Glacier National Park, a jewel of Montana, USA, has long been a dream destination for those who love wild nature. It boasts a diverse ecosystem, from towering snow-capped mountains year-round and icy blue lakes as clear as jade, to vast pine forests and vibrant wildflower meadows. Amidst this majestic natural scenery, the Going-to-the-Sun Road appears like a soft silk ribbon draped across the heart of the park, offering visitors unforgettable experiences on one of the most beautiful mountain pass roads in the world.
Where is Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Going-to-the-Sun Road, also known as “The road to the Sun,” is a masterpiece of engineering and a tourist icon of Glacier National Park. This approximately 50-mile (80km) road cuts through the center of the park, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, which stands at 6,646 feet (2,026 meters). The road begins in the west, near the town of West Glacier, and ends in the east, near the St. Mary area.
To reach Going-to-the-Sun Road, visitors can travel to Glacier National Park by various means. The nearest airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, about a 40-minute drive from the park’s west entrance. From the airport, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to get to the park. If driving from other major cities in the US, you can take US Route 2 or US Route 93 to Montana.
Map of the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Journey to Explore Going-to-the-Sun Road
Going-to-the-Sun Road is not just an ordinary transportation route, but also a fascinating journey of discovery, taking you through the most breathtaking natural landscapes of Glacier National Park. Here are some must-see stops and experiences on this legendary route:
Start from Magnificent Lake McDonald
The journey to explore Going-to-the-Sun Road often begins from the shores of Lake McDonald, the largest and deepest lake in the park. Nearly 10 miles (16km) long and over 460 feet (140m) deep, Lake McDonald appears like a giant mirror reflecting the blue sky and the majestic surrounding mountains. The lake’s surface is as smooth as glass, dotted with colorful pebbles on the bottom, creating a vivid and charming natural painting.
Here, you can take time to stroll along the lakeshore, enjoy the fresh air, and admire the poetic scenery. Kayaking or paddleboarding on the lake is also a great experience to explore the beauty of Lake McDonald from a different perspective. If you love fishing, don’t forget to try your luck with the abundant trout and freshwater fish in the lake.
Turquoise waters of Lake McDonald
Conquer Majestic Logan Pass
Continuing the journey, Going-to-the-Sun Road begins to wind and climb, taking you to higher and higher elevations. The mountain pass road becomes more winding, clinging to steep rocky slopes, but in return, the surrounding scenery becomes increasingly majestic and awe-inspiring. Towering cliffs, white waterfalls cascading from above, and deep valleys opening up before your eyes make you feel small before the vastness of nature.
The highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road is Logan Pass, located right on the Continental Divide. Here, you can stop, gaze at the panoramic view of the overlapping mountains, and breathe in the fresh, cool air of the highlands. The Logan Pass Visitor Center provides useful information about the park and hiking trails in the area. From Logan Pass, you can choose from many different trekking routes to explore the pristine beauty of the highlands, the most popular of which is the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail leading to the beautiful Hidden Lake.
Panoramic view from Logan Pass
Discover Dreamy Hidden Lake
Nestled among the majestic limestone mountains near Logan Pass, Hidden Lake appears like a sparkling emerald in the midst of pristine mountains and forests. To reach the lake, you need to hike the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail, about 3 miles (5km) long, starting from the Logan Pass Visitor Center. Although the trail is somewhat challenging, the scenery along the way and the exquisite beauty of Hidden Lake will certainly not disappoint you.
Hidden Lake is famous for its clear, mirror-like water, reflecting the images of towering limestone peaks and the clear blue sky. Surrounding the lake are lush green meadows and dense pine forests, creating a poetic and peaceful setting. This is an ideal place for you to relax, enjoy the tranquility of nature, and observe wildlife such as mountain goats and bears living in the area.
Serene beauty of Hidden Lake
Witness Majestic Grinnell Glacier
Grinnell Glacier is one of the most accessible and famous glaciers in Glacier National Park. Located in the Many Glacier area, this glacier is surrounded by towering limestone mountains and lush green valleys. To admire Grinnell Glacier up close, you can take the Grinnell Glacier Trail, a challenging but rewarding trekking journey.
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is about 10.7 miles (17km) round trip, taking you through diverse landscapes, from forests and meadows to glacial lakes and finally to the foot of the majestic Grinnell Glacier. From here, you can see the turquoise glacier, icebergs floating on the lake, and feel the grandeur of wild nature.
Majestic Grinnell Glacier
Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Lake Many Glacier
Lake Many Glacier, located in the northeast of Glacier National Park, is another gem of this region. This lake is surrounded by towering mountains and lush green forests, creating a scenery that is both majestic and poetic. The lake’s water is clear and calm, reflecting the images of Grinnell Point and Mount Gould, creating a beautiful natural painting.
The area around Lake Many Glacier is also famous for many attractive hiking trails, such as the Grinnell Glacier Trail and Iceberg Lake Trail. Exploring these trails, you will have the opportunity to admire the pristine beauty of nature, observe wildlife, and enjoy the fresh air of the highlands.
Peaceful and picturesque Lake Many Glacier
Transportation Options on Going-to-the-Sun Road
To fully explore Going-to-the-Sun Road and Glacier National Park, you can choose from various transportation options, depending on your preferences and personal conditions:
Red Bus Tours: Classic bright red buses, dating back to the 1930s, are icons of Glacier National Park. With open tops, Red Bus Tours offer you stunning panoramic views and a unique travel experience. Each bus tour has a professional guide who shares interesting stories about the park’s history, culture, and nature.
Hiking Shuttles: For visitors who want to explore the park by hiking, Hiking Shuttles provide transportation to the trailheads and trail ends of popular trails on Going-to-the-Sun Road and the eastern part of the park. This service operates from early July to Labor Day.
Personal Cars: Driving yourself on Going-to-the-Sun Road is a wonderful experience, allowing you to stop at any point you like to admire the scenery and take photos. However, be aware that the mountain pass road is quite narrow and has many sharp turns, requiring experienced and careful drivers. During peak season, finding parking can be difficult, especially at popular attractions.
Bicycles: For those who love exercise and want to experience Going-to-the-Sun Road in a different way, cycling is an interesting option. However, keep in mind that the mountain pass road is steep and has many sections without shoulders, so cycling on Going-to-the-Sun Road requires good physical fitness and proficient cycling skills.
Classic Red Bus Tours
Best Time to Visit Going-to-the-Sun Road
The best time to explore Going-to-the-Sun Road is in the summer, from late June to mid-September. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the mountain pass roads have been fully opened after the winter snow. This is also the peak tourist season in Glacier National Park, so you should book accommodations and other services in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
In the summer, you can fully enjoy the beauty of Going-to-the-Sun Road, participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. However, keep in mind that the weather in the highlands can be unpredictable, so you should prepare warm clothes and rain gear to cope with any situation.
Summer is the best time to visit
Essential Tips for Visiting Going-to-the-Sun Road
To have a safe and fulfilling trip to Going-to-the-Sun Road, you need to keep a few things in mind:
Park Entry Ticket and Vehicle Reservation: From late May to early September, Glacier National Park requires visitors to have a park entry ticket and a vehicle reservation to drive on Going-to-the-Sun Road. You can book tickets and reservations online on the official park website.
Check Road Conditions: Before you depart, check road conditions and weather on the park’s website or contact the visitor center for the latest information.
Dress Appropriately: Weather in the highlands can change quickly, so you should bring layers of clothing, a warm jacket, hat, gloves, and comfortable hiking shoes.
Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks: There are few stops with dining services along the way, so you should prepare enough water and snacks to ensure your health throughout the journey.
Drive Safely: Going-to-the-Sun Road has many sharp and steep curves, you need to drive slowly, carefully, and obey traffic signs.
Keep a Safe Distance from Wildlife: Glacier National Park is home to many wild animals such as bears, mountain goats, elk… Keep a safe distance from them, do not feed them and do not disturb their habitat.
Going-to-the-Sun Road is not just a road, but also a wonderful nature experience journey, bringing you unforgettable memories of Glacier National Park. Plan and prepare carefully to explore this legendary route and enjoy the majestic beauty of the mountains, lakes, and glaciers here.