Union Pacific North UP-N Metra Schedule 2026: Commuter Guide, Fares, And Station Timetables
This guide details the Union Pacific North (UP-N) commuter rail line operated by Metra in northeastern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin. It does not cover Union Pacific freight operations or other regional rail lines sharing the Union Pacific name.
The Union Pacific North (UP-N) line serves as a primary transit artery for Chicago's northern suburbs and the North Shore community. Operating from the historic Ogilvie Transportation Center (OTC) in downtown Chicago, the line extends 51.6 miles north to Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Whether you are a daily commuter heading to the Loop, a student traveling to Northwestern University in Evanston, or a visitor exploring the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, understanding the 2026 schedules, ticketing rules, and operational changes is essential for a seamless trip.
Navigating the 2026 UP-N Metra Route and Key Corridor Stations
The UP-N line runs parallel to Lake Michigan, providing reliable transportation across Cook and Lake Counties in Illinois, and extending into Kenosha County, Wisconsin. Metra assumed direct control of operations on this line following the transition of service agreements from Union Pacific, resulting in unified scheduling and modernized customer communications.
Key transit hubs and major stations along the corridor include:
- Ogilvie Transportation Center (OTC): Located at 500 W. Madison St. in downtown Chicago, this terminal connects commuters to CTA bus routes, the CTA Clinton El station (Green and Pink lines), and nearby Union Station.
- Clybourn: A crucial transfer point on Chicago’s north side, allowing passengers to switch between the UP-N and the Union Pacific Northwest (UP-NW) lines.
- Ravenswood: One of the busiest non-downtown stations on the system, offering direct access to the Lawrence Avenue commercial corridor and the CTA Brown Line at Damen.
- Evanston (Main St., Davis St., Central St.): Davis Street serves as a major downtown Evanston transit hub, offering a direct, step-free transfer to the CTA Purple Line and various Pace bus routes.
- Highland Park & Ravinia Park: Highland Park serves as a core suburban station. During the summer concert season, Metra operates dedicated stops at Ravinia Park, dropping passengers directly at the park gates.
- Waukegan: A major terminal city and county seat for Lake County, serving as a high-volume boarding point for north-suburban commuters.
- Kenosha: The sole out-of-state station on the UP-N line, linking southeastern Wisconsin commuters to the Chicago metropolitan area.
Complete Weekday and Weekend Service Frequency on the Union Pacific North Line
Service frequencies on the UP-N line are structured to accommodate peak morning and evening commuter rushes, while maintaining consistent off-peak and weekend coverage. In 2026, schedule optimizations have increased mid-day and weekend frequencies to support flexible hybrid work schedules and leisure travel.
The following table summarizes the 2026 service patterns, approximate travel times from Ogilvie Transportation Center, and station classifications under Metra's regional zone system.
| Station Name | 2026 Fare Zone | Distance from OTC (Miles) | Approx. Express Travel Time | Peak Weekday Frequency | Off-Peak / Weekend Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ogilvie Transportation Center (OTC) | Zone 1 | 0.0 | — | Terminus (Every 10-15 mins) | Terminus (Hourly) |
| Clybourn | Zone 2 | 2.9 | 8 mins | Every 15–20 mins | Hourly |
| Ravenswood | Zone 2 | 6.3 | 14 mins | Every 15–20 mins | Hourly |
| Rogers Park | Zone 2 | 9.4 | 20 mins | Every 20–30 mins | Hourly |
| Evanston (Davis St.) | Zone 2 | 12.0 | 22 mins | Every 15–25 mins | Hourly |
| Wilmette | Zone 2 | 14.3 | 29 mins | Every 20–30 mins | Hourly |
| Winnetka | Zone 3 | 16.8 | 34 mins | Every 25–35 mins | Hourly |
| Glencoe | Zone 3 | 19.2 | 39 mins | Every 30–40 mins | Hourly |
| Highland Park | Zone 3 | 23.0 | 41 mins | Every 20–30 mins | Every 1–2 Hours |
| Lake Forest | Zone 3 | 28.3 | 48 mins | Every 30–40 mins | Every 2 Hours |
| Great Lakes | Zone 4 | 32.0 | 56 mins | Every 40–50 mins | Every 2 Hours |
| Waukegan | Zone 4 | 35.9 | 63 mins | Every 30–40 mins | Every 2 Hours |
| Kenosha (WI) | Zone 4 | 51.6 | 89 mins | 9 peak trains daily | 7–8 trains daily |
Pro Commuter Tip: Tracking the Real-Time Schedule
To avoid platform delays during inclement weather, rely exclusively on the Metra COMS (Customer Office Management System) real-time API or the Ventra App tracker. The physical schedules printed on pamphlets are subject to service alerts, track maintenance windows, and freight train interference. Checking the digital board at Ogilvie Transportation Center before boarding ensures you are on the correct express versus local train configuration.
Metro rail schedules - fairhg
Metra Fare Structure and Ventra Integration for 2026
Metra operates under a simplified four-zone fare structure. This system eliminates historical distance-based confusion and streamlines fare integration with the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Pace suburban bus services.
Single-Ride and Day Pass Fares
Fares are calculated based on how many zones your trip covers. The downtown Chicago terminal (OTC) is designated as Zone 1.
- Zone 1 to Zone 2: $3.75 One-Way
- Zone 1 to Zone 3: $5.50 One-Way
- Zone 1 to Zone 4: $6.75 One-Way
- Suburban-only trips (not entering Zone 1): Flat $3.75 One-Way, regardless of distance.
For unlimited daily travel, Metra offers two Day Pass options:
- $6.00 Day Pass: Valid for unlimited travel between Zones 1, 2, and 3 for a single calendar day.
- $10.00 Day Pass: Valid for unlimited travel systemwide (all zones, including Zone 4/Kenosha) for a single calendar day.
Regional Passes and Ventra Integration
The easiest way to buy, store, and use tickets is through the Ventra App, which is fully integrated across Metra, CTA, and Pace.
- The $75.00 Monthly Pass: Offers unlimited travel across all zones on the UP-N line and the wider Metra network.
- Regional Connect Pass: Monthly Pass holders can purchase an add-on for $30.00, providing unlimited riding privileges on all CTA buses, CTA El trains, and Pace fixed-route buses.
- Onboard Surcharges: Commuters boarding at stations equipped with active ticket vending machines or ticket agents must buy tickets before boarding. Purchasing a ticket from the conductor on the train under these conditions incurs an automatic $5.00 cash/credit card surcharge.
Essential Rules, Real-Time Alerts, and Bike Policies on UP-N Trains
To ensure safety and comfort for thousands of daily passengers, Metra enforces specific onboard operational policies.
Quiet Car Policy
Quiet Cars are designated on all weekday morning and evening rush-hour trains. On the UP-N line, the second car from the locomotive and the second car from the cab car are designated Quiet Cars. Inside these cars:
- Cell phone conversations are strictly prohibited.
- Headphones must be kept at a volume that cannot be heard by neighboring passengers.
- Conversations must be conducted in low whispers.
- Electronic devices must be set to silent or vibrate mode.
Bicycle and Pet Policies
Metra permits standard two-wheeled bicycles and electric bikes (under 100 lbs) on all UP-N trains.
- Bikes are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis in designated wheelchair-accessible areas.
- Bikes must be securely tied to the flip-up seats using straps provided on the train.
- Gas-powered bicycles are strictly prohibited.
- Small pets in enclosed carriers are permitted on all trains, provided they remain on the owner's lap or on the floor beneath the seat.
Troubleshooting Delays and Managing Construction Impact Along the North Shore
Metra's multi-year infrastructure modernization initiative continues to impact selected UP-N travel times. Commuters should expect minor scheduling adjustments due to ongoing bridge rehabilitation and track renewal projects.
Bridge Reconstruction Projects
A primary focal point of structural work is the ongoing UP-N bridge replacement project on Chicago's north side. Dozens of aging rail bridges between Grace and Balmoral streets are undergoing systematic replacement. This project requires temporary single-tracking configurations during off-peak hours, occasionally adding 5 to 10 minutes to mid-day and late-evening travel times.
Winter Weather and Signal Delays
During severe winter storms, the UP-N line can experience switch heater failures or downed trees along the heavily wooded North Shore corridor.
- Metra Tracker: Accessible via the Ventra App or Metra's official web portal, this tool uses GPS data refreshed every 15 seconds to display exact train locations and predicted arrivals.
- System Alerts: Passengers can subscribe to email or SMS alerts customized to their specific travel windows (e.g., weekday mornings between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM) to receive push notifications about delays exceeding 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About the UP-N Metra Schedule
What is the average transit time from Ogilvie to Kenosha on the UP-N line?
Express trains run from Ogilvie Transportation Center to Kenosha in approximately 85 to 90 minutes, while local service trains stopping at all intermediate stations require up to 105 minutes. Passengers should verify whether their selected train is scheduled to run beyond Waukegan, as only select runs extend all the way to Kenosha.
How much does a ticket cost from Evanston to downtown Chicago in 2026?
A one-way ticket from Evanston (Zone 2) to downtown Chicago (Zone 1) costs $3.75. Regular commuters can purchase a $75.00 Monthly Pass, which provides unlimited rides between these zones and across the entire Metra network.
Are bikes allowed on UP-N Metra trains during rush-hour commutes?
Yes, bicycles are permitted on all Metra trains, including peak-direction rush-hour trains. However, crews may restrict bicycle boarding if a train becomes exceptionally crowded or if the designated wheelchair-accessible spaces are required by passengers with disabilities.
How can I track UP-N trains in real time?
Real-time tracking is available through the integrated transit tracker in the Ventra mobile application. Alternatively, you can visit Metra's official website and enter your boarding station to view a live countdown of arriving trains and system status alerts.
Does the UP-N Metra line connect directly to O'Hare International Airport?
No, the UP-N line does not offer a direct connection to O'Hare. Commuters heading to the airport should ride the UP-N line to Ogilvie Transportation Center, walk three blocks east to the CTA Blue Line station at Washington/Wells, and ride the Blue Line directly to O'Hare.
Can I purchase tickets on the train with a credit card?
Yes, Metra conductors accept credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay for onboard ticket purchases. However, if you boarded at a station where a ticket agent was on duty or an active ticket vending machine was available, you will be charged a $5.00 onboard purchasing fee.
Plan Your Next Commute on the North Shore
Staying informed on schedule modifications, fare programs, and platform improvements ensures a reliable travel experience along Lake Michigan's western shore. To download the latest timetables, purchase mobile tickets, or check current train status, access the Ventra app on your mobile device or visit the official Metra commuter portal before heading to the platform.
