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Trip Summary
2 trains operate daily from La Crosse to Minot. The train trip from La Crosse to Minot is usually about 13 hours and 2 minutes long. However, be prepared just in case your train arrives slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 571 mi (918 km) |
| Fastest train | 13h 2m |
| Lowest price | $85.00 |
| Trains per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Empire Builder |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from La Crosse to Minot?
Amtrak Empire Builder is the one and only train line which connects La Crosse 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 | 13h 2m | $95.00 |
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 La Crosse and Minot is approximately 571 miles, or 918 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 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.
Trains from La Crosse to Minot are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs La Crosse at 8:00pm while the last train of the day leaves at 8:00pm. 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 La Crosse 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 La Crosse.
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.
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 La Crosse?
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain 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 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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