Glacier National Park by Train, Bike, & Shuttle

There’s something magical about traveling without a car. It’s slower, yes — but in the best possible way. When I planned my trip to Glacier National Park, I decided to leave my car at home and let the train, my bike, and a trusty shuttle system carry me through the journey. It turned out to be one of the most joyful travel experiences I’ve ever had.

All Aboard to Big Sky Country

The adventure began the moment I lifted my bike to the baggage car attendant and stepped onto the train. No white-knuckle driving. No worrying about gas prices, navigation, or parking. Instead, I had a window seat, a good book, a deck of cards, my coffee cone and freshly ground Peace Coffee, and endless South Dakota and Montana landscapes rolling by. The rhythm of the train felt like the trip’s first deep breath — a reminder that vacations should start before you arrive at your destination.

Two Wheels, Total Freedom

When the train pulled into my stop, the train attendant lifted my bike down to the platform in West Glacier. I lugged my over-filled duffle onto my bike and walked across the highway to my lodging. The fresh air, the smell of pine, and the feeling of earning each mile made me feel instantly connected to the place.

The next morning, my bike became my bridge to the park entrance. No traffic jams. No lines. Just me, the sound of my tires on the pavement, and mountains that grew taller with every pedal stroke.

The Park, One Shuttle Ride at a Time

Inside the park, I traded pedals for passenger seats and hopped on one of the free shuttles. It whisked me to trailheads without the stress of navigating or hunting for parking. I could sit back, watch for wildlife, and chat with fellow hikers about their favorite trails.

In the evening, I rode my bike back to my lodging, tired but happy, with the kind of exhaustion that only comes from fresh air and big adventures.

Why I’ll Do It Again

Leaving the car behind meant different planning and more living. It was kinder to the environment and a whole lot more relaxing. But most importantly, it gave me a deeper connection to the journey. Without the windshield, I felt the wind. Without the gas pedal, I set my own pace.

If you ever get the chance, try it: take the train, bring your bike, and let the park shuttles do the rest. You might just find that the road less driven leads to the best kind of memories.