Nestled in the heart of Montana’s “Hi-Line,” Havre (pronounced “HAV-er”) might seem like a quiet,often called the Book Amtrak From Havre, Amtrak Station – Simply Call +1.855.954.6300 unassuming town. But for Amtrak enthusiasts and cross-country travelers, Havre is a vital stop, a crossroads where the iconic Empire Builder cuts through the vast landscapes of the Big Sky State.
More than just a whistle-stop, Havre offers a blend of railroad history, local charm, and serves as a gateway to explore northern Montana. If you’re planning a trip aboard Amtrak or curious about this quintessential American rail town, this complete guide will cover everything you need to know about Havre (HAV), its railway routes, distances, and connecting airports.
What is Havre, Montana?
Havre is a city in Hill County, Montana, located on the northern plains, just south of the Canadian border. Founded in 1887 as a major division point for James J. Hill’s Great Northern Railway, the town’s identity is inextricably linked to the railroad. Today, it still thrives as a regional hub for agriculture, trade, and, of course, a crucial stop on Amtrak’s most northern route. With a population of around 10,000, it offers a friendly, small-town atmosphere with surprising historical depth.
Amtrak’s Gateway: The Havre Station (HAV) Book Amtrak From Havre
Book Amtrak From Havre | Call +1.855.954.6300 OTA
The Havre Amtrak station (HAV) is more than just a platform; it’s a historic building that echoes the golden age of rail travel. Located at 100 1st St W, Havre, MT 59501, the station is a significant point on the Empire Builder route.
Station Amenities and Services:
- Staffed Station: Unlike many smaller Amtrak stops, Havre is a staffed station, meaning you’ll find an agent available during scheduled train arrivals and departures. This is a huge benefit for baggage handling, ticket assistance, and general inquiries.
- Waiting Room: A classic, spacious waiting room provides comfort for passengers.
- Restrooms: Available during station operating hours.
- Baggage Service: Checked baggage service is available, a major convenience for long-distance travelers.
- Parking: Short-term and long-term parking options are usually available.
The Empire Builder: Havre’s Lifeline [Book Amtrak From Havre]
The Empire Builder is Amtrak’s premier long-distance route connecting Chicago with Seattle and Portland, traversing eight states and some of America’s most stunning scenery, including the northern Rocky Mountains and the vast plains. Havre sits right in the middle of this epic journey, making it a natural breaking point or an ideal starting/ending point for exploring Montana.
Eastbound Routes from Havre (Towards Chicago)
Traveling eastbound from Havre on the Empire Builder takes you across the rolling plains of eastern Montana, through North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and finally to the bustling metropolis of Chicago.
Here are major stops and approximate distances from Havre:
| Destination | State | Approx. Distance from Havre (Miles) | Approx. Travel Time from Havre | Key Features / Connections |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Havre (HAV) | MT | 0 | – | Gateway to Northern Montana, Historic Railroad Town |
| Malta (MLT) | MT | 49 | 1 hour | Near Fort Peck Indian Reservation |
| Glasgow (GGW) | MT | 120 | 2.5 hours | Gateway to Fort Peck Lake |
| Williston (WTN) | ND | 270 | 5.5 hours | Oil boom city, Missouri River access |
| Minot (MOT) | ND | 380 | 7.5 hours | Air Force Base, Scandinavian N.D. Heritage Center |
| Fargo (FAR) | ND | 580 | 11.5 hours | Largest city in ND, university town |
| St. Paul-Minneapolis (MSP) | MN | 810 | 16 hours | Historic Union Depot (St. Paul), Twin Cities attractions |
| Milwaukee (MKE) | WI | 1040 | 20.5 hours | Brewing history, Lake Michigan, connection to Hiawatha Service |
| Chicago (CHI) | IL | 1130 | 22 hours | Union Station hub, countless connections, major tourist destination |
Note: All distances and travel times are approximate and can vary due to operational factors. It’s always best to check Amtrak’s official schedule for the most current information.
Westbound Routes from Havre (Towards Seattle/Portland)
Heading westbound from Havre offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, through Glacier National Park (seasonal stops), into Idaho and Washington, eventually splitting to serve both Seattle and Portland.
Here are major stops and approximate distances from Book Amtrak From Havre:
| Destination | State | Approx. Distance from Havre (Miles) | Approx. Travel Time from Havre | Key Features / Connections |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Havre (HAV) | MT | 0 | – | Gateway to Northern Montana, Historic Railroad Town |
| Shelby (SBY) | MT | 70 | 1 hour 15 min | Border town, oil & gas industry |
| Cut Bank (CTB) | MT | 105 | 2 hours | “Coldest Spot in the Nation,” Blackfeet Reservation |
| Browning (BRW) | MT | 135 | 2 hours 45 min | West entrance to Glacier NP, Museum of the Plains Indian |
| East Glacier Park (EGP)* | MT | 145 | 3 hours 15 min | Seasonal Stop for Glacier National Park Eastern entrance |
| West Glacier (WGL)* | MT | 165 | 3 hours 45 min | Seasonal Stop for Glacier National Park Western entrance |
| Whitefish (WFH) | MT | 195 | 4 hours 30 min | Ski resort town, gateway to Flathead Valley, year-round Glacier NP access |
| Libby (LBY) | MT | 275 | 6 hours | Kootenai National Forest, beautiful river scenery |
| Sandpoint (SPT) | ID | 335 | 7 hours | Lake Pend Oreille, vibrant downtown |
| Spokane (SPK) | WA | 375 | 8 hours | Route Split: Trains divide for Seattle and Portland, major transfer point |
| For Seattle Branch: | ||||
| Wenatchee (WEN) | WA | 520 | 11 hours | “Apple Capital of the World” |
| Leavenworth (LWA) | WA | 550 | 11.5 hours | Bavarian-themed village, popular tourist spot |
| Everett (EVR) | WA | 650 | 13 hours | Boeing assembly plant, Puget Sound |
| Seattle (SEA) | WA | 680 | 13.5 hours | King Street Station, iconic city, cruise terminal |
| For Portland Branch: | ||||
| Pasco (PSC) | WA | 465 | 9.5 hours | Tri-Cities area, wine region |
| Wishram (WSH) | WA | 550 | 11 hours | Columbia River Gorge scenery |
| Vancouver (VAN) | WA | 630 | 12.5 hours | Across the Columbia River from Portland |
| Portland (PDX) | OR | 640 | 13 hours | Union Station, vibrant cultural scene, gateway to Oregon coast |
Note: All distances and travel times are approximate and can vary due to operational factors. Stops marked with an asterisk () are seasonal (typically May-October) for Glacier National Park access.*
Connecting to the Skies: Airports Operational Near Havre [Book Amtrak From Havre]
While Havre itself has a small airport, most commercial air travelers will need to connect via larger regional or international airports. Keep in mind that “near” in Montana terms can still mean a significant drive.
Here are the key airports operational relatively close to Book Amtrak From Havre:
- Havre City-County Airport (HVR):
- Location: Just south of Havre.
- Operational: Primarily serves general aviation, charter flights, and some limited regional commuter services. Commercial flights are infrequent and often require connections through larger Montana cities.
- Great Falls International Airport (GTF):
- Location: Great Falls, MT (~115 miles south of Havre).
- Operational: The most practical and closest major commercial airport to Havre. Offers daily flights to major hubs like Denver (DEN), Salt Lake City (SLC), Seattle (SEA), and Minneapolis (MSP) via airlines such as Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines. A rental car or pre-arranged shuttle would be necessary for ground transportation to Havre.
- Lethbridge Airport (YQL) – Canada:
- Location: Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada (~100 miles north of Havre).
- Operational: Offers regional flights within Canada, primarily to Calgary. Requires international border crossing (Coutts/Sweet Grass).
- Calgary International Airport (YYC) – Canada:
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada (~200 miles north of Havre).
- Operational: A major international airport with extensive flight options across North America and beyond. A good option for international travelers but involves a significant drive and international border crossing.
- Missoula International Airport (MSO):
- Location: Missoula, MT (~250 miles southwest of Havre).
- Operational: Offers a good range of commercial flights to major U.S. hubs. It’s a longer drive but another viable option for commercial air travel in Montana.
- Spokane International Airport (GEG):
- Location: Spokane, WA (~375 miles west of Havre).
- Operational: A major hub in Eastern Washington, directly on the Empire Builder route. Travelers could fly into Spokane and board the train there, or vice-versa.
Beyond the Tracks: Exploring Havre
If you find yourself with time in Havre, here are a few local attractions:
- Havre Beneath the Streets: Discover a fascinating underground city, a testament to Havre’s early days when businesses moved underground after a devastating fire in 1904.
- Fort Assinniboine: Just south of town, this well-preserved historic military fort offers a glimpse into frontier life and Native American history.
- Wahkpa Chu’gn Buffalo Jump: A prehistoric Native American buffalo jump site, offering archaeological insights into the region’s ancient past.
- H. Earl Clack Memorial Museum: Features local history, pioneer artifacts, and dinosaur fossils found in the area.
- Downtown Havre: Enjoy local shops, restaurants, and the friendly atmosphere of a classic American main street.
Tips for Your Havre Amtrak Journey
- Check Schedules Religiously: Amtrak’s long-distance trains, including the Empire Builder, are known for potential delays. Always confirm arrival/departure times on the day of travel using Amtrak’s app or website.
- Book in Advance: Especially for sleeper cars or peak season travel, tickets can sell out quickly.
- Enjoy the Scenery: The observation car (Sightseer Lounge) is a must for the scenic stretches, particularly through Glacier National Park.
- Food Options: The Empire Builder offers dining car service (for sleeper car passengers and often for coach with reservations) and a café car for snacks and lighter meals. Havre has a few local eateries if you have time during a layover.
- Dress in Layers: Montana weather can be unpredictable.
- Consider a Short Stop: If time allows, disembarking in Havre for a few hours to explore “Beneath the Streets” or grab a meal can be a unique experience.
- Be Prepared for Quiet Zones: While Havre is a railroad town, many areas along the Hi-Line are designated quiet zones, meaning train horns are not routinely sounded through town.
Conclusion
Book Amtrak From Havre (HAV) is more than just a dot on the map; it’s a living piece of railroad history and a significant hub on Amtrak’s grand Empire Builder route. Whether you’re passing through on an epic cross-country adventure, using it as a starting point for exploring Montana’s vast beauty, or simply stopping to stretch your legs, Havre offers a genuine slice of Americana. So, next time you’re planning an Amtrak journey, consider making Havre your destination or a memorable stop along the way!
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