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FAQs

Izaak Walton Inn Frequently Asked Questions

Q.WHEN IS CHEK IN & CHECK OUT?

Check in is at 4pm and checkout is at 11am.

Please be courteous and understanding as we are experiencing a lack of staffing in all areas of the inn.

Q. IS THE INN HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE?

As a historically preserved building, the inn does not have an elevator or wheelchair ramps for access. There is a crank lift to access the restaurant from the parking lot, though we ask you call in advance so we will have it prepared for you.

Q. ARE PETS ALLOWED?

In some accommodations. Dogs are allowed in our cabins and classic cabooses with a mandatory pet fee.

Q. HOW FAR AWAY IS GLACIER NATIONAL PARK?

It is 25 miles to West Glacier (driving time about 30 minutes). It is 28 miles to East Glacier (driving time about 30 minutes), going over the continental divide at Marias Pass.

30 minutes to West or East Glacier Village
1hr & 30 minutes to St. Mary's
2 hours to Many Glacier
2 hours to the Logan Pass Visitor Center

Q. WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

We have a 30 Day Cancellation Policy - you can cancel your reservation anytime 30 days prior to the start of your reservation for a full refund. If you cancel within 30 days to the start of your reservation we hold the balance for a future stay you can use anytime within a year of your original check in date, if it is not used we take the balance as forfeit.

Q. DO YOU PICK US UP AT THE TRAIN STATION?

We ONLY pick up and drop off guests from the Essex Amtrak Platform, and only with advance notice of arrival by train. We will not provide shuttle services to any other locations.

The Izaak Walton Inn cannot guarantee pickup or drop off to the Essex train platform. Weather permitting, transportation to the platform may not be available as our vehicle may not be able to access it. The Izaak Walton Inn & Companies are not responsible for missed trains, train delays, or weather related incidents involving the train. We offer this service as a courtesy and not a guarantee, guests are fully responsible for all travel related occurrences.

Q. ARE THE CABINS/CABOOSES/HOUSE'S KITCHENS STOCKED?

Our cabins and cabooses have kitchenettes and our houses have full kitchens but they are not guaranteed to be stocked with utensils and kitchenware. We try to keep some amenities in the kitchens, but we recommend bringing your own - they will not have the exact materials you have at home.

Q. HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU THINK I NEED TO SEE THE PARK?

At least three days to one week to scratch the surface of an incredible park with nearly 750 miles of trails, more than 750 lakes, and more than 200 waterfalls.

Q. ARE THERE GUEST LAUNDRY FACILITIES?

Yes, there is a coin-operated laundry facility with washers and dryers in the building across from the main lodge.  Laundry room hours are 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Q. IS HIKING AVAILABLE WITHOUT HAVING TO DRIVE FROM THE IZAAK WALTON INN?

Yes! Amazing hikes in the Great Bear Wilderness start nearby, and you'll find access to Glacier National Park is 1/4 mile away at Walton Ranger Station. The most popular hikes are Marion Lake and Scalplock Lookout. In addition, all of our cross-country ski trails make wonderful scenic hiking adventures while staying close to the inn. Please visit the Forest Service’s website for more details.

Q. IS THERE A STORE NEARBY?

No - the nearest groceries are located in West Glacier and Hungry Horse, MT.

We have a full-service restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks, chips, and gum are available for purchase at the front desk. Essex proper has limited services, other than the Inn.

Q. IS THERE CELL PHONE COVERAGE? HOW ABOUT WI-FI?

There is no cell service in Essex. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the lobby of the Inn.

Q. AMTRAK TELLS ME THAT ESSEX IS NOT A BAGGAGE STOP. WHAT IF I WANT TO BRING MY SKIS OR LARGE LUGGAGE?

The Amtrak conductors are quite familiar with Essex, Montana and the Izaak Walton Inn. Bring whatever you like and they'll accommodate your bags.

Q. IS THERE INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT?

Yes. We have a revolving library of books in our lobby, several board games, decks of cards, and puzzles for loads of family fun. Satellite television is available in the Flagstop Bar.

Q. HOW FAR IT IS TO TOWN?

Columbia Falls is the closest city with substantial services year-round. It's 45 minutes west of Essex. West Glacier has services available only during the summer season.

Q. IS THERE A PUB OR BAR?

Yes. The Flagstop Bar is an excellent place to see train memorabilia, enjoy family table games like pool, or just relax and have a cocktail.

Q. CAN WE PARK OUR CAMPER OR RV?

No, we do not have the space or hookups available for RV or Camper parking.

Q. CAN WE CHARGE OUR ELECTRIC VEHICLE?

No, we do not have the plug ins or services to charge an electric vehicle.