Sleep in a diesel locomotive

There are many places where you can sleep in a caboose. But to my knowledge there's only one place where you can stay in a locomotive — at the Issac Walton Inn on the southern edge of Glacier National Park.

From the outside, the Great Northern Railroad locomotive looks pretty much as it did when it was rolling on the rails. It's the two large picture windows on the north side that hint something is different.

It's been converted into a luxurious accommodation. For between $329 and $379 a night (lower rate in winter season) it can be yours. It's in big demand so make your reservation at least six months in advance.

The GN441 locomotive has been immaculately renovated into a plush lodging suite with luxury furnishings and fixtures unsurpassed by any other lodging options in the Glacier Park area. The living room features a stone fireplace. The bedroom has a king-size bed complete with a Hudson Bay blanket.

The kitchen is as fancy as in an upscale home or million dollar RV.

YOU CAN ALSO RENT CABOOSES of various sizes as well as traditional hotel rooms. The Issac Walton Inn with its rustic Swiss-style design is a gorgeous place, right along the tracks, which adds to the charm as well as attracts railroad buffs. Amtrak stops twice a day.

The inn, a National Historic Landmark along U.S. 2, was originally built to house workers building the railroad. Today, it's the hub of many outdoor activities. In the winter, cross country skiers converge to explore the 22 miles of local trails.

To learn more about staying in the locomotive or in the other accommodations call (844) 845-3629.

The layout of the locomotive. Click the image to view it larger.