Glacier National Park: Rail & Drive - Chicago to Seattle

Make your way to Chicago's Union Station to board Amtrak's Empire Builder. While Coach seating is standard for this overnight journey, you may choose to upgrade to a Roomette or Bedroom for increased privacy and the perks that come with being a Sleeper Car guest, such as included meals. The journey ahead presents the hues and vistas of the Midwest and begins with the Windy City's tall buildings fading into the backdrop as the train pulls out of the station and begins its northwesterly route through Wisconsin and Minnesota. Overnight train.

After passing through the vast prairie lands of North Dakota and entering Montana, the Empire Builder arrives in Whitefish this evening. Transfer to your hotel on your own for a night of relaxation. Overnight Whitefish.

The day is yours to set out into Whitefish and the surrounding area at your own pace. Best of all, your freedom comes with four wheels, as a rental car is included for your use during your time in Montana. Transfer on your own to the Avis car rental facility to pick up your intermediate vehicle, then spend the day at leisure, soaking in everything this beautiful destination has to offer. Perhaps you will explore Downtown Whitefish, with its art galleries, interesting boutique shops and historic buildings - all set against a backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountains. You may wish to visit one of the surrounding lakes, such as Whitefish or Flathead, or check out some of the local hiking hotspots. Breweries abound throughout the region, as do award-winning restaurants. Overnight Whitefish.

Get your camera ready; a day of breathtaking scenery, amazing wildlife and unbelievable adventure lies ahead with today's tour of Glacier National Park. Meet the excursion team at the Apgar Visitor Center on the west side of Glacier National Park. Here, board a bright red, soft-topped Red Jammer bus for an unforgettable look at the lakes, mountains, valleys, glaciers, meadows, and wildlife of the Crown of the Continent. This full-day tour follows the Going-to-the-Sun Road through Lake McDonald Valley, St. Mary Valley and Swiftcurrent Valley. Revel in sweeping vistas from not only the road but also from the scenic lookouts along the way. Following the tour, the remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight Whitefish.

Venture back into Glacier National Park this morning for a new perspective on the spectacular surroundings. You are treated to a cruise on Lake McDonald aboard the DeSmet, a historic wooden boat that launches from the shore near Lake McDonald Lodge. Towering, snow-capped mountains envelop the lake, reflecting off the pristine water and creating views that must be seen to be believed. Whether you choose the upper or lower deck of the boat, watch as beauty unfolds all around you, from the emerald-hued forests that grace the base of the mountains to the bright blue skies. But it is not just above that holds incredible views; do not forget to look down. The water of Lake McDonald is incredibly clear due to the cold year-round temperatures. In some areas, you can see all the way down to the bottom, which is strewn with naturally occurring rainbow rocks - stones of all different shades of blue, green, and maroon.

Following the tour, you may wish to continue your explorations in Glacier National Park independently before returning your rental car and making your way to Whitefish's alpine-style Amtrak station, where the Empire Builder awaits. Settle into your chosen accommodations for another overnight journey, this time through the Pacific Northwest to Seattle. Mountain scenes and lush forest views punctuate this portion of the route; keep watch until the sun sets beyond the peaks. Overnight train.

After passing through the Cascade Mountains, looking upon volcanoes topped with fluffy snow and enjoying the ambiance of quiet forests surrounding the tracks, Mt. Rainer comes into view this morning as the Empire Builder nears Seattle. Reflect on your time in Glacier National Park and the wonders you laid witness to as the train pulls into the station and your journey concludes.

You are free to continue your vacation independently. Ask a rail specialist about extending your stay and add a day trip to the coastal Olympic National Park or see Mt Rainier up close and personal. Ready for some cityscapes? Consider a food tour through Pikes Place Market or spend the day at Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Space Needle.