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We're seriously considering an Empire Builder trip from Chicago to Seattle or reverse. This would probably be mid to late April. Is this a good time of year to make the trip? Which would be better, west to east or east to west? All suggestions/advice appreciated.
Thnx, Frank is SBA
GrandmaJudy Member # 2467
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Keep in mind that westbound, Glacier Park scenery may be after sundown. Check the timetable for the EB. For this reason, you may prefer eastbound, since even if the train is late, all Glacier Park should be in daylight. A couple years ago the Empire Builder had problems due to spring flooding along the Mississippi between LaCross, WI and MSP. You might want to keep abreast of the news on spring flooding, although late April would seem to be safe.
RRRICH Member # 1418
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In mid-summer (June-July), Glacier Park will be traversed during daylight hours westbound also, since it doesn't get dark until about 10-10:30 at night, since the area is pretty far north. Mid-April, I am not sure about. Eastbound, though, you will definitely get scenery during daylight hours through that area.
In 1998, I was on a westbound EB and we stopped at Whitefish, Montana about 9:45 PM, and it was still daylight.
(Off-topic side note: If you ride VIA's Canadian in mid-summer, it gets light about 4 AM and stays light until almost 11 PM!)
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