Description

Embark on an exciting journey through the rugged mountains of northern Idaho and northwestern Montana along BNSF’s Kootenai River Subdivision. This busy section of the Northern Transcon connects Sandpoint Junction and Whitefish, serving high-priority Z trains, stack trains, grain, coal, oil, and mixed freight across stunning landscapes.

Follow the scenic Kootenai River through the Cabinet Mountains, where trains race along the river before climbing a steady 1% grade through the Salish Range. The journey culminates at the seven-mile-long Flathead Tunnel, the second longest in the U.S.

With a variety of modern locomotives—including GE ES44C4s, GEVOs, Dash 9s, and EMD SD70ACes—this route offers incredible railroading action and breathtaking views, making BNSF’s Kootenai River Sub a must-see destination!

Running time 2 hours 7 minutes