The Metra Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) is one of the major commuter rail lines connecting Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center with communities along the North Shore and farther north into Illinois and Wisconsin. The line serves important destinations including Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Waukegan, Zion, Winthrop Harbor, and Kenosha, Wisconsin.
For commuters, students, visitors, and occasional travelers, the Metra Union Pacific North Line provides rail service between downtown Chicago and communities along the Lake Michigan corridor.
This guide explains the UP North Line route, stations, schedule, fares, fare zones, parking, accessibility, tickets, train tracker, service alerts, connections, and travel tips.
Metra Union Pacific North Line at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Line Name | Union Pacific North Line |
| Abbreviation | UP-N |
| Main Downtown Terminal | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Northern Terminal | Kenosha, Wisconsin |
| Primary Service Area | Chicago, North Shore suburbs, Lake County, Wisconsin |
| Major Stops | Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Waukegan |
| Fare Zones | Zones 1–4 |
| Ticket Options | One-Way, Day Pass, Day Pass 5-Pack, Monthly Pass |
| Mobile Tickets | Ventra app |
| Train Tracking | Metra real-time tools |
| Operator | Union Pacific Railroad under a Metra purchase-of-service arrangement |
| Seasonal Stop | Ravinia Park |
| Service Type | Commuter rail |
Metra’s official material identifies the UP North Line as running between Ogilvie Transportation Center and Kenosha, while Union Pacific operates and dispatches the trains under the commuter-service arrangement.
What Is the Metra Union Pacific North Line?
The Union Pacific North Line, commonly called UP-N, is a Metra commuter rail route running north from downtown Chicago along the Lake Michigan corridor.
The route begins at Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago and continues through Chicago’s northern neighborhoods, Evanston, the North Shore communities, Lake County, and into Kenosha, Wisconsin.
The line has long served as an important transportation corridor between Chicago and communities north of the city. Its history traces back to railroads that developed the Chicago-to-Milwaukee corridor during the 19th century. Union Pacific acquired the former Chicago & North Western system in 1995.
Metra Union Pacific North Line Route
The UP-N route generally follows this pattern:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → Chicago North Side → Evanston → North Shore → Lake County → Waukegan → Zion → Winthrop Harbor → Kenosha
The line is particularly useful for passengers traveling between downtown Chicago and communities near the North Shore and Lake Michigan.
Major areas served by UP-N
- Chicago
- Evanston
- Wilmette
- Kenilworth
- Winnetka
- Glencoe
- Highland Park
- Highwood
- Fort Sheridan
- Lake Forest
- Lake Bluff
- Great Lakes
- North Chicago
- Waukegan
- Zion
- Winthrop Harbor
- Kenosha
Not every train necessarily serves every station, so passengers should check the current timetable for the specific train they intend to board.
Metra Union Pacific North Line Stations
The UP-N includes stations from downtown Chicago to Kenosha. Metra’s published materials and station information identify the following stops.
| # | Station | Fare Zone |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ogilvie Transportation Center | 1 |
| 2 | Clybourn | 2 |
| 3 | Ravenswood | 2 |
| 4 | Rogers Park | 2 |
| 5 | Peterson/Ridge | 2 |
| 6 | Main Street, Evanston | 2 |
| 7 | Davis Street, Evanston | 2 |
| 8 | Central Street, Evanston | 2 |
| 9 | Wilmette | 2 |
| 10 | Kenilworth | 3 |
| 11 | Indian Hill | 3 |
| 12 | Winnetka | 3 |
| 13 | Hubbard Woods | 3 |
| 14 | Glencoe | 3 |
| 15 | Braeside | 3 |
| 16 | Ravinia Park | 3* |
| 17 | Ravinia | 3 |
| 18 | Highland Park | 3 |
| 19 | Highwood | 3 |
| 20 | Fort Sheridan | 4 |
| 21 | Lake Forest | 4 |
| 22 | Lake Bluff | 4 |
| 23 | Great Lakes | 4 |
| 24 | North Chicago | 4 |
| 25 | Waukegan | 4 |
| 26 | Zion | 4 |
| 27 | Winthrop Harbor | 4 |
| 28 | Kenosha | 4 |
*Ravinia Park is a seasonal station associated with Ravinia’s concert season.
Metra’s UP-N fare-policy material identifies the line’s fare zones, while recent Metra timetable and ridership documents also show Peterson/Ridge among the stops.
Metra’s official UP-N merchandise collection also currently lists stations including Peterson/Ridge, Ravinia Park, Kenosha, Waukegan, Winnetka, Hubbard Woods, and other UP-N stops.
Ogilvie Transportation Center
Ogilvie Transportation Center is the downtown Chicago terminal for the three Union Pacific Metra lines:
- Union Pacific North
- Union Pacific Northwest
- Union Pacific West
Passengers using UP-N to travel into downtown Chicago can connect with Chicago’s broader public transportation network from the Ogilvie area.
The station’s central location makes it useful for commuters traveling to Chicago’s Loop, offices, shopping areas, restaurants, and nearby attractions.
Evanston Stations on UP-N
The Union Pacific North Line serves several stations in Evanston and the surrounding area.
Main Street, Evanston
Main Street provides access to the southern portion of Evanston and nearby residential and commercial areas.
Davis Street, Evanston
Davis Street is located near downtown Evanston and provides convenient access to businesses, restaurants, Northwestern University-area destinations, and local transportation.
Central Street, Evanston
Central Street serves northern Evanston and provides access to nearby residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.
The Evanston stations are among the most useful UP-N stops for passengers traveling between Chicago and the North Shore.
North Shore Stations
One of the defining characteristics of UP-N is its service through several North Shore communities.
Stations include:
- Wilmette
- Kenilworth
- Indian Hill
- Winnetka
- Hubbard Woods
- Glencoe
- Braeside
- Ravinia
- Highland Park
- Highwood
- Fort Sheridan
These stations serve a mixture of residential neighborhoods, downtown districts, educational destinations, parks, businesses, and recreational areas.
Ravinia Park Station
Ravinia Park is different from most UP-N stations because it is a seasonal station associated with the Ravinia concert venue.
During the applicable concert season, it can be particularly convenient for passengers attending events at Ravinia.
Because its operation is seasonal, travelers should confirm that the station is open and that their specific train serves it before planning a trip.
Recent Metra timetable material identifies Ravinia Park as a seasonal stop.
Highland Park and Lake Forest
UP-N continues north through several important communities after the North Shore stations.
Highland Park
Highland Park is a major UP-N stop serving the surrounding Lake County community.
Highwood
Highwood is another North Shore station located north of Highland Park.
Fort Sheridan
Fort Sheridan provides rail access to the historic area near Lake Michigan.
Lake Forest
Lake Forest is an important UP-N station serving the Lake Forest area.
Passengers should make sure they are using the correct Lake Forest station when comparing Metra routes, because another Metra line also serves Lake Forest.
Waukegan, Zion and Winthrop Harbor
Further north, UP-N serves:
- North Chicago
- Waukegan
- Zion
- Winthrop Harbor
These stations provide rail access to communities in northern Lake County.
Waukegan is one of the most prominent destinations on the northern section of the route.
Kenosha Station
Kenosha is the northern terminus of the Union Pacific North Line and is located in Wisconsin.
This makes UP-N unusual within the Metra system because the route crosses the Illinois-Wisconsin state line.
Passengers traveling to or from Kenosha should pay particular attention to the timetable because not every UP-N train necessarily operates all the way to the northern terminal.
Metra’s official material identifies Kenosha as the northern endpoint of UP-N.
Metra Union Pacific North Line Schedule
The Metra Union Pacific North Line schedule varies depending on:
- Weekday or weekend
- Direction of travel
- Train number
- Destination
- Express or local stopping pattern
- Special-event service
- Construction
- Holidays
- Seasonal changes
Rather than relying on a static list of departure times, passengers should check Metra’s current schedule before traveling.
Inbound UP-N Trains
Inbound trains generally travel:
Kenosha/Waukegan/North Shore → Ogilvie Transportation Center
These trains are particularly important for weekday commuters traveling toward downtown Chicago.
Outbound UP-N Trains
Outbound trains generally travel:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → North Shore/Waukegan/Kenosha
Passengers should check the destination displayed for the specific train because some services terminate before Kenosha.
Express and Limited-Stop Trains
Some trains may skip selected stations to provide faster service.
This means passengers should not assume that the next train will stop at their station simply because it operates on UP-N.
Always check the station-by-station timetable.
Weekend Metra Union Pacific North Schedule
UP-N also operates weekend service, but weekend schedules differ from weekday commuter schedules.
Recent Metra weekend timetable/ridership material shows service throughout the UP-N corridor, including stations between Ogilvie and Kenosha.
Weekend travelers should check the current timetable before leaving because:
- Service may be less frequent.
- Some trains may have different stopping patterns.
- Seasonal service can affect certain stations.
- Construction can temporarily modify service.
Metra Union Pacific North Line Fares
Metra uses a four-zone fare system.
The UP-N fare zones generally increase as you travel farther from downtown Chicago.
| Zone | General Area |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Downtown Chicago |
| Zone 2 | Chicago/Near North and Evanston area |
| Zone 3 | North Shore communities |
| Zone 4 | Farther northern suburbs and Kenosha |
The published Metra fare chart currently lists full-fare One-Way prices of $3.75, $5.50 and $6.75, depending on the applicable zone combination. Trips that do not go to Zone 1 use the 2–3–4 fare column.
Metra UP-N One-Way Ticket
A Metra One-Way Ticket is designed for a single continuous trip.
Current full fares are:
| Fare Combination | Full Fare |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 / Zones 1–2 | $3.75 |
| Zones 1–2–3 | $5.50 |
| Zones 1–2–3–4 | $6.75 |
| Trips not going to Zone 1 | $3.75 |
Eligible passengers can qualify for reduced fares under Metra’s fare rules.
Metra UP-N Day Pass
If you expect to make multiple Metra trips during the same day, a Day Pass may be more appropriate than buying individual One-Way Tickets.
Current published full-fare Day Pass prices are:
| Fare Combination | Day Pass |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 / Zones 1–2 | $7.50 |
| Zones 1–2–3 | $11.00 |
| Zones 1–2–3–4 | $13.50 |
| Trips not going to Zone 1 | $7.50 |
Metra states that Day Passes provide unlimited rides between the selected zones and expire at 3 a.m. the following day.
Metra Monthly Pass for UP-N
Frequent UP-N commuters may consider a Monthly Pass.
Metra’s published fare chart says Monthly Passes provide unlimited rides for the calendar month between selected zones on weekdays, with systemwide weekend travel under the applicable monthly-pass rules.
Current full-fare monthly prices listed by Metra include:
| Zone Combination | Monthly Pass |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 / Zones 1–2 | $75 |
| Zones 1–2–3 | $110 |
| Zones 1–2–3–4 | $135 |
| Zones 2–3–4 | $75 |
Metra states that a Monthly Pass can provide 15% or more in savings for riders who travel more than two days per week.
How to Buy a Metra UP-N Ticket
Passengers can purchase Metra tickets through several options.
Ventra App
The Ventra app allows passengers to purchase and manage Metra mobile tickets.
This is especially useful for travelers who want to buy their ticket before arriving at the station.
Ticket Vending Machines
Many Metra stations have ticket vending machines.
However, ticket-purchasing facilities vary by station. For example, the Metra station information for Glencoe states that the station does not have a vending machine and directs passengers to purchase onboard or through Ventra.
Onboard Purchase
Passengers may purchase tickets onboard subject to Metra’s rules.
When a ticketing facility is available at the boarding station, purchasing before boarding is generally preferable.
Metra Union Pacific North Line Train Tracker
The Metra UP-N train tracker helps passengers monitor current train locations and service information.
A train tracker can be useful when:
- You are waiting at a station.
- You want to check whether your train is running.
- You are meeting someone at Ogilvie.
- You are traveling during bad weather.
- You need to monitor possible delays.
For the most accurate information, use Metra’s official real-time service tools rather than relying on third-party schedule websites.
Metra UP-N Service Alerts
Service alerts can affect the Union Pacific North Line because of:
- Track work
- Equipment issues
- Weather
- Signal problems
- Special events
- Construction
- Schedule changes
- Unexpected delays
Check current alerts before traveling, especially if you have an important appointment or connection.
Metra Union Pacific North Line Parking
Parking availability varies significantly by station.
Some UP-N stations provide commuter parking, while others are more oriented toward walking, local transit, or drop-off access.
For example, Metra’s station information for Glencoe lists multiple parking lots and hundreds of spaces, while Peterson/Ridge has a smaller parking facility.
Before driving to a station, check:
- Parking availability
- Daily parking rules
- Payment method
- Reserved parking requirements
- ADA spaces
- Overnight parking restrictions
- Local parking regulations
Station-specific parking information is more reliable than assuming that every UP-N station has the same parking policy.
Metra UP-N Accessibility
Accessibility varies by station.
Metra’s accessibility guide identifies several UP-N stations as fully accessible, while some stations have partial or limited accessibility. The guide, for example, identifies Ogilvie, Rogers Park, Evanston stations, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Waukegan, Zion, Winthrop Harbor and Kenosha among accessible stations, while some stations have different accessibility classifications.
Passengers with mobility requirements should verify the current accessibility status of their origin and destination stations before traveling.
UP-N Connections to Other Transportation
The Union Pacific North Line connects passengers with other Chicago-area transportation services.
At or near downtown Chicago, passengers arriving at Ogilvie can connect with:
- CTA services
- Local buses
- Regional transportation
- Walking routes through the Loop
- Taxi and rideshare services
At suburban stations, connections vary by location and can include Pace bus service and local transportation.
For example, Metra’s Peterson/Ridge station information lists Pace connections, while Glencoe lists Pace Route 213.
Metra UP-N vs UP-NW
The Union Pacific North Line and Union Pacific Northwest Line both operate from Ogilvie Transportation Center, but they serve different corridors.
| Feature | UP-N | UP-NW |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Terminal | Ogilvie | Ogilvie |
| Main Direction | North | Northwest |
| Northern Endpoint | Kenosha | Harvard |
| Major Areas | Evanston, North Shore, Lake County | Park Ridge, Arlington Heights, Crystal Lake |
| Wisconsin Service | Yes | No |
| Major Chicago Terminal | Ogilvie | Ogilvie |
UP-N is the relevant Metra route for passengers traveling toward Evanston, the North Shore, Waukegan, Zion, Winthrop Harbor, and Kenosha.
UP-NW serves a different corridor toward communities such as Arlington Heights, Crystal Lake and Harvard.
UP-N vs Milwaukee District North
UP-N and Milwaukee District North can serve some broadly similar northern suburban markets, but they use different downtown terminals and routes.
| Feature | UP-N | Milwaukee District North |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Terminal | Ogilvie | Chicago Union Station |
| Direction | North/North Shore | Northwest/Northern suburbs |
| Northern Endpoint | Kenosha | Fox Lake |
| Major Route Area | Evanston/North Shore/Lake County | Glenview/Northbrook/Libertyville |
| Wisconsin Service | Kenosha | No |
When choosing between routes, the most important factors are usually the origin station, destination, timetable, transfer requirements, and current service status.
Popular UP-N Stations
Some stations are particularly useful for commuters and visitors because of their location or surrounding destinations.
Ogilvie Transportation Center
Best for access to downtown Chicago and the Loop.
Davis Street
Useful for central Evanston and nearby commercial and educational destinations.
Wilmette
Convenient for Wilmette and surrounding North Shore neighborhoods.
Winnetka
Serves central Winnetka and nearby residential areas.
Highland Park
A major Lake County stop with access to the surrounding Highland Park community.
Lake Forest
Useful for Lake Forest-area destinations.
Waukegan
One of the most important stations in northern Lake County.
Kenosha
The northern terminal and the only UP-N station in Wisconsin.
Is Metra UP-N Good for Commuting to Chicago?
For travelers whose homes, workplaces, schools, or other destinations are located close to UP-N stations, the line can provide a direct rail connection to downtown Chicago.
The biggest practical advantages are:
- Direct access to Ogilvie
- Multiple stations along the North Shore
- Service to major northern communities
- Connection to Kenosha
- Multiple ticket options
- Mobile ticketing through Ventra
- Real-time service information
However, the best route for a particular journey depends on the station, destination, timetable, and required transfers.
Traveling on UP-N With Children
Families should check Metra’s current fare rules before purchasing tickets.
Metra offers specific fare provisions for children and families, and the applicable fare depends on the child’s age and the ticket arrangement.
For family trips, compare the applicable child fare with available Day Pass or Family Fare options before purchasing.
Traveling With Bikes on UP-N
Bike policies can vary according to train type, time of day, capacity, and current Metra rules.
If you plan to bring a bicycle, check Metra’s current bicycle policy before traveling.
Do not assume that every train has unlimited bicycle capacity.
Tips for Riding the Union Pacific North Line
1. Check the Current Schedule
Schedules can change, so check the current timetable before leaving.
2. Confirm Your Train’s Destination
Not every UP-N train necessarily travels all the way to Kenosha.
3. Check the Fare Zone
Know the fare zone of your origin and destination.
4. Buy Your Ticket Before Boarding
Using Ventra or a station vending machine can make boarding easier.
5. Check Service Alerts
Look for delays, construction, or station changes before your journey.
6. Verify Parking
If you plan to drive to the station, check the station’s current parking information.
7. Arrive Early
Give yourself enough time to find the correct platform, especially at busy stations.
8. Watch for Seasonal Ravinia Service
If you are traveling to a Ravinia event, verify whether Ravinia Park station is operating for your event.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metra Union Pacific North Line
What is the Metra Union Pacific North Line?
The Union Pacific North Line, or UP-N, is a Metra commuter rail route running from Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago to Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Where does the UP-N Line start?
The line starts at Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago.
Where does the UP-N Line end?
The northern endpoint is Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Does Metra UP-N go to Evanston?
Yes. UP-N serves Main Street, Davis Street and Central Street in Evanston, along with other stations in the surrounding North Shore area.
Does UP-N go to Waukegan?
Yes. Waukegan is one of the stations on the Union Pacific North Line.
Does UP-N go to Kenosha?
Yes. Kenosha is the northern terminal of the Union Pacific North Line.
Does UP-N go to Wisconsin?
Yes. The line crosses into Wisconsin to serve Kenosha.
How much is a Metra UP-N ticket?
The current full-fare One-Way price ranges from $3.75 to $6.75, depending on the applicable fare zones.
Can I buy a UP-N ticket on my phone?
Yes. Metra tickets can be purchased through the Ventra app.
Does UP-N have weekend service?
Yes, UP-N has weekend service. However, weekend schedules can differ from weekday schedules, so passengers should check the current timetable before traveling. Recent Metra weekend service documents show trains operating along the UP-N corridor.
Is Ravinia Park a regular UP-N station?
Ravinia Park is a seasonal station, primarily associated with the Ravinia concert season.
Can I track my UP-N train?
Yes. Metra provides real-time service information and train-tracking tools.
Does every UP-N train stop at every station?
No. Stopping patterns can vary by train. Always check the current timetable for your specific service.
Is UP-N accessible?
Accessibility varies by station. Many UP-N stations are accessible, but passengers with specific accessibility requirements should verify the current station status before traveling.
Which Metra line goes to Kenosha?
The Union Pacific North Line (UP-N) serves Kenosha.
Which Metra line goes to Waukegan?
The Union Pacific North Line serves Waukegan.
What downtown station does UP-N use?
UP-N uses Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago.
Final Thoughts
The Metra Union Pacific North Line is an important commuter rail route for Chicago’s North Shore and northern suburban communities, extending from Ogilvie Transportation Center to Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Its route serves a wide range of destinations, including Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Waukegan, Zion, Winthrop Harbor and Kenosha. The line also provides seasonal access to Ravinia Park during the applicable concert season.
For the best travel experience, passengers should check the current UP-N schedule, train tracker, service alerts, station information and fare calculator before departure. This is especially important when traveling on weekends, during holidays, during construction, or to stations with seasonal service.