5.0
Pros: The staff were terrific helping my disabled wife, her service dog, and me. Cons: Contingency for when train is stopped because of train wreck ahead in a remote location like West Glacier Montana. Tips: Bring snacks with you.
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2 trains operate daily from Shelby to Whitefish. The train trip from Shelby to Whitefish is usually about 3 hours and 45 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 114 mi (183 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 45m |
| Lowest price | $47.30 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 2 |

Average score for trains from Shelby to Whitefish
(Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
Pros: The staff were terrific helping my disabled wife, her service dog, and me. Cons: Contingency for when train is stopped because of train wreck ahead in a remote location like West Glacier Montana. Tips: Bring snacks with you.
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Shelby to Whitefish was $47.30. At this price, taking the train is the cheap and easy way to go. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Whitefish if you book your train tickets at least 3 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $11.13.
2 train services operate from Shelby to Whitefish. Amtrak Empire Builder usually has more trains scheduled, with 2 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 3h 45m | $55.64 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 3h 45m | $54.71 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 2 Amtrak trains from Shelby to Whitefish every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $56.
The Amtrak Empire Builder is a long-distance passenger rail service that has been in operation since 1929. The full 2,200-mile route takes 45 hours to connect Chicago with the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let the length of the trip intimidate you; the Empire Builder is one of Amtrak’s most popular services, and often rated as the most scenic train route in the country. The sightseer lounge, home to enormous windows, is the perfect place to drink in the incredible views of the Mississippi River, the North Dakota Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge. Overnight trips on the Empire Builder include the option to book sleeper cabins, for a more comfortable journey and included meals. All passengers can purchase meals or snacks in the cafe car.
The distance between Shelby and Whitefish is approximately 114 miles, or 183 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 45 minutes,
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Shelby to Whitefish on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Thursday. Thursday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Shelby at 6:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 6:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Shelby twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Whitefish with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to get off or switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Whitefish to Shelby.
There is one train station in Shelby.
230 W Central Ave
Whitefish has one train station.
Whitefish (Community Library)

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