaving Whitefish in the morning give views of the Glacier Park area for the entire year. Summer long days give better views for the westbound trains.
- Weather and delays: Heavy winter storms and freight traffic cause delays, so January and February require some flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a direct train from Minneapolis to Whitefish?
Yes. Amtrak’s Empire Builder goes from St. Paul-Minneapolis Union Depot to Historic Whitefish Depot without any transfers.
2. How long is the train ride from Minneapolis to Whitefish?
The current published schedule shows the westbound trip taking about 24 hours to cover 1,216 miles. The return trip is the same.
3. What time does the train leave Minneapolis for Whitefish?
The latest published schedule shows the westbound Empire Builder leaving Saint Paul Union Depot at about 11:13 p.m. Central Time. Always confirm the time for your travel day on Amtrak.com.
4. What time does the train get to Whitefish?
The current published schedule shows it arriving in Whitefish at about 10:06 p.m. Mountain Time the next day.
5. Does the train stop in Minneapolis?
The Empire Builder doesn’t stop in Minneapolis. It stops in Saint Paul, and travelers can connect from Minneapolis using other means of transportation.
6. How much are tickets from Minneapolis to Whitefish?
Coach fares are usually between $100 and $200, each way, and can be more during holidays and other busy periods. Sleeping car fares are considerably more. Amtrak.com shows exact fares based on the travel day.
7. Is it possible to sleep on the train?
Yes. Many of our passengers sleep comfortably in coach with a pillow and blanket. If you are looking for a flat bed or more privacy, the Roomette or Bedroom is also an option.
8. Is food available on the train?
Yes. The dining car is open for meals, and a café car is also open for snacks. Sleeping car tickets do include a meal. You are also allowed to bring food on the train.
9. Is the train a good way to get to Glacier National Park?
Yes. The Empire Builder serves multiple stations that are close to Glacier National Park, including West Glacier and East Glacier Park in the summer. Whitefish is also a close station to the park. Plan your transportation to and around the park in advance.
10. What do you do if the train is running late?
Freight gets priority on the rails, so expect delays on the Empire Builder. Track your train on the Amtrak app. Let your hotel know of your expected late arrival. Avoid planning things right after your arrival.
