Yellowstone National Park, a vast and spectacular landscape of geysers, hot springs, abundant wildlife, and dramatic canyons, stands as a crown jewel among America’s natural treasures. The allure of this stunning destination draws millions of visitors each year, each seeking to witness its unique geothermal wonders and unparalleled beauty. While the idea of a classic American road trip to Yellowstone is appealing to many, the prospect of a leisurely and scenic journey by train offers a different kind of adventure.
This guide is designed to help Amtrak passengers plan their trip to Yellowstone National Park, providing comprehensive information on how to travel by rail, including details on schedules, ticket options, route possibilities, and associated costs. Although Amtrak does not currently offer a direct train line that takes travelers directly into the heart of Yellowstone, an unforgettable and adventurous experience can still be fully achieved by combining train travel with other modes of transportation.
The Reality of Direct Amtrak Service to Yellowstone: What You Need to Know
For those dreaming of hopping off an Amtrak train and heading straight to the splendor of Yellowstone National Park, it’s important to understand the current limitations of the rail network. Amtrak doesn’t have a dedicated train route that extends into the park itself. The vast nature of national parks often keeps their most scenic areas far from existing rail infrastructure. Therefore, getting to Yellowstone by train requires traveling to the nearest Amtrak stations, then connecting transportation to access the park’s various entrances.
This fact requires a bit more planning but opens up opportunities for scenic travel through the American West. It’s worth noting that Amtrak Vacations offers curated travel packages that feature Yellowstone National Park as a major destination. These packages often include not only Amtrak rail travel to a gateway city near Yellowstone, but also transportation from the train station to accommodations within or near the park. For travelers who prefer a more seamless and integrated travel experience, exploring these vacation packages can be a beneficial option, as they handle the logistics of combining train travel with the ground transportation necessary to reach the wonders of Yellowstone.
Your Gateway Stations: The Closest Amtrak Stops to Yellowstone
While a direct route isn’t available, two primary Amtrak stations serve as convenient starting points for an adventure to Yellowstone National Park, each offering unique access points and transportation options.
Salt Lake City, Utah: The Most Popular Option
Salt Lake City’s Amtrak station, known as Salt Lake Central, stands as the most frequently recommended and utilized gateway for travelers aiming to reach Yellowstone by train. Its popularity stems from its relatively close proximity to the park’s West Entrance, which is a primary access point and near many of Yellowstone’s most famous geysers and hydrothermal features. The drive from Salt Lake City to the West Entrance typically takes under five hours, making it a manageable onward journey after arriving by train. Furthermore, Yellowstone.co explicitly identifies Salt Lake City as the closest Amtrak service to the park.
Getting to Salt Lake City by Train: The California Zephyr Route
The key Amtrak route connecting travelers to Salt Lake City from various parts of the country is the renowned California Zephyr. This iconic train journey runs daily between Chicago and San Francisco, offering breathtaking views of the American heartland and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Along its route, the California Zephyr connects with major cities such as Emeryville (serving the San Francisco Bay Area), Sacramento, Reno, Denver, Omaha, and Chicago, providing a wide range of departure points for those heading towards Yellowstone. Lonely Planet specifically highlights the California Zephyr as a great way to access Yellowstone, noting the scenic beauty encountered along the way.
Transportation Options from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone’s West Entrance
Upon arrival at Salt Lake Central Station in Salt Lake City, travelers have several options to cover the remaining distance to Yellowstone’s West Entrance.
Renting a Car: For those who prefer the flexibility of their own vehicle, numerous car rental agencies are conveniently located near Salt Lake Central Station. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is particularly close, situated just an 11-minute walk from the station. Other nearby options include Avis, Hertz, and Budget, providing a variety of vehicle choices to suit different needs and preferences. Having a rental car allows for independent exploration of Yellowstone and the surrounding areas.
Shuttle Service: Travelers seeking a car-free option can utilize the Salt Lake Express shuttle service, which provides transportation from downtown Salt Lake City to West Yellowstone. The shuttle journey takes approximately six hours and costs around $78 each way. Salt Lake Express operates extensively in the region, offering daily shuttles to West Yellowstone from various pick-up points in Salt Lake City, including the airport and downtown locations. This service provides a direct and relatively affordable way to reach the park entrance without the need to drive.
Bus Services: Commercial bus lines such as Greyhound and FlixBus also offer routes from Salt Lake City to West Yellowstone. The travel time for these bus services is generally around 6 to 7 hours, with ticket prices starting in the range of $90 to $97. These options present another viable alternative for budget-conscious travelers who prefer not to drive.
Amtrak Vacations Packages: As mentioned earlier, some Amtrak Vacations packages designed for Yellowstone include roundtrip transfers between Salt Lake City and the park. These packages handle the connecting transportation, providing a seamless experience for those who opt for this all-inclusive approach. One such package, the Yellowstone National Park Getaway, explicitly includes transportation from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone after an overnight stay in the city.
California Zephyr Schedules and Ticket Price Ranges
The California Zephyr schedule can vary depending on the direction of travel and the specific day. However, the train journey from Chicago to Salt Lake City typically takes about 35 hours, while the journey from Sacramento to Salt Lake City takes about 16 hours. Passengers are advised to check Amtrak’s official website or schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket prices for the Salt Lake City to California Zephyr vary based on several factors, including the origin city, time of year, how far in advance the tickets are booked, and service choice. Typically, one-way fares from Chicago to Salt Lake City can range from about $170 to $300. For shorter trips from Denver, prices can range from $80 to $175 or more. Passengers departing from San Francisco can expect to find fares in the $90 to $150 range and up. The California Zephyr offers a multi-day journey that allows travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes of the American West. Ticket prices reflect not only the transportation but also the experience of this beautiful rail adventure. It is important for potential travelers to check current fares and consider booking in advance to secure the best possible rates, as costs can increase closer to the travel date.
Shelby, Montana: A Northern Approach
Another Amtrak station that can serve as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park is located in Shelby, Montana. This northern Montana town is situated roughly 311 miles away from Yellowstone’s North Entrance, which translates to about a 5-hour drive. While Salt Lake City provides access to the more popular West Entrance, Shelby offers an alternative for those interested in exploring the northern regions of the park.
Reaching Shelby via the Empire Builder Route
The Amtrak route that serves Shelby, Montana, is the Empire Builder. This historic train line travels between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, with separate branches heading to Seattle and Portland. The Empire Builder offers a scenic journey through the northern United States, following portions of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and traversing Montana’s “Big Sky” country. Major connecting cities along this route include Chicago, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Spokane, and the endpoints of Seattle and Portland. The Shelby station itself is a regular stop along the Empire Builder line.
Transportation from Shelby to Yellowstone’s North Entrance
Upon arriving at the Amtrak station in Shelby, travelers need to arrange transportation for the approximately 5-hour drive south to Gardiner, Montana, the town just outside Yellowstone’s North Entrance.
Renting a Car: The most practical option for traveling from Shelby to Yellowstone’s North Entrance is typically renting a car. While research indicates limited car rental options directly in Gardiner or the closer town of Livingston , it is advisable to inquire about rental agencies in Shelby itself. Alternatively, travelers might need to consider renting a car in a larger city along the Empire Builder route, such as Great Falls (approximately 1.5 hours southeast of Shelby) or further west in Spokane or Seattle, and then driving to Shelby to begin their Yellowstone leg of the journey.
Bus Services: Public transportation options directly from Shelby to Gardiner are limited. Northern Transit Interlocal (NTI) operates a bus route connecting Shelby with Great Falls , but this route does not extend directly to Yellowstone’s North Entrance. Further connections from Great Falls or other points would likely be necessary, adding significant time and complexity to the journey.
Shuttle Services: Information regarding direct shuttle services from Shelby to Gardiner is scarce. It is possible that some local or private shuttle operators might exist, but these would likely require pre-booking and may not be as readily available as in larger gateway cities like Salt Lake City. Travelers might need to consider traveling to a larger town such as Bozeman, which offers more comprehensive shuttle options to the park, but this would involve additional travel time from Shelby.
Taxi: While taxi services might be available in Shelby, relying on them for the long journey to Gardiner would be prohibitively expensive for most travelers.
Empire Builder Schedules and Ticket Price Ranges
The Empire Builder operates daily, with schedules varying by direction and specific train number. Travelers should check Amtrak’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule information.
Ticket prices from Empire Builder to Shelby also vary depending on factors such as the origin city, time of year, time of booking, and class of service. One-way fares from Chicago to Shelby can range from about $120 to $400. For those traveling from the Pacific Northwest, such as Seattle, Shelby ticket prices can range from $140 to $230 or more. Reaching Yellowstone via Shelby involves a longer train ride than from Salt Lake City for those traveling from Chicago. However, for travelers coming from cities in the Pacific Northwest, Shelby offers a more direct rail connection. It is important to note that transportation from Shelby to the park’s north entrance appears to be less developed and potentially more difficult than the options available in Salt Lake City.
Detailed Route Options and Planning
To provide a clearer picture of how to combine Amtrak travel with onward transportation to reach Yellowstone, here are some step-by-step guides for common routes:
Option 1: Chicago to Yellowstone via Salt Lake City:
- Take the California Zephyr from Chicago to Salt Lake City: This scenic train journey typically takes between 34 and 37 hours.
- Transfer to connecting transportation to West Yellowstone: Upon arrival in Salt Lake City, travelers can choose between renting a car and driving for approximately 5 hours, taking the Salt Lake Express shuttle which takes around 6 hours, or opting for a bus service like Greyhound or FlixBus with a travel time of about 7 hours.
Option 2: Denver to Yellowstone via Salt Lake City:
- Take the California Zephyr from Denver to Salt Lake City: This leg of the journey is shorter, lasting approximately 14 to 15 hours.
- Transfer to connecting transportation to West Yellowstone: Similar to the Chicago route, options include renting a car (5-hour drive), Salt Lake Express shuttle (6 hours), or bus services (7 hours).
Option 3: San Francisco to Yellowstone via Salt Lake City:
- Take the California Zephyr from San Francisco (Emeryville) to Salt Lake City: This train ride takes around 17 to 19 hours.
- Transfer to connecting transportation to West Yellowstone: The onward journey options remain the same: rental car (5 hours), Salt Lake Express shuttle (6 hours), or bus services (7 hours).
Option 4: Seattle/Portland to Yellowstone via Shelby:
- Take the Empire Builder from Seattle/Portland to Shelby: This train journey typically takes between 17 and 20 hours.
- Rent a car in Shelby and drive to Yellowstone’s North Entrance (Gardiner): The drive from Shelby to Gardiner is approximately 5 hours. It is important to note that the driving distance from Shelby to reach other popular areas within Yellowstone National Park, such as the West Entrance or Old Faithful, would be considerably longer. For instance, the drive from Salt Lake City to the West Entrance is around 5 hours , suggesting that the Shelby route might involve a less direct and potentially longer overall travel time to access the central and western parts of the park.
Understanding Amtrak Ticket Prices to Yellowstone Gateways
The cost of an Amtrak ticket to either Salt Lake City or Shelby can vary significantly based on several key factors. The time of year and overall demand for train travel play a crucial role, with prices generally being higher during peak seasons and holidays. Booking tickets well in advance is often recommended as prices tend to increase closer to the travel date. Additionally, the class of service chosen will impact the fare, with options ranging from the more economical Coach seats to private sleeping accommodations like Roomettes and Bedrooms, which offer greater comfort and amenities.
Here are some general price ranges for one-way Amtrak tickets to the discussed gateway stations from various origin cities. Please note that these are approximate and subject to change; it is always best to check the Amtrak website for current fares.
- Chicago to Salt Lake City: Expect prices to range from around $170 to over $300.
- Denver to Salt Lake City: Fares on this shorter route can typically be found between $80 and $175 or more.
- San Francisco to Salt Lake City: Ticket prices from the Bay Area to Salt Lake City generally fall in the range of $90 to $150 and upwards.
- Chicago to Shelby: The cost of a one-way ticket from Chicago to Shelby can range from approximately $120 to over $400.
- Seattle to Shelby: Travelers from Seattle to Shelby can anticipate fares in the range of $140 to $230 or more.
To potentially secure better deals on Amtrak tickets, consider the following tips:
- Book in advance: As mentioned, booking early can often lead to lower fares.
- Travel during the off-season: Traveling outside of peak tourist periods can result in more affordable ticket prices.
- Consider Amtrak Rail Passes: For those planning multiple train journeys, an Amtrak Rail Pass might offer a cost-effective solution.
- Check for promotions and discounts: Regularly visit the Amtrak website or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about any ongoing promotions or discounts.
Beyond the Train: Connecting Transportation to Yellowstone’s Entrances
The final leg of the journey to Yellowstone National Park involves utilizing connecting transportation from the Amtrak gateway stations. Here’s a closer look at the options available:
Bus and Shuttle Services
For travelers traveling to Yellowstone via Salt Lake City, Salt Lake Express provides an important link, offering daily direct shuttle service to West Yellowstone. Their routes and schedules can be found on their website, making it easy to plan a transfer after arriving by train. Greyhound and FlixBus also operate routes between Salt Lake City and West Yellowstone, offering additional options for bus travel. Booking information and station details are available on their respective websites. Although there is some limited bus service from Bozeman, Montana to West Yellowstone and Gardner, these are less directly connected than the Amtrak routes serving Salt Lake City or Shelby. The West Gate of Yellowstone seems to be most easily accessible by a combination of bus and shuttle services originating in Salt Lake City.
Renting a Car: Convenience and Flexibility
Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding area. In Salt Lake City, several car rental agencies have locations near the Amtrak station, making it easy to pick up a vehicle upon arrival. For those considering the Shelby Gateway, it is advisable to research car rental options in Shelby or possibly in larger cities along the Empire Builder Route. Having a car allows visitors to access the various entrances to Yellowstone, explore at their own pace, and visit attractions that are not easily accessible by shuttle or bus. Gateway towns such as Bozeman, West Yellowstone, and Jackson Hole also offer car rental options, which may be relevant depending on the Amtrak route chosen and final destination in the Yellowstone area.
Amtrak Vacations Packages: A Hassle-Free Solution
Opting for an Amtrak Vacations package can provide a convenient and hassle-free way to experience Yellowstone. These packages often bundle the Amtrak train journey with hotel accommodations and pre-arranged transportation to and from Yellowstone National Park. Different package options are available, some including guided tours within the park, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the experience without the stress of coordinating multiple bookings. This approach can be particularly appealing to those who prefer a structured itinerary and seamless transfers.
Connecting Amtrak to Yellowstone Entrances
| Amtrak Station | Closest Yellowstone Entrance | Connecting Transportation Options | Estimated Travel Time from Station to Entrance | Relevant Amtrak Route |
| Salt Lake Central, UT | West | Rental Car, Salt Lake Express Shuttle, Greyhound/FlixBus | 5-7 hours | California Zephyr |
| Shelby, MT | North | Rental Car | 5 hours | Empire Builder |
Tips for a Smooth Amtrak Journey to Yellowstone
Planning a trip to Yellowstone involving Amtrak and connecting transportation requires some foresight. Here are some valuable tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
- Book well in advance: Especially during the peak travel season, it is crucial to book your Amtrak tickets and any connecting transportation (shuttles, rental cars, buses) as early as possible to secure availability and potentially better prices.
- Pack essentials for a long train journey: Amtrak journeys, particularly long-distance routes, can be quite lengthy. Remember to pack snacks, water, entertainment (books, movies), and any necessary medications.
- Dress in layers: Temperatures on the train can fluctuate, so wearing layers of clothing will help you stay comfortable throughout your trip.
- Check baggage policies: Be sure to review the baggage allowances for both Amtrak and any connecting transportation services you plan to use.
- Be prepared for potential delays: While Amtrak strives for on-time service, train travel can sometimes be subject to delays due to various factors. It’s wise to have some flexibility in your schedule and stay informed about any potential disruptions.
- Confirm connecting transportation details: Double-check the schedules and pick-up locations for any shuttle or bus services you have booked to ensure a seamless transfer.
- Reserve rental cars in advance: If you plan to rent a car, make your reservation well ahead of time, especially if traveling during a busy period. Also, consider the driving distance and potential road conditions between the gateway station and Yellowstone.
Conclusion
While Amtrak may not offer a direct train route into the heart of Yellowstone National Park, the potential for a memorable adventure by combining train travel with integrated transportation is a compelling option. Whether you choose the popular route through Salt Lake City, offering easy access to the western entrance via the California Zephyr and readily available shuttle and rental car options, or opt for the northern approach via Shelby, Montana, via the Empire Builder, which promises a unique experience of the park’s northern entrance and beauty.
By understanding the available routes, transportation options, and ticket reservations, travelers can effectively plan their trip and embrace the adventure of reaching Yellowstone by train. For those seeking a seamless experience, exploring Amtrak vacation packages can provide a comprehensive solution. Start planning your Yellowstone adventure today by visiting the Amtrak website or contacting Amtrak Vacations to explore the possibilities of a spectacular rail journey to one of America’s greatest national treasures.