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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from Grand Forks to Minot. The train trip from Grand Forks to Minot is usually about 3 hours and 32 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 198 mi (318 km) |
| Fastest train | 3h 32m |
| Lowest price | $22.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 1 |
Price trends for trains from Grand Forks to Minot
Monthly avg. prices
Which train should you take from Grand Forks to Minot?
Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects Grand Forks to Minot. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 3h 32m | $27.46 |
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Grand Forks and Minot is approximately 198 miles, or 318 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 32 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 Grand Forks to Minot on Monday. Tickets for Monday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Saturday. Saturday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Grand Forks at 5:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 5:00am. 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 Grand Forks twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. Luckily, both trains will get you to Minot 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 Minot to Grand Forks.
City Information
Minot
Image credit: Andrew Filer
Link to image attributionMinot is a North Dakota city home to the Minot Air Force Base as well as the Dakota Territory Air Museum. The Scandinavian Heritage Park is another top site for history buffs, which honors the immigrant history in Minot. Close to the Souris River, you can visit the Roosevelt Park Zoo, which houses a wide range of birds, big cats, and bears. Minot offers a chance to go canoeing, kayaking, or fishing at Roosevelt Park or hiking at the amazing parks and trails. The city features great golf courses too.
One of the highlights of Minot is the Norsk Hostfest, an annual Scandinavian festival held each fall. This is North America's biggest Scandinavian festival, with fun shows and delicious food. Minot also features a thriving craft beer scene, with Souris River Brewing being the first to open. The downtown area is not far from Souris River and offers local stores, exciting nightlife, and shopping opportunities.
If you're moving within Minot, you get transportation services from the Minot City Transit. Most visitors come to town on Amtrak.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Grand Forks?
Main departure station: 5555 DeMers Ave
There is one train station in Grand Forks.
All train stations in Grand Forks:
5555 DeMers Ave
Where is the train station in Minot?
Main arrival station: 400 1st Ave SW
Minot has one train station.
All train stations in Minot:
400 1st Ave SW
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Need a return trip from Minot to Grand Forks?
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