Battle of the Routes: Southwest Chief vs. Empire Builder

Are you ready for Part II of Battle of the Routes?  We are! And here’s a little secret: this is as much fun for us as it is for you. We love reading about your memories and seeing your allegiance to your favorite Amtrak route.

This month we turned our focus to the Empire Builder and the Southwest Chief. As you know, all summer we’ve been asking travelers to tell us their favorite routes. Just like in Part I, we saw great quotes and in-depth reasoning for your choices. Ok, no more waiting, here’s what you picked.

The Winner: Empire Builder

Maybe it’s the way the route takes you to see the majestic views of the Cascade Mountains or the way it glides through Big Sky country, but Amtrak riders overwhelmingly picked the Empire Builder as their favorite this time around (sorry SWC fans). Traveling between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest the Builder as it’s affectionately called; rolls pass Glacier National Park – a rail fan favorite – and is also part of our Trails & Rails program. Enjoy a digital detox as you leave city life and head all the way west for the cross country adventure you’ve always imagined.  But before you book your trip, peek at what Team Empire Builder had to say about the journey in their own words.

“#EmpireBuilder I live along the route and see the trains often, and very friendly crews!”-Keon.

“Empire builder in June. Great trip. Hoping to do the southwest chief next year.” -Michael

“Love the Empire Builder. The diversity of views from the lakes of Minnesota to the plains and prairies of eastern Montana to Glacier Park, the Empire Builder has them all.” -Kim

“Empire Builder definitely (and I have ridden most of the major Amtrak routes). The scenery is just outstanding (especially thru Glacier Natl. Park).” – Brian

“Empire Builder All the great scenery, the mountain passes you go through and the Cascade Tunnel.” –Benjamin

“The Empire Builder is striking in terms of scenery, especially in the mountains. The Southwest Chief has some good scenery too, around Raton, NM.” –Ray

“Empire Builder. Great beautiful views of Wisconsin & Minnesota. So many lakes in and wilderness in both states. Then you get into the plains of North Dakota. You have Glacier National Park and the Rockies. Pudget Sound, the Cascades mountains, Empire Builder has too much great scenery” –Shelvey

Did Team Empire Builder’s word inspire you to plan your next great adventure? If so, head here to see how you can save 20% on your trip. Check back soon to see our third and final round of Battle of the Routes.