Cheap train tickets from La Crosse to Whitefish
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Trip Summary
There are usually 3 daily train trips available from La Crosse to Whitefish. Traveling by train from La Crosse to Whitefish usually takes 28 hours and 58 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Empire Builder train can make the trip in 27 hours and 2 minutes.
| Distance | 1146 mi (1845 km) |
| Fastest train | 27h 2m |
| Lowest price | $275.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 2 |
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La Crosse to Whitefish Train Schedule

There are several train options that can take you from La Crosse to Whitefish:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from La Crosse to Whitefish?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from La Crosse to Whitefish was $391.00. Considering the distance between La Crosse and Whitefish, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 4 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $755.67 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from La Crosse to Whitefish by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from La Crosse to Whitefish will cost between $127 and $381. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from La Crosse to Whitefish by month
Ticket prices for the train from La Crosse to Whitefish often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $201. If you're thinking of traveling from La Crosse to Whitefish during August, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $317 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in August, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from La Crosse to Whitefish on Wanderu at least 4 days ahead of time, you can save about $755.67 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from La Crosse to Whitefish?
There are multiple trains that travel from La Crosse to Whitefish, including Amtrak, Amtrak Empire Builder. Here is what you should know about the 2 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 30h 55m | $418.33 |
| Amtrak Empire Builder | 2 | 27h 2m | $586.08 |
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 La Crosse to Whitefish every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $207.










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 about traveling by train from La Crosse to Whitefish
The distance between La Crosse and Whitefish is approximately 1146 miles, or 1845 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 28 hours and 58 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 27 hours and 2 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.
DISTANCE (MI)
1146
DISTANCE (KM)
1845
The earliest train departs La Crosse at 4:11pm while the last train of the day leaves at 8:04pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
EARLIEST TRAIN
4:11pm
LATEST TRAIN
8:04pm
Trains from La Crosse to Whitefish are the most crowded on Sunday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Sunday
LEAST CROWDED
Friday
City Information
La Crosse



A busy college town blessed with lush and beautiful green zones, La Crosse is one of the best places to just chill out and unwind. The city's star attraction is the Grandad Bluff, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the Mississippi River. Hiking up the hill will certainly be a challenge, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile. While staying in the city, don't miss out on the chance to go on a cruise aboard the La Crosse Queen, a replica paddle steamer, and unwind while enjoying the sunset. For some family fun, head over to the Children's Museum of La Crosse.
La Crosse does have a pretty reputable food scene, with a strong focus on beers and cheese curds. For an upscale dining experience with the best local dishes, The Waterfront Restaurant & Tavern is a local favorite that has a stellar reputation. Or head to the Dublin Square Irish Pub & Eatery for a combination of good foods and drinks.
La Crosse is easily accessible by bus or train, and regional flights operate out of the La Crosse Municipal Airport.
Station Information
Where does the train leave from in La Crosse?
Main departure station: 601 St Andrew St

The La Crosse Amtrak Station is located in the city's Lower Northside neighborhood at 601 St Andrew St. The station was built in 1926, and even though it has undergone several renovations, many of the original elements – including the marble surfaces and wooden ticket counters – have been preserved. In fact, the station is on the National Register of Historic Places. The station serves as the only stop in La Crosse for Amtrak's Empire Builder train line. At the station, travelers can find a spacious indoor waiting area, as well as an information desk with brochures and guides for local attractions. In addition, since the station is located in a residential neighborhood, various restaurants and bars are in close proximity.
All train stations in La Crosse:
- 601 St Andrew St
Where does the train arrive in Whitefish?
Main arrival station: Whitefish (Community Library)
Whitefish has one train station.
All train stations in Whitefish:
- Whitefish (Community Library)
Need a return trip from Whitefish to La Crosse?
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