Tucked away in the vast, beautiful expanse of northeastern Montana, often called the Book Amtrak From Malta, Amtrak Station – Simply Call +1.855.954.6300 the charming town of Malta (not to be confused with the European island nation!) offers a unique blend of prehistoric wonders, outdoor adventures, and small-town hospitality. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path American experience, Malta serves as a fantastic base, accessible by both historic railway and regional air.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to reach Malta, what to expect from its Amtrak connections, the operational airports serving the region, and why this “Dinosaur Capital of Montana” should be on your travel radar.
Discovering Malta, Montana: The “Dinosaur Capital” [Book Amtrak From Malta]
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Malta, Montana, is a hidden gem best known for its rich paleontological history. It’s a gateway to the Missouri River Breaks and a prime location for exploring Montana’s stunning natural landscapes.
Why Visit Malta?
- Dinosaur Discoveries: Home to the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and Field Station, Malta boasts an incredible collection of fossils, including the “Leonardo” mummified Brachylophosaurus.
- Fort Peck Lake: Just a short drive away, Fort Peck Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, offering unparalleled fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.
- Missouri River Breaks: Explore the rugged, scenic beauty of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and historical exploration.
- Outdoor Recreation: Abundant opportunities for hunting, birdwatching, and experiencing the vast “Big Sky” country.
- Small-Town Charm: Experience genuine Montana hospitality in a community that prides itself on its history and natural surroundings.
Traveling by Train: The Amtrak Empire Builder [Book Amtrak From Malta]
One of the most scenic ways to reach Malta is via Amtrak’s legendary Empire Builder route. This train connects Chicago with Spokane, and then splits to serve both Portland and Seattle, crossing the vast plains, majestic mountains, and charming towns of the American West.
Malta’s Amtrak station (MTM) is a smaller, flag-stop station, meaning departures and arrivals are brief, so be ready! It offers a nostalgic and convenient way to experience the heart of Montana.
Key Empire Builder Stops & Distances from Malta
The Empire Builder provides a unique perspective of the country. Here are some approximate distances and durations from Malta to other significant stations along the route:
| Destination | Approximate Train Distance from Malta (miles) | Approximate Train Duration from Malta | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Westbound | |||
| Havre, MT | 55 miles | ~1 hour | Major hub for Northern Montana. |
| Shelby, MT | 110 miles | ~2 hours | Gateway to Glacier National Park via a connecting shuttle (seasonal). |
| Whitefish, MT | 200 miles | ~4 hours | Main gateway to Glacier National Park. |
| Spokane, WA | 380 miles | ~8 hours | Major city in Eastern Washington, route splits here. |
| Seattle, WA | 670 miles | ~14 hours | End of the northern branch. |
| Portland, OR | 690 miles | ~14 hours | End of the southern branch, running through the Columbia River Gorge. |
| Eastbound | |||
| Wolf Point, MT | 65 miles | ~1 hour 15 min | Another eastern Montana stop. |
| Minot, ND | 200 miles | ~4 hours | Significant city in North Dakota. |
| Fargo, ND | 400 miles | ~8 hours | Largest city in North Dakota. |
| St. Paul-Minneapolis, MN | 750 miles | ~14 hours | Major Midwest metropolitan area. |
| Chicago, IL | 1200 miles | ~26-28 hours | Eastern terminus of the Empire Builder. |
Note: Train schedules can vary, and durations are approximate. Always check the latest Amtrak schedule when planning your trip.
Flying In & Out: Airports Operational Near Malta (MAL)
When it comes to air travel, Malta (MAL) itself has a municipal airport, but it primarily serves general aviation. For commercial flights, you’ll need to look at regional airports, usually requiring a rental car for the final leg of your journey to Malta.
Malta (MAL) Municipal Airport: [Book Amtrak From Malta]
- IATA Code: MAL
- Type: General Aviation (GA)
- Operational: Yes, but primarily for private planes, charters, and local flights. There are no scheduled commercial passenger services to or from MAL.
For visitors flying commercially, here are the most relevant operational airports, along with their approximate driving distances to Malta:
| Airport Name (IATA Code) | Distance from Malta (driving) | Major Airlines | Notes/Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Falls International (GTF) | ~135 miles (2.5 – 3 hours) | Delta, United, Alaska, Allegiant | The most commonly used commercial airport for reaching Malta. Offers several daily flights, primarily connecting through Denver, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. Rental cars available. |
| Billings Logan International (BIL) | ~250 miles (4 – 4.5 hours) | Delta, United, Alaska, Allegiant, American | A larger regional hub, offering more flight options and potentially better pricing, but further drive. Connections often through Denver, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Minneapolis, Chicago. Rental cars available. |
| Helena Regional Airport (HLN) | ~220 miles (4 hours) | Delta, United, Alaska | Montana’s state capital airport, moderate options, similar drive time to Malta as Billings. Connections typically through Salt Lake City, Denver, Seattle. Rental cars available. |
| Missoula International Airport (MSO) | ~350 miles (5.5 – 6 hours) | Delta, United, Alaska, American, Allegiant | A major hub for Western Montana. While further, it offers excellent connectivity, especially from the Pacific Northwest, and more direct flights to some large cities. Scenic drive to Malta, but long. |
Important Considerations for Air Travel: [Book Amtrak From Malta]
- Rental Cars are Essential: Regardless of which regional airport you fly into, you will almost certainly need to rent a car for the drive to Malta and for exploring the surrounding area. Public transportation options are extremely limited in rural Montana.
- Road Conditions: Montana weather can be unpredictable, especially outside of summer. Check road conditions (Montana DOT) before and during your trip, particularly in winter.
- Book in Advance: For both flights and rental cars, booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.
Getting Around Malta and Beyond
Once you’ve arrived in Malta, whether by train or a scenic drive from a regional airport, having your own vehicle is crucial for experiencing all that the region has to offer. The town itself is walkable, but attractions like the dinosaur digs, Fort Peck Lake, and the Missouri River Breaks are spread out.
- Rental Cars: Available at all major regional airports (GTF, BIL, HLN, MSO).
- Local Services: Malta has local taxi services and limited shuttle options, but these should not be relied upon for extensive touring.
Plan Your Montana Adventure!
Book Amtrak From Malta, Montana, provides a fantastic gateway to the rugged beauty and rich history of the Big Sky State. Whether you choose the timeless journey of the Amtrak Empire Builder or opt for the convenience of flying into a regional airport and embarking on a scenic drive, a memorable adventure awaits. From uncovering dinosaur secrets to fishing on vast lakes, Malta promises an authentic Montana experience unlike any other. Start planning your trip today!
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