Chicago, IL, USA to Glacier National Park, MT, USA from $112: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Chicago to Glacier National Park: 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.

$112 by trainBest price

2295.3 kmDistance

8h 20m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Glacier National Park 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Glacier National Park

Embarking on a journey from the bustling cityscape of Chicago to the breathtaking wilderness of Glacier National Park reveals a striking contrast between urban life and untouched nature.

Best Neighbourhoods in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park offers diverse neighborhoods that enhance any visit.

St. Mary

• Gateway to the eastern side of the park.

• Close to scenic views and hiking trails.

West Glacier

• Home to the park's main visitor center.

• Offers easy access to Glacier's attractions.

Apgar Village

• Located by the scenic Lake McDonald.

• Features beautiful cabins and dining options.

Best Times To Visit Glacier National Park's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can elevate your Glacier experience.

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Visit in early June for fewer crowds and blooming wildflowers.

Lake McDonald

Late afternoon visits in summer offer stunning sunset views.

Many Glacier Area

Mid-September features fewer tourists and vibrant fall colors.

Glacier National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Glacier National Park experiences a varied climate with warm summers and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the most popular times to visit. Weather plays a crucial role in your travel plans as it can impact trail accessibility and wildlife sightings, so be prepared for rapid changes.

Dining Recommendation: A Taste of Glacier National Park

For a truly authentic experience, try the bison burger at the Lake McDonald Lodge, where the rich flavor of locally sourced bison showcases the region’s natural bounty. Unlike the diverse urban culinary scene in Chicago, dining in Glacier National Park immerses you in a rustic atmosphere, surrounded by stunning views and ingredients that reflect the pristine wilderness.

Chicago - Glacier National Park operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Glacier National Park, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell

Average Duration

3h 51m

Estimated price

$12451-12452

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell via Denver

Average Duration

6h 43m

Estimated price

$12451-12452

Plane from Chicago Midway to Kalispell via Denver

Average Duration

6h 54m

Estimated price

$12453-12454

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Missoula

Average Duration

3h 43m

Estimated price

$12455-12456

Plane from Milwaukee to Kalispell via Denver

Average Duration

6h 42m

Estimated price

$12457-12458

Plane from Milwaukee to Kalispell via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

6h 56m

Estimated price

$12457-12458

Website

alaskaair.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell

Average Duration

3h 49m

Estimated price

$2983-12452

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell via Seattle

Average Duration

6h 52m

Estimated price

$12459-1120

Plane from Chicago Midway to Kalispell via Seattle

Average Duration

6h 58m

Estimated price

$1121-1122

Plane from Chicago Midway to Kalispell via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

8h 32m

Estimated price

$2988-1122

Website

delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell via Salt Lake City

Average Duration

6h 16m

Estimated price

$12457-1123

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell via Minneapolis

Average Duration

6h 44m

Estimated price

$1129-1123

Plane from Chicago Midway to Kalispell via Minneapolis

Average Duration

8h 28m

Estimated price

$1125-4970

Plane from Chicago Midway to Kalispell via Salt Lake City

Average Duration

9h 34m

Estimated price

$4971-4972

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell

Average Duration

3h 49m

Estimated price

$2983-12452

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Kalispell via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

7h 17m

Estimated price

$2983-12452

Plane from Chicago Midway to Kalispell via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

8h 32m

Estimated price

$2988-1122

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Missoula

Average Duration

3h 38m

Estimated price

$210-1123

Plane from Milwaukee to Kalispell via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

6h 56m

Estimated price

$1125-1126

Plane from Milwaukee to Kalispell via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

7h 23m

Estimated price

$1125-1126

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$4977-4978

Train from Chicago Union Station to West Glacier Amtrak

Average Duration

31h 22m

Estimated price

$2888-2889

Chicago to Glacier National Park: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Glacier National Park 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.

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your trip from Chicago to Glacier National Park, you'll likely travel on Amtrak, which offers various onboard services. The Amtrak dining car provides catering services through a 'freshly prepared' menu where you can order meals, snacks, and beverages. Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly to enjoy a meal while taking in the scenic views.

• Amtrak offers different seating options for your journey. You can choose between Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class provides comfortable seating with reclining seats, while Business Class offers more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments. First Class (available on some routes) provides premium comfort with enhanced services, including gourmet meals. Check your train's specifics on the Amtrak website for details on which class suits your needs best.

• The primary operator for train service from Chicago to Glacier National Park is Amtrak. You can book your journey through their website at amtrak.com For local transport options upon arrival, check Glacier National Park's official site (nps.gov) for bus schedules and information related to shuttles or other transportation services. Note that the nearest train station is in East Glacier Park Village, which can connect you to the park.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Glacier National Park.

Or choose the category:

Chicago and Glacier National Park are approximately 1,500 miles apart. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: by car, it would take around 20-22 hours of driving time; by plane, it would take about 4-5 hours, including layovers; by train, it could take approximately 30 hours, depending on the routes and connections available. The best mode of transportation will depend on your preferences for speed, comfort, and convenience.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Chicago to Glacier National Park would be to fly directly to a nearby airport like Kalispell or Missoula. Flights tend to be quicker and more convenient than driving, with average flight times ranging from 4-5 hours. Booking flights in advance and looking out for deals can help save money on airfare, making it a practical choice for both time and cost considerations.

The prices for traveling from Chicago to Glacier National Park can vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Flights from Chicago to nearby airports like Kalispell or Missoula typically range from $200 to $500 roundtrip, depending on the time of booking and availability. Train tickets could cost anywhere from $150 to $300, while driving expenses would include gas, tolls, and potentially accommodation costs along the way. Planning ahead and comparing prices across different modes of transportation can help travelers find the best deal for their budget.

If you prefer not to use public transportation, you could drive from Chicago to Glacier National Park. The approximate driving distance is about 1,500 miles, and the journey would take around 20-22 hours depending on traffic and stops. Alternatively, you could consider renting a car and driving part of the way, then perhaps continue the journey with a combination of ridesharing services and private shuttles to reach your final destination at Glacier National Park.

To travel from Chicago to Glacier National Park without a car, you could consider flying to a nearby airport like Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell. From there, you can take a shuttle service, private car service, or even a combination of public transportation options to reach the national park. Another option would be to take a train or bus from Chicago to a city closer to Glacier National Park, and then arrange for transportation from there to the park.

There is no direct link between Chicago and Glacier National Park. While you can fly from Chicago to airports near Glacier National Park, such as Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell you would still need to arrange for additional transportation to reach the park itself. Alternatively, you could take a train or bus from Chicago to a nearby city and then find transportation from there to Glacier National Park.

The flight duration from Chicago to Glacier National Park typically ranges from 4 to 5 hours, including layovers. The cost of a round-trip flight can vary depending on the time of booking, airline, and travel dates, but it usually falls within the range of $300 to $600. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals for your trip.

There are various accommodation options near Glacier National Park including lodges, cabins, campgrounds, and hotels. Some popular choices include Many Glacier Hotel, Lake McDonald Lodge, and Glacier Park Lodge. Additionally, there are also several campgrounds within the park where you can pitch a tent or park an RV. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure availability.

Chicago, IL, USA to Glacier National Park, MT, USA from $112: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Chicago to Glacier National Park: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Glacier National Park

Best Neighbourhoods in Glacier National Park

Best Times To Visit Glacier National Park's Attractions

Glacier National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation: A Taste of Glacier National Park

Chicago - Glacier National Park operators

Chicago to Glacier National Park: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Useful tips for train travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Glacier National Park

Popular routes