Essex, Montana, is not your typical whistle-stop town. often called the Book Amtrak From Essex, Amtrak Station – Simply Call +1.855.954.6300 Tucked deep in the mountains between the two halves of Glacier National Park, this tiny destination—coded simply as ESX on the Amtrak map—is a mandatory pilgrimage for train enthusiasts, history buffs, and serious wilderness travelers.
If you’re planning a trip to experience the majesty of Glacier National Park without driving the entire way, the historic Essex stop on the Empire Builder is your ideal starting point.
This complete guide covers everything you need to know about traveling to Essex, including the specific Amtrak routes, key station distances, and the closest operational airports.
What Makes Essex (ESX) So Special?
Book Amtrak From Essex | Call +1.855.954.6300 OTA
Essex, MT, is arguably one of the most unique stops on the entire Amtrak network. The town essentially consists of one major historical landmark: the Izaak Walton Inn. Built in 1939 by the Great Northern Railway as a division point for crew changes and winter lodging, the Inn is now a destination resort that embodies rugged railway history.
When you alight at ESX, you are stepping directly into the heart of the southern boundary of Glacier National Park, offering unmatched access to the wilderness and famous attractions like the Going-to-the-Sun Road (via shuttle connections).
Important Note: The Essex station is remote. There is no major station building or staffed services. Travelers must coordinate closely with the Izaak Walton Inn for lodging and transportation.
The Amtrak Connection: The Empire Builder [Book Amtrak From Essex]
Essex is exclusively served by Amtrak’s legendary Empire Builder route (Trains 7/27 and 8/28). This train travels daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest (splitting in Spokane, WA, to serve Seattle and Portland).
For many travelers, the journey through the Montana Rockies to Essex is the pinnacle of the trip, offering stunning views of Lewis Range peaks and the Flathead National Forest.
Key Route Distances to Essex (ESX) [Book Amtrak From Essex]
Traveling to Essex means planning a journey either eastbound (from the Pacific Coast) or westbound (from the Midwest/East Coast). Below are approximate distances from major hub stops.
Table 1: Westbound Travel (Chicago to Essex)
| Origin Station | State | Route Segment | Approximate Distance to Essex (Miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago (CHI) | IL | Through Midwest & Plains | 1,226 miles |
| St. Paul/Minneapolis (MSP) | MN | Across North Dakota | 830 miles |
| Minot (MOT) | ND | Entering Montana | 390 miles |
| Shelby (SBY) | MT | Gateway to the Rockies | 138 miles |
| Essex (ESX) | MT | Destination | 0 miles |
Table 2: Eastbound Travel (Pacific Northwest to Essex)
| Origin Station | State | Route Segment | Approximate Distance to Essex (Miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle (SEA) | WA | Across Cascade Mountains | 420 miles |
| Portland (PDX) | OR | Joins main route at Spokane | 480 miles |
| Spokane (SPK) | WA | Across Northern Idaho | 275 miles |
| Whitefish (WFH) | MT | Major Regional Stop | 45 miles |
| Essex (ESX) | MT | Destination | 0 miles |
Flying In: Operational Airports Serving the Region [Book Amtrak From Essex]
While traveling by train directly into Essex is the most romantic option, many travelers choose to fly into a nearby regional hub and transfer to Essex by rental car or shuttle. Since Essex is remote, the closest airports require a drive.
| Airport Name | Code | Location | Approx. Distance to Essex (Miles) | Essential Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Park International Airport | FCA | Kalispell/Whitefish, MT | ~55 miles | Primary airport for Glacier NP access. Handles major carriers (Delta, United, Allegiant, etc.). |
| Missoula International Airport | MSO | Missoula, MT | ~150 miles | A larger regional hub, but a significantly longer drive south to reach Essex. |
| Great Falls International Airport | GTF | Great Falls, MT | ~180 miles | Used primarily if arriving to the eastern side of Glacier NP (St. Mary). |
Transferring from FCA to Essex [Book Amtrak From Essex]
Flying into FCA is highly recommended for convenience.
- Rental Car: This offers the most flexibility for exploring Glacier National Park. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Shuttle: The Izaak Walton Inn often offers seasonal pick-up service. Be sure to coordinate this well in advance of your arrival.
- Amtrak (Indirect): You can take a taxi or shuttle from FCA to the Whitefish (WFH) Amtrak station (about 15 miles) and then ride the Empire Builder one station east to ESX (45 miles).
Essential Planning Checklist for Traveling to ESX
Because Essex is an extremely isolated stop, preparation is crucial. It is not advisable to arrive at ESX without confirmed lodging.
Planning List: Logistical Must-Do’s
- Book Accommodation First: Confirm lodging at the Izaak Walton Inn or a nearby rental property before booking your train ticket. Essex is seasonal and books up quickly.
- Check Park Access: Confirm the status of the Going-to-the-Sun Road and whether a vehicle reservation system (required in peak season) is in place for Glacier National Park.
- Confirm Train Arrival Details: The Empire Builder is notorious for delays, especially on the long cross-country route. Use the Amtrak status tracker to monitor your expected arrival time.
- Pack Accordingly: Services are nonexistent outside of the Inn. Be prepared for remote wilderness conditions, fluctuating mountain weather, and limited cell service.
- Arrange Transfers: If you are not staying at the Izaak Walton Inn, pre-arrange a taxi or shuttle drop-off/pick-up. Local services are scarce and do not typically wait at the station platform.
Conclusion: All Aboard for Essex!
Book Amtrak From Essex (ESX) offers a travel experience that combines the romance of classic rail travel with the rugged isolation of true mountain wilderness. Whether you are arriving directly via the legendary Empire Builder or flying into a nearby airport, this historic gateway offers the perfect starting point for your Glacier National Park adventure.
Start planning your journey today and prepare to witness the spectacular views only the ESX stop can provide!
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