The Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line is one of Chicago’s most important commuter rail routes, connecting downtown Chicago with vibrant northwest suburbs through fast, reliable, and convenient transportation. Stretching from Ogilvie Transportation Center to Harvard and McHenry, this line serves thousands of daily passengers with frequent service, comfortable seating, and easy access to major residential and business districts. Whether you’re a daily commuter, occasional traveller, or visitor exploring the region, the Union Pacific Northwest Line offers an efficient alternative to highway traffic. Discover routes, schedules, stations, fares, and travel tips to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Schedules
Check today’s Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line schedule, train times, station stops, fare details, and service updates before your trip.
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Weekday Schedule
| Station | Train 602 | Train 604 | Train 606 | Train 610 | Train 614 | Train 618 | Train 620 | Train 622 | Train 624 | Train 626 | Train 628 | Train 630 | Train 632 | Train 634 | Train 636 | Train 638 | Train 640 | Train 642 | Train 644 | Train 646 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard | 5:30 AM | 6:00 AM | 6:30 AM | 7:00 AM | 7:50 AM | 9:20 AM | 10:20 AM | |||||||||||||
| McHenry | 5:24 AM | 6:24 AM | 7:24 AM | |||||||||||||||||
| Woodstock | 5:43 AM | 6:13 AM | 6:43 AM | 7:13 AM | 8:03 AM | 9:33 AM | 10:33 AM | |||||||||||||
| Crystal Lake | 4:15 AM | 4:45 AM | 5:15 AM | 5:55 AM | 5:45 AM | 6:25 AM | 6:55 AM | 6:45 AM | 7:25 AM | 7:45 AM | 8:15 AM | 8:45 AM | 9:45 AM | 10:45 AM | ||||||
| Pingree Road | 4:18 AM | 4:48 AM | 5:18 AM | 5:38 AM | 5:58 AM | 5:48 AM | 6:28 AM | 6:38 AM | 6:58 AM | 6:48 AM | 7:28 AM | 7:38 AM | 7:48 AM | 8:18 AM | 8:48 AM | 9:48 AM | 10:48 AM | |||
| Cary | 4:24 AM | 4:54 AM | 5:24 AM | 6:04 AM | 5:54 AM | 6:34 AM | 7:04 AM | 6:54 AM | 7:34 AM | 7:54 AM | 8:24 AM | 8:54 AM | 9:54 AM | 10:54 AM | ||||||
| Fox River Grove | 4:27 AM | 4:57 AM | 5:27 AM | 6:07 AM | 5:57 AM | 6:37 AM | 7:07 AM | 6:57 AM | 7:37 AM | 7:57 AM | 8:27 AM | 8:57 AM | 9:57 AM | 10:57 AM | ||||||
| Barrington | 4:35 AM | 5:05 AM | 5:35 AM | 5:51 AM | 6:15 AM | 6:05 AM | 6:21 AM | 6:45 AM | 6:51 AM | 7:15 AM | 7:05 AM | 7:21 AM | 7:45 AM | 7:51 AM | 8:05 AM | 8:35 AM | 9:05 AM | 10:05 AM | 11:05 AM | |
| Palatine | 4:42 AM | 5:12 AM | 5:42 AM | 5:58 AM | 6:22 AM | 6:12 AM | 6:28 AM | 6:41 AM | 6:52 AM | 6:58 AM | 7:22 AM | 7:12 AM | 7:28 AM | 7:52 AM | 7:58 AM | 8:12 AM | 8:42 AM | 9:12 AM | 10:12 AM | 11:12 AM |
| Arlington Park | 4:46 AM | 5:16 AM | 5:46 AM | 6:02 AM | 6:16 AM | 6:32 AM | 6:45 AM | 7:02 AM | 7:16 AM | 7:32 AM | 8:02 AM | 8:16 AM | 8:46 AM | 9:16 AM | 10:16 AM | 11:16 AM | ||||
| Arlington Heights | 4:49 AM | 5:19 AM | 5:49 AM | 6:06 AM | 6:20 AM | 6:36 AM | 6:49 AM | 7:06 AM | 7:20 AM | 7:36 AM | 8:06 AM | 8:19 AM | 8:49 AM | 9:19 AM | 10:19 AM | 11:19 AM | ||||
| Mount Prospect | 4:54 AM | 5:24 AM | 5:54 AM | 6:11 AM | 6:25 AM | 6:41 AM | 6:54 AM | 7:11 AM | 7:25 AM | 7:41 AM | 8:11 AM | 8:24 AM | 8:54 AM | 9:24 AM | 10:24 AM | 11:24 AM | ||||
| Cumberland | 4:57 AM | 5:27 AM | 5:57 AM | 6:14 AM | 6:28 AM | 6:44 AM | 7:14 AM | 7:28 AM | 7:44 AM | 8:14 AM | 8:27 AM | 8:57 AM | 9:27 AM | 10:27 AM | 11:27 AM | |||||
| Des Plaines | 5:01 AM | 5:31 AM | 6:01 AM | 6:18 AM | 6:32 AM | 6:48 AM | 7:18 AM | 7:07 AM | 7:32 AM | 7:48 AM | 8:18 AM | 8:07 AM | 8:31 AM | 9:01 AM | 9:31 AM | 10:31 AM | 11:31 AM | |||
| Dee Road | 5:05 AM | 5:35 AM | 6:05 AM | 6:36 AM | 7:11 AM | 7:36 AM | 8:11 AM | 8:35 AM | 9:35 AM | 10:35 AM | 11:35 AM | |||||||||
| Park Ridge | 5:08 AM | 5:38 AM | 6:08 AM | 6:39 AM | 7:14 AM | 7:39 AM | 8:14 AM | 8:38 AM | 9:38 AM | 10:38 AM | 11:38 AM | |||||||||
| Edison Park | 5:11 AM | 5:41 AM | 6:11 AM | 6:42 AM | 7:17 AM | 7:42 AM | 8:17 AM | 8:41 AM | 9:41 AM | 10:41 AM | 11:41 AM | |||||||||
| Norwood Park | 5:14 AM | 5:44 AM | 6:14 AM | 6:45 AM | 7:20 AM | 7:45 AM | 8:20 AM | 8:44 AM | 9:44 AM | 10:44 AM | 11:44 AM | |||||||||
| Gladstone Park | 5:17 AM | 5:47 AM | 6:17 AM | 6:48 AM | 7:23 AM | 7:48 AM | 8:23 AM | 8:47 AM | ||||||||||||
| Jefferson Park | 5:20 AM | 5:50 AM | 6:20 AM | 6:51 AM | 7:26 AM | 7:51 AM | 8:26 AM | 8:50 AM | 9:13 AM | 9:48 AM | 10:48 AM | 11:48 AM | ||||||||
| Irving Park | 5:24 AM | 5:54 AM | 6:24 AM | 6:55 AM | 7:30 AM | 7:55 AM | 8:30 AM | 8:54 AM | 9:52 AM | 10:52 AM | 11:52 AM | |||||||||
| Clybourn | 5:31 AM | 6:01 AM | 6:31 AM | 6:35 AM | 7:02 AM | 7:05 AM | 7:35 AM | 7:37 AM | 8:02 AM | 8:05 AM | 8:35 AM | 8:37 AM | 9:01 AM | 9:18 AM | 9:59 AM | 10:59 AM | 11:59 AM | |||
| Ogilvie (OTC) | 5:42 AM | 6:12 AM | 6:42 AM | 6:46 AM | 7:02 AM | 7:13 AM | 7:16 AM | 7:25 AM | 7:32 AM |
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Weekend Schedule
| Station | Train 701 | Train 703 | Train 705 | Train 707 | Train 709 | Train 711 | Train 713 | Train 715 | Train 717 | Train 719 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard | 6:00 AM | 7:30 AM | 9:00 AM | 11:00 AM | 1:00 PM | 3:00 PM | 5:00 PM | 7:00 PM | 9:00 PM | 11:00 PM |
| Woodstock | 6:13 AM | 7:43 AM | 9:13 AM | 11:13 AM | 1:13 PM | 3:13 PM | 5:13 PM | 7:13 PM | 9:13 PM | 11:13 PM |
| Crystal Lake | 4:45 AM | 6:15 AM | 7:45 AM | 9:45 AM | 11:45 AM | 1:45 PM | 3:45 PM | 5:45 PM | 7:45 PM | 9:45 PM |
| Barrington | 5:05 AM | 6:35 AM | 8:05 AM | 10:05 AM | 12:05 PM | 2:05 PM | 4:05 PM | 6:05 PM | 8:05 PM | 10:05 PM |
| Palatine | 5:12 AM | 6:42 AM | 8:12 AM | 10:12 AM | 12:12 PM | 2:12 PM | 4:12 PM | 6:12 PM | 8:12 PM | 10:12 PM |
| Arlington Heights | 5:19 AM | 6:49 AM | 8:19 AM | 10:19 AM | 12:19 PM | 2:19 PM | 4:19 PM | 6:19 PM | 8:19 PM | 10:19 PM |
| Des Plaines | 5:31 AM | 7:01 AM | 8:31 AM | 10:31 AM | 12:31 PM | 2:31 PM | 4:31 PM | 6:31 PM | 8:31 PM | 10:31 PM |
| Dee Road | 5:35 AM | 7:05 AM | 8:35 AM | 10:35 AM | 12:35 PM | 2:35 PM | 4:35 PM | 6:35 PM | 8:35 PM | 10:35 PM |
| Park Ridge | 5:38 AM | 7:08 AM | 8:38 AM | 10:38 AM | 12:38 PM | 2:38 PM | 4:38 PM | 6:38 PM | 8:38 PM | 10:38 PM |
| Edison Park | 5:41 AM | 7:11 AM | 8:41 AM | 10:41 AM | 12:41 PM | 2:41 PM | 4:41 PM | 6:41 PM | 8:41 PM | 10:41 PM |
| Norwood Park | 5:44 AM | 7:14 AM | 8:44 AM | 10:44 AM | 12:44 PM | 2:44 PM | 4:44 PM | 6:44 PM | 8:44 PM | 10:44 PM |
| Gladstone Park | 5:47 AM | 7:17 AM | 8:47 AM | 10:47 AM | 12:47 PM | 2:47 PM | 4:47 PM | 6:47 PM | 8:47 PM | 10:47 PM |
| Jefferson Park | 5:50 AM | 7:20 AM | 8:50 AM | 10:50 AM | 12:50 PM | 2:50 PM | 4:50 PM | 6:50 PM | 8:50 PM | 10:50 PM |
| Irving Park | 5:54 AM | 7:24 AM | 8:54 AM | 10:54 AM | 12:54 PM | 2:54 PM | 4:54 PM | 6:54 PM | 8:54 PM | 10:54 PM |
| Clybourn | 6:01 AM | 7:31 AM | 9:01 AM | 11:01 AM | 1:01 PM | 3:01 PM | 5:01 PM | 7:01 PM | 9:01 PM | 11:01 PM |
| Ogilvie (OTC) | 6:12 AM | 7:42 AM | 9:12 AM | 11:12 AM | 1:12 PM | 3:12 PM | 5:12 PM | 7:12 PM | 9:12 PM |
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Weekday Fares Details
| Zone | Stations Included | Adult Fare | Senior/Disabled Fare | Youth Fare (ages 7-11) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Ogilvie Transportation Center (OTC) | $5.00 | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| B | Clybourn, Irving Park, Jefferson Park | $5.75 | $2.90 | $2.90 |
| C | Gladstone Park, Norwood Park, Edison Park, Park Ridge, Dee Road, Des Plaines | $6.50 | $3.25 | $3.25 |
| D | Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Arlington Park | $7.25 | $3.60 | $3.60 |
| E | Palatine, Barrington | $8.00 | $4.00 | $4.00 |
| F | Fox River Grove, Cary, Pingree Road | $8.75 | $4.40 | $4.40 |
| G | Crystal Lake, Woodstock | $9.50 | $4.75 | $4.75 |
| H | McHenry, Harvard | $10.25 | $5.15 | $5.15 |
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Weekend Fares Details
| Zone | Stations Included | Adult Fare | Senior/Disabled Fare | Youth Fare (ages 7-11) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Ogilvie Transportation Center (OTC) | $5.00 | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| B | Clybourn, Irving Park, Jefferson Park | $5.75 | $2.90 | $2.90 |
| C | Gladstone Park, Norwood Park, Edison Park, Park Ridge, Dee Road, Des Plaines | $6.50 | $3.25 | $3.25 |
| D | Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Arlington Park | $7.25 | $3.60 | $3.60 |
| E | Palatine, Barrington | $8.00 | $4.00 | $4.00 |
| F | Fox River Grove, Cary, Pingree Road | $8.75 | $4.40 | $4.40 |
| G | Crystal Lake, Woodstock | $9.50 | $4.75 | $4.75 |
| H | McHenry, Harvard | $10.25 | $5.15 | $5.15 |
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Other Lines and CTA Trains
| Station | Metra Line Connection | CTA Train Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Ogilvie (OTC) | All Metra lines | CTA Blue Line, Pink Line |
| Jefferson Park | None | CTA Blue Line |
| Norwood Park | None | CTA Yellow Line |
| Edison Park | None | CTA Blue Line |
| Park Ridge | None | CTA Yellow Line |
| Arlington Heights | None | CTA Blue Line |
| Palatine | None | CTA Blue Line |
| Barrington | None | None |
| Crystal Lake | None | None |
| McHenry | None | None |
| Harvard | None | None |
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Route Start | Ogilvie Transportation Center, Chicago |
| Route End | McHenry, Illinois |
| Counties Served | Cook, Lake, McHenry |
| Total Distance | Approximately 63 miles |
| Number of Stations | 26 |
| Service Type | Commuter rail (local and express trains) |
| Major Stops | Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington, Crystal Lake |
| Operator | Metra |
| Frequency | Varies; more frequent during weekday rush hours |
| Connections | CTA trains and buses, other Metra lines |
| Purpose | Commuter transit between Chicago and northwest suburbs |
| Amenities | Station parking, bike racks, ADA accessible stations |
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Parking Information
Parking points of each station
1. Arlington Park (Arlington Heights, IL)
- Parking Address: 2121 W Northwest, Arlington Heights, IL 60004
- Management of: SP+ Parking
- Total Parking Space: 1,032
- Daily Only Parking: 26 spaces
- ADA Parking Space Accessible: 21 spaces
- Remarks: Two lots available.
- A ticket vending machine is available on-site.
2. Jefferson Park (Chicago, IL)
- Parking Address: 4963 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60630
- Council of: SP+ Parking
- Total Parking Space: 133
- Daily Parking: 50 spaces
- Parking Space Accessible: 4 spaces
- Parking Ticket: There is no ticket vending machine; parking tickets must be issued on the train or through the app.
3. Park Ridge (Park Ridge, IL)
- Parking Address: 100 S Summit Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068.
- Board/Commission: Park Ridge City Council
- Total Parking Space: 515
- Daily only Parking: 395 spaces
- ADA Parking Space Accessible: 8 spaces
- Parking Ticket: Yes, it’s available at the gate
- Remarks: 18 lots available.
4. Norwood Park (Chicago, IL)
- Address: 6088 N. Northwest Highway, Chicago, IL 60631
- Total Parking Spaces: 100
- Daily Only Parking: 100 spaces
- ADA Parking: Not specified.
- Ticket Purchasing: No vending machine; purchase tickets on board or via the Ventra app.
5. Pingree Road (Crystal Lake, IL)
- Address: 570 Congress Pkwy., Crystal Lake, IL 60014
- Managed by: SP+ Parking
- Total Parking Spaces: 709
- ADA Parking: 14 spaces
- Buying Tickets: No vending machines; buy on board or with the Ventra app
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Nearby Stations
- Jefferson Park
- Gladstone Park
- Norwood Park
- Edison Park
- Park Ridge
- Dee Road
- Des Plaines
- Cumberland
- Mount Prospect
- Arlington Heights
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Stations
- Ogilvie Transportation Center
- Clybourn
- Irving Park
- Jefferson Park
- Gladstone Park
- Norwood Park
- Edison Park
- Park Ridge
- Dee Road
- Des Plaines
- Cumberland
- Mount Prospect
- Arlington Heights
- Arlington Park
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Fox River Grove
- Cary
- Pingree Road
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- McHenry
- Harvard
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Nearby attractions
- Willis Tower
- Millennium Park
- The 606 Trail
- Pickwick Theatre
- Des Plaines History Center
- Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
- Mitsuwa Marketplace
- Arlington Heights Historical Museum
- Emmett’s Brewing Co.
- Barrington History Museum
- Three Oaks Recreation Area
- Woodstock Opera House
- Moraine Hills State Park
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- Union Pacific North Line
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The Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line (UP-NW) is one of the major commuter rail lines connecting downtown Chicago with communities across the northwest suburbs of the Chicago metropolitan area. The line operates between Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago and Harvard, with a branch extending from Crystal Lake to McHenry.
The route serves important communities including Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington, Cary, Crystal Lake, Woodstock, Harvard and McHenry. It is widely used by commuters traveling into Chicago as well as passengers traveling between northwest suburban communities.
Metra identifies the Union Pacific Northwest Line as one of its 11 routes, while its station guide lists the line from Ogilvie Transportation Center to Harvard and includes the McHenry branch.
The Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line, commonly abbreviated as UP-NW, is a commuter rail route running northwest from Chicago’s Ogilvie Transportation Center.
The main route extends to Harvard, while a branch travels from Crystal Lake to McHenry. The line passes through portions of Cook, Lake and McHenry counties.
Historically, the route developed from railroads that eventually became part of the Chicago & North Western Railway. Union Pacific acquired the Chicago & North Western in 1995, and the three former C&NW commuter routes in the Chicago area are now known as the Union Pacific North, Union Pacific Northwest and Union Pacific West lines.
Metra UP-NW Line at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Line Name | Union Pacific Northwest Line |
| Abbreviation | UP-NW |
| Downtown Terminal | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Main Northern Terminus | Harvard |
| Branch Terminus | McHenry |
| Main Route | Chicago to Harvard |
| Branch | Crystal Lake to McHenry |
| Major Suburban Areas | Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington, Crystal Lake |
| Rail Operator | Union Pacific under Metra’s commuter service arrangement |
| Main Downtown Connection | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Service Type | Commuter rail |
| Weekend Service | Yes on the main line |
| Accessibility | Most stations are accessible; individual stations vary |
| Major Transfer Opportunities | CTA and other Metra services in Chicago |
Metra’s system information identifies the UP-NW as one of the commuter routes operated by Union Pacific, while Metra provides the regional commuter rail service framework.
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Stations
The UP-NW Line serves a long series of stations between downtown Chicago and Harvard, plus the McHenry branch.
Complete UP-NW Station List
| # | Station | Area |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ogilvie Transportation Center | Chicago |
| 2 | Clybourn | Chicago |
| 3 | Irving Park | Chicago |
| 4 | Jefferson Park | Chicago |
| 5 | Gladstone Park | Chicago |
| 6 | Norwood Park | Chicago |
| 7 | Edison Park | Chicago |
| 8 | Park Ridge | Park Ridge |
| 9 | Dee Road | Park Ridge |
| 10 | Des Plaines | Des Plaines |
| 11 | Cumberland | Des Plaines |
| 12 | Mount Prospect | Mount Prospect |
| 13 | Arlington Heights | Arlington Heights |
| 14 | Arlington Park | Arlington Heights |
| 15 | Palatine | Palatine |
| 16 | Barrington | Barrington |
| 17 | Fox River Grove | Fox River Grove |
| 18 | Cary | Cary |
| 19 | Pingree Road | Crystal Lake |
| 20 | Crystal Lake | Crystal Lake |
| 21 | Woodstock | Woodstock |
| 22 | Harvard | Harvard |
| — | McHenry | McHenry branch |
Metra’s station guide lists these UP-NW stations and identifies accessibility at the individual-station level.
Metra UP-NW Route
The main UP-NW route travels northwest from downtown Chicago through Chicago neighborhoods and the northwest suburbs before reaching Harvard.
A simplified route is:
Ogilvie Transportation Center → Clybourn → Irving Park → Jefferson Park → Gladstone Park → Norwood Park → Edison Park → Park Ridge → Dee Road → Des Plaines → Cumberland → Mount Prospect → Arlington Heights → Arlington Park → Palatine → Barrington → Fox River Grove → Cary → Pingree Road → Crystal Lake → Woodstock → Harvard
The McHenry branch diverges from the main route at Crystal Lake:
Crystal Lake → McHenry
The UP-NW line therefore provides service to both the northwest suburbs and communities farther into McHenry County.
Metra UP-NW Harvard Branch
Harvard is the northern terminus of the main Union Pacific Northwest Line.
The route from Chicago to Harvard serves communities including:
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Cary
- Fox River Grove
- Barrington
- Palatine
- Arlington Heights
- Mount Prospect
- Des Plaines
- Park Ridge
Harvard is located approximately 63 miles from Ogilvie Transportation Center along the UP-NW route, according to Metra’s system information.
Metra UP-NW McHenry Branch
The McHenry branch is a shorter branch of the UP-NW Line.
It runs from:
Crystal Lake → McHenry
The branch is approximately 7.4 miles long according to Metra’s historical system documentation.
Unlike the main Harvard route, McHenry branch service has historically been more limited, particularly outside peak commuting periods. Passengers traveling to McHenry should therefore pay close attention to the specific timetable and train destination rather than assuming every UP-NW train continues to McHenry.
Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line Schedule
The Metra UP-NW schedule varies depending on:
- Weekday or weekend
- Direction of travel
- Train number
- Destination
- Harvard service
- McHenry branch service
- Rush-hour schedules
- Planned construction
- Service disruptions
Weekday service generally has a stronger commuter orientation, with trains scheduled for travel into Chicago in the morning and outbound service toward the suburbs later in the day.
The main UP-NW route also has weekend service, while the McHenry branch has historically had a more limited service pattern. Metra’s published station information and schedules should be checked for the exact date and destination.
Chicago-Bound Travel
For inbound passengers, trains travel toward:
Ogilvie Transportation Center
Passengers from suburbs such as Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington, Crystal Lake, Woodstock and Harvard can use UP-NW service for travel into downtown Chicago.
Outbound Travel
Outbound trains leave Ogilvie Transportation Center toward destinations including:
- Harvard
- Crystal Lake
- McHenry
Not every train serves every destination, so checking the train’s destination is important.
UP-NW Express Trains
The UP-NW corridor has multiple tracks in portions of the route, allowing some trains to operate with different stopping patterns.
Metra’s station guide notes that between Clybourn and Palatine, the route has three tracks and that the middle track is usually used for express trains. During peak periods, however, all tracks may be used to accommodate trains.
This means passengers should not assume that every train will stop at every station.
Always check the specific train’s timetable before boarding.
Metra UP-NW Line Map
A simplified UP-NW route map looks like this:
Chicago
↓
Clybourn
↓
Irving Park
↓
Jefferson Park
↓
Gladstone Park
↓
Norwood Park
↓
Edison Park
↓
Park Ridge
↓
Dee Road
↓
Des Plaines
↓
Cumberland
↓
Mount Prospect
↓
Arlington Heights
↓
Arlington Park
↓
Palatine
↓
Barrington
↓
Fox River Grove
↓
Cary
↓
Pingree Road
↓
Crystal Lake
↙ ↘
Woodstock → Harvard McHenry
This route structure makes Crystal Lake particularly important because it serves as the junction for the Harvard main line and McHenry branch.
Metra UP-NW Line Fares
The Metra UP-NW fare depends on the origin and destination zones and the ticket type selected.
Metra’s current fare system includes options such as:
- One-Way Tickets
- Day Passes
- Day Pass 5-Packs
- Monthly Passes
- Regional Connect Passes
- Weekend passes
Passengers can purchase eligible tickets through the Ventra app or at stations where ticketing facilities are available.
Because Metra fares and fare products can change, passengers should check the current Metra fare information for their specific origin and destination before traveling.
What Determines Your UP-NW Fare?
Your fare can depend on:
- Starting station
- Destination station
- Applicable fare zones
- Ticket type
- Whether you need a regional transfer
- Whether you are traveling on a weekend or holiday
For a long-distance trip such as Harvard to Chicago, the fare will differ from a shorter suburban trip such as Palatine to Chicago.
UP-NW Parking
Parking is available at many suburban stations along the Union Pacific Northwest Line, although parking arrangements vary by station.
Passengers commonly use station parking for daily commuting from communities such as:
- Park Ridge
- Des Plaines
- Mount Prospect
- Arlington Heights
- Palatine
- Barrington
- Cary
- Crystal Lake
- Woodstock
- Harvard
- McHenry
Parking availability, fees, permits and restrictions can vary by municipality or station. Check the individual station information before leaving your vehicle.
Metra’s station data shows that parking facilities are associated with many UP-NW stations, while downtown Ogilvie Transportation Center has a different urban access pattern.
Metra UP-NW Accessibility
Accessibility varies by station.
Metra’s station guide identifies Ogilvie Transportation Center, Irving Park, Jefferson Park, Norwood Park, Edison Park, Park Ridge, Dee Road, Des Plaines, Cumberland, Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Arlington Park, Palatine, Barrington, Fox River Grove, Cary, Pingree Road, Crystal Lake, Woodstock, McHenry and Harvard as fully accessible, while Clybourn and Gladstone Park are identified as not accessible in that guide.
Accessibility Status
| Station | Accessibility |
|---|---|
| Ogilvie Transportation Center | Fully accessible |
| Clybourn | Not accessible |
| Irving Park | Fully accessible |
| Jefferson Park | Fully accessible |
| Gladstone Park | Not accessible |
| Norwood Park | Fully accessible |
| Edison Park | Fully accessible |
| Park Ridge | Fully accessible |
| Dee Road | Fully accessible |
| Des Plaines | Fully accessible |
| Cumberland | Fully accessible |
| Mount Prospect | Fully accessible |
| Arlington Heights | Fully accessible |
| Arlington Park | Fully accessible |
| Palatine | Fully accessible |
| Barrington | Fully accessible |
| Fox River Grove | Fully accessible |
| Cary | Fully accessible |
| Pingree Road | Fully accessible |
| Crystal Lake | Fully accessible |
| Woodstock | Fully accessible |
| McHenry | Fully accessible |
| Harvard | Fully accessible |
Accessibility information can change as stations are upgraded, so passengers who require accessible travel should confirm current conditions before making a trip.
Metra UP-NW Train Tracker
Passengers can use Metra’s current train-tracking and service-information tools to monitor UP-NW trains.
A train tracker can help passengers determine:
- Where a train is located
- Whether it is running on schedule
- Estimated arrival time
- Train number
- Destination
- Service disruptions
This is particularly useful during weekday rush hours, winter weather, construction periods and other situations when train operations may change.
Metra UP-NW Service Alerts
Before traveling, check current Metra service alerts for the Union Pacific Northwest Line.
Service alerts can be issued for:
- Track construction
- Bridge work
- Signal work
- Weather
- Mechanical problems
- Schedule changes
- Special events
- Temporary station closures
- Delays
- Bus substitutions
For longer trips from Harvard, Woodstock, Crystal Lake or McHenry, checking the alert status before leaving home can help avoid unexpected disruptions.
Ogilvie Transportation Center and UP-NW
Ogilvie Transportation Center is the downtown Chicago terminal for the Union Pacific Northwest Line.
Passengers arriving at Ogilvie can connect with Chicago’s wider transportation network, including CTA services and other downtown destinations.
The station also serves the Union Pacific North and Union Pacific West Metra lines, making Ogilvie an important downtown Metra terminal.
UP-NW Downtown Connection
UP-NW → Ogilvie Transportation Center → Chicago Loop
From Ogilvie, passengers can walk to offices, restaurants, hotels and other destinations in the central business district or transfer to other Chicago transportation services.
CTA Connections Along the UP-NW Line
Several UP-NW stations provide connections to Chicago Transit Authority services or other local transportation.
Jefferson Park
Jefferson Park is an important transportation connection in northwest Chicago and provides access to CTA rail and bus services.
Clybourn
Clybourn provides access to local Chicago transportation and is also an important location near the junction shared with other Union Pacific routes.
Ogilvie Transportation Center
At the downtown end, passengers can connect to CTA services throughout the Loop.
When planning a multi-modal journey, allow extra time to walk between Metra platforms and CTA stations.
Popular UP-NW Stations
Some stations along the route are particularly useful for commuters and travelers.
| Station | Key Reason to Use |
|---|---|
| Ogilvie Transportation Center | Downtown Chicago access |
| Jefferson Park | Chicago transit connections |
| Park Ridge | Northwest suburban commuters |
| Des Plaines | Major suburban station |
| Mount Prospect | Access to Mount Prospect |
| Arlington Heights | Major northwest suburban destination |
| Palatine | Large suburban commuter market |
| Barrington | Access to Barrington |
| Cary | Northwest suburban access |
| Pingree Road | Crystal Lake-area commuters |
| Crystal Lake | Major station and McHenry branch connection |
| Woodstock | McHenry County access |
| Harvard | Main-line northern terminus |
| McHenry | Branch-line terminus |
Metra UP-NW to Arlington Heights
Arlington Heights is one of the major communities served by the Union Pacific Northwest Line.
The station is located approximately 22.8 miles from Ogilvie Transportation Center along the UP-NW route according to Metra system data.
Passengers use Arlington Heights station for:
- Downtown Chicago commuting
- Local employment
- Shopping
- Community events
- Suburban connections
Metra UP-NW to Palatine
Palatine is another major UP-NW station.
The station is approximately 26.4 miles from Ogilvie Transportation Center according to Metra’s system data.
Palatine provides access to the surrounding northwest suburban communities and is one of the important stations between Chicago and Barrington.
Metra UP-NW to Crystal Lake
Crystal Lake is one of the most important stations on the Union Pacific Northwest Line because it serves both local passengers and the McHenry branch.
The station is approximately 43.2 miles from Ogilvie Transportation Center based on Metra system data.
Passengers traveling beyond Crystal Lake should pay close attention to the train’s destination:
- Harvard-bound
- McHenry-bound
Metra UP-NW to Woodstock
Woodstock is located on the Harvard branch between Crystal Lake and Harvard.
It is approximately 51.6 miles from Ogilvie Transportation Center according to Metra’s historical system data.
The station provides commuter rail access to Woodstock and surrounding McHenry County communities.
Metra UP-NW to Harvard
Harvard is the northern terminus of the UP-NW main line.
The route extends approximately 63 miles from downtown Chicago to Harvard.
Harvard passengers can use Metra for commuter trips into Chicago and for travel to intermediate stations along the route.
Metra UP-NW to McHenry
McHenry is served by the McHenry branch of the UP-NW Line.
The branch leaves the main route at Crystal Lake and travels north to McHenry.
Because McHenry branch service is more limited than the main Harvard route, passengers should always check the current schedule to confirm which trains serve McHenry.
Who Uses the Union Pacific Northwest Line?
The UP-NW Line serves a broad mix of passengers, including:
- Daily commuters
- Downtown Chicago employees
- Students
- Suburban residents
- Weekend travelers
- Event visitors
- Tourists
- Business travelers
- Airport-area travelers making local connections
It is especially important for communities located northwest of Chicago that need direct rail access to downtown.
Benefits of Traveling on the UP-NW Line
The Union Pacific Northwest Line offers several practical advantages for regular riders.
Direct Downtown Access
The route terminates at Ogilvie Transportation Center, placing passengers directly in downtown Chicago.
Extensive Suburban Coverage
The line serves communities ranging from Chicago’s northwest neighborhoods to Harvard and McHenry County.
Multiple Major Suburban Stations
Stations such as Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington and Crystal Lake provide important commuter access.
Weekend Main-Line Service
The Harvard main line also provides weekend service, giving passengers an option beyond weekday commuting.
Convenient Connections
Passengers can connect with CTA and other Metra services at appropriate locations.
UP-NW Line Travel Tips
1. Check the Destination
Do not assume every UP-NW train travels to Harvard or McHenry.
2. Check the Schedule Before Traveling
Schedules vary by day and train.
3. Arrive Before Departure
Give yourself enough time to locate the correct platform and board.
4. Purchase Your Ticket Before Boarding
Use available station ticketing options or the Ventra app.
5. Watch for Express Trains
Some UP-NW trains skip intermediate stations.
6. Check Service Alerts
Construction and operational changes can affect normal service.
7. Plan Your Parking
If you are driving to a suburban station, verify parking availability and restrictions before your trip.
8. Check Weekend Service
Weekend schedules are different from weekday schedules.
9. Confirm McHenry Service
If traveling to McHenry, make sure the selected train actually serves the branch.
Metra Union Pacific Northwest vs Union Pacific North
The Union Pacific Northwest Line and Union Pacific North Line are two different Metra routes.
| Feature | UP-NW | UP-N |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Terminal | Ogilvie Transportation Center | Ogilvie Transportation Center |
| Primary Direction | Northwest | North |
| Main Terminus | Harvard | Kenosha |
| Major Suburbs | Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington, Crystal Lake | Evanston, Highland Park, Waukegan |
| McHenry Branch | Yes | No |
| Wisconsin Service | No | Yes, to Kenosha |
| Crystal Lake | Yes | No |
| Harvard | Yes | No |
Both lines share the same downtown terminal but serve different suburban corridors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line?
The Union Pacific Northwest Line, or UP-NW, is a Metra commuter rail route connecting Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago with Harvard, with a branch to McHenry.
Where does the UP-NW Line start?
The line starts at Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago.
Where does the UP-NW Line end?
The main line ends at Harvard. A separate branch runs from Crystal Lake to McHenry.
Does the UP-NW Line go to Crystal Lake?
Yes. Crystal Lake is an important station on the UP-NW Line and is also the point where the McHenry branch begins.
Does Metra UP-NW go to McHenry?
Yes. McHenry is served by the UP-NW branch from Crystal Lake. However, service is more limited than on the main Harvard route, so check the current timetable.
Does the UP-NW Line run on weekends?
Yes. The main UP-NW route provides weekend service. The exact schedule and branch service should be confirmed before traveling.
What is the downtown Chicago station for UP-NW?
UP-NW trains use Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Does the UP-NW Line go to Arlington Heights?
Yes. Arlington Heights is one of the major stations on the UP-NW Line.
Does the UP-NW Line go to Palatine?
Yes. Palatine is served by the Union Pacific Northwest Line.
Does the UP-NW Line go to Woodstock?
Yes. Woodstock is located between Crystal Lake and Harvard on the main UP-NW route.
Is the UP-NW Line accessible?
Many UP-NW stations are listed as fully accessible by Metra, although Clybourn and Gladstone Park are identified as not accessible in Metra’s station guide. Passengers requiring accessibility should confirm current station conditions before traveling.
How do I check the UP-NW schedule?
Check Metra’s current UP-NW timetable and trip-planning information for your specific travel date, origin, destination and direction.
How do I track a UP-NW train?
Use Metra’s current train-tracking and service-information tools to check train status and estimated arrival information.
Can I take the UP-NW Line from Chicago to Harvard?
Yes. Harvard is the northern terminus of the main UP-NW route.
How far is the UP-NW Line?
The main route from Ogilvie Transportation Center to Harvard is approximately 63 miles, with a separate branch from Crystal Lake to McHenry. Metra system documentation lists the full route structure at approximately 70.5 miles including the branch.
Final Thoughts
The Metra Union Pacific Northwest Line is an important commuter rail corridor connecting downtown Chicago with northwest suburban communities and McHenry County. From Ogilvie Transportation Center, the route travels through Chicago neighborhoods and communities such as Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Barrington, Cary and Crystal Lake, before continuing to Woodstock and Harvard.
The Crystal Lake–McHenry branch provides an additional connection for passengers traveling to McHenry.
For the best travel experience, passengers should check the current Metra UP-NW schedule, train status, fares, parking information and service alerts before starting their journey, particularly when traveling during weekends, holidays or planned construction periods.
