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Seattle, WA, USA to Helena, MT, USA from $66: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Seattle, United States of America
to
Helena, United States of America

How to Get from Seattle to Helena: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$66 - Bus, TrainBest price
1316 kmDistance
3h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Seattle to Helena with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  12m
Estimated price
$154-866
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
21h 
Estimated price
$66-324
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1316 km
Duration: 3h 12m

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Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  24m
Estimated price
$100-160
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Traveling From Seattle to Helena

Traveling from Seattle to Helena offers a fascinating contrast between Seattle's bustling urban environment and Helena's serene, historical charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Helena

Helena boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Reeder's Alley
• Historic gold rush architecture
• Quaint shops and art galleries
Downtown Helena
• Vibrant dining and nightlife scene
• Home to local breweries and boutiques
Upper West Side
• Scenic views of the mountains
• Access to walking trails and parks

Best Times To Visit Helena's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Helena's attractions.

Montana State Capitol
Visit in the morning on weekdays to enjoy quieter tours.
Holter Museum of Art
Fridays during Gallery Night offer a vibrant community experience.
Reeder's Alley
Early spring or fall brings fewer tourists and pleasant weather.

Helena Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Helena experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers and cold winters. Late spring and early fall offer the best conditions for visitors, as mild temperatures enhance outdoor exploration and scenic views.

Dining Experience in Helena

Try the bison burger at the Lewis & Clark Brewery, a local favorite known for its rich, hearty flavors that reflect Montana's ranching heritage. Unlike Seattle's seafood-centric cuisine, dining in Helena immerses you in a rustic atmosphere, showcasing local ingredients and a relaxed vibe.

Seattle - Helena operators

Explore transport companies operating between Seattle and Helena, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Helena (HLN)

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$1542-1543
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Spokane to Shelby Amtrak Station

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$1544-15440
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Seattle to Spokane Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$8664-8665
Contact phone
+1 406-470-0727
Website
northern.rural-transit.com

Bus from Shelby Amtrak Station to Great Falls Transfer Center

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$8666-0
Contact phone
+1 208-656-8824
Website
saltlakeexpress.com

Bus from Great Falls Transfer Center to Helena, MT

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$1548-100

Seattle to Helena: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Seattle and Helena offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Seattle to Helena covering a distance of 591 miles through stunning landscapes and picturesque views. 💸 The cost of driving from Seattle to Helena ranges between $100 to $160, offering an affordable and flexible travel option for adventurers looking to explore the great outdoors. ⏱️ With an estimated driving time of 9 hours and 24 minutes, the journey allows for intermittent stops at charming towns and attractions along the way, making the drive both enjoyable and memorable.
Average price
$100 - $160
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Seattle to Helena. This 648-mile route includes 2 transfers to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
🛫 Flying from Seattle to Helena is a convenient option with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 34 minutes offered by Alaska Airlines, Inc. ✈️ The journey covers a distance of about 530 miles and takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes to reach the picturesque city of Helena from Seattle. 💸 Depending on the time of booking, travelers can expect flight prices to range between $154 to $866 for a one-way trip between Helena and Seattle.
Departure Point
Seattle Airport
Arrival Point
Helena Airport
🚌 Route 1: Traveling from Seattle to Helena by bus takes around 1 day and 19 hours. This 646-mile journey includes 2 transfers, with stops in Spokane, Billings, and Great Falls before reaching Helena. Agencies like Greyhound and Jefferson Lines operate these routes for a convenient travel experience. 🌲 Route 2: Another option for the Seattle to Helena bus trip is a 1 day and 19-hour journey covering 648 miles. With transfers in Spokane, Butte, and Great Falls, travelers can enjoy a scenic ride through the Pacific Northwest and Montana. FlixBus and Jefferson Lines are among the service providers on this route. 🏔️ Route 3: For a slightly longer journey of 1 day and 22 hours, travelers can take a bus from Seattle to Helena with Northwestern Trailways as part of the journey. With transfers in Spokane, Butte, and Great Falls, passengers can experience the beauty of the Cascade Range and the Rocky Mountains on this route. Agencies like Jefferson Lines and Salt Lake Express ensure a smooth travel experience.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Seattle to Helena.

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The distance between Seattle and Helena is approximately 492 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 591.2 miles. Traveling by bus and train, it would take approximately 21 hours to reach Helena from Seattle. Alternatively, taking a plane would be the quickest option, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 13 minutes. Driving by car would take approximately 9 hours and 24 minutes to travel from Helena to Seattle.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Seattle to Helena is to drive. It takes approximately 9 hours and 24 minutes and costs between $100 and $160. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore any stops along the way. However, if time is of the essence, the fastest option is to fly, which takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes but costs between $150 and $900. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on individual preferences and travel needs.
To travel from Seattle to Helena without public transportation, you can drive the distance of 591 miles. This usually takes around 9 hours and 24 minutes by car. The approximate cost of fuel for this journey can range from $100 to $160, depending on the current gas prices. It's important to consider the condition of roads and weather conditions before embarking on this road trip.
To travel from Seattle to Helena without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train. This journey takes approximately 21 hours and costs between $65 and $330. Another option is to fly, which takes 3 hours and 13 minutes, but this may be more expensive. There are no direct public transportation options available, so a combination of different modes of transport is necessary.
The flight between Seattle and Helena typically takes 1 hour and 35 minutes. The prices of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline and the time of booking, ranging from $154 to $866. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are numerous hotels available in Helena with over 35 options to choose from. Prices for accommodations start at just $43 per night, offering a range of affordable options for travelers. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly hotel or a more luxurious stay, there are plenty of choices available to suit your needs near Helena.

Trips from Seattle