Going-to-the-Sun Road

Insider Tip: Grab your coffee to go and drive up Going-to-the-Sun Road at dawn. Witness the majestic alpenglow on Glacier National Park's mountain peaks as the sun rises. This is also your best chance to see wildlife before the road becomes too busy.

About Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road is a paved, two-lane highway that winds through Glacier National Park. It divides the park into eastern and western regions, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Renowned as one of the most spectacular scenic drives in America, this road holds the distinction of being both a National Historic Landmark and a Civil Engineering Landmark. It showcases nearly every type of terrain the park offers, from glacial lakes, waterfalls, and cedar forests to alpine peaks.

How to See It

Driving

The best way to experience Going-to-the-Sun Road is by driving. Several viewpoints and pullouts along the route allow you to stop, take in the views, and snap photographs. Consider signing up for a bus tour if you'd prefer to enjoy the scenery without driving.

Biking

If you prefer a more active approach, try biking along the road. Be aware that there are specific restrictions for cyclists. The best time to bike is typically in late April or early May, before the road opens to vehicle traffic. Although the West Entrance portion of the 50-mile route is open year-round, the alpine sections close due to snow. Generally, the entire road is fully open by late June or early July, but this can vary depending on seasonal snow conditions. Always check the park website in advance for the latest updates.

Tips and Recommendations

Recent visitors have described this scenic drive as "breathtaking" and highly recommended it despite the crowds. To avoid heavy traffic, reviewers suggest arriving early and being prepared to wait for a parking spot at Logan Pass. Consider taking the free shuttle provided by the National Park Service to avoid circling the popular Logan Pass Visitor Center parking lot for a spot.

Although the park service estimates that driving the entire road will take about two hours, it will likely take you longer if you stop to take photos or enjoy the views at various points. The speed limit on the lower portions of the route is 45 miles per hour, but it decreases to 25 miles per hour at higher elevations. Make sure to fill up your gas tank before entering the park, as there are no gas stations inside.

Amenities

During peak seasons, restaurants are open for business at Lake McDonald, Rising Sun, and Apgar Village. Visitors often pack a cooler and enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic stopping points. Vault toilets are available along the west side of the road and at Logan Pass, and there are full-service restrooms in Apgar Village, Lake McDonald Lodge, and St. Mary during peak summer season.

Vehicle Restrictions and Park Reservations

There are specific vehicle size restrictions, so check the park website for details. Access to the west entrance of Going-to-the-Sun Road requires a park reservation during peak hours in the peak season. Note that park admission is not included with the park reservation pass.