Your visit to Glacier National Park isn't complete without the breathtaking Going-to-the-Sun Road. The scenic route stretches 50 miles through the heart of glacial valleys and alpine wilderness.

The narrow byway passes crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls, traversing through picturesque valleys with breathtaking views and access to numerous hiking trails and countless adventures.

Whether it be a rainbow of colorful rocks along the shore of Lake McDonald or the dramatic views from atop Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a worthy bucket-list item for any visitor. With an expanse of dense cedar forests and hemlock groves, serene lakes, flowing waterfalls, breathtaking mountains, and hanging glaciers... where should you begin?

This is our ultimate guide to everything you need to know about Glacier National Park's most famous road. We'll help you prepare with expert tips and top activity suggestions from experienced and knowledgeable locals.

We’ll cover:

• Glacier Park Site Passes & Entrances
• When Is Going-to-the-Sun Road Open?
• Things To Do Along Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Wildlife Viewing on Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Cycling & E-biking Along Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Best Photo Spots On Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Going-to-the-Sun Road Facts & FAQs

Glacier Park Site Passes & Entrances

In order to access the National Park, all visitors are required to pay an entry fee and carry a valid site pass. Passes can be purchased at park entrance gates or in advance at recreation.gov. Annual or lifetime passes, such as the America the Beautiful Pass, are also valid in place of a site pass.

Beginning in 2026, international visitors and non-US residents will also be required to pay an additional fee for each person 16 years or older in the party.

Glacier Park Site Pass 

This pass is valid for Glacier National Park only, and is what most visitors will purchase if buying their pass at the entrance. The Private Vehicle Pass is a 7-day pass and admits the passholder and up to 15 passengers of a single, private, non-commercial vehicle.

• Glacier Annual Pass: $70 - Admits the passholder, passenger of one motorcycle, or up to 15 passengers of a single, private, non-commercial vehicle (car/truck/van).
• Private Vehicle Pass: $35 - Admits the passholder and up to 15 passengers of a single, private, non-commercial vehicle (car/truck/van) for up to 1 week. This is the most popular option and likely what you'll want to purchase. 
• Motorcycle Pass: $30 - Admits the passholder and passenger of one motorcycle.
• Pedestrian / Cyclist Pass: $20 - Admits one individual bicyclist, hiker, or pedestrian visiting without a private vehicle. Individual passes are not required for visitors under the age of 15. 

America the Beautiful Pass

The America the Beautiful Pass is available in multiple variations and can be purchased online at the usgs.gov. These passes allow access to hundreds of other National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands across the country. 

• Annual Pass: $80 - Provides access for one private vehicle or up to four people, where per-person fees are charged. 
• Senior Lifetime Pass: $80 - Valid for the lifetime of all US citizens and residents ages 62 and older.
• Military Pass: FREE - Annual passes are available for current US Military and Dependants. Lifetime passes are available for Gold Star Families and veterans.
• Access Pass: FREE - A lifetime pass offered to all US citizens and residents who have a permanent disability.
• Volunteer Pass: FREE - Offered to volunteers with 250 service hours with federal agencies that participate in the Interagency Pass Program 

Local Expert Tip: Non-residents should consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass for $250, which will cover the entrance fee and non-resident fee for one vehicle or up to 4 people at a per-person fee park.   

West Glacier & St. Mary Entrances

The West Glacier Entrance is the most popular starting point for the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Located near the gateway community of West Glacier, this entrance offers convenient access to the park's western highlights, including the vistas of Lake McDonald and its famous rainbow rocks.

On the eastern side, the St. Mary Entrance provides a less-busied entryway and drops you into the heart of outstanding Glacier Park views. Entering from this side allows visitors to experience the park's diverse landscapes, from open meadows to alpine heights, as they traverse the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Travel Tips From Whitefish & Kalispell

If you're staying in the Whitefish or Kalispell area, the West Glacier entrance is about 30 miles away but can become congested during peak travel times. St. Mary is about 130 miles and can be accessed by following US HWY 2 around the southern border of the park, then traveling north from East Glacier Park.

Local Expert Tip: Consider driving from Kalispell to St. Mary and back, making a large counter-clockwise loop around the park for outstanding views. Following this route highlights more of the east side of the park as well as the Blackfoot Reservation.

Get a Group Or Private Tour of Going-to-the-Sun Road

Perhaps you’re thinking to yourself, “that is WAY too early for me…. Or I just hate the stress of overcrowded parking and I want to avoid it at all costs!” In that case, book your own Privately guided tour or small group tour that includes entry to the park, like this Going-to-the-Sun Road driving tour. Or you can tour the road and delve deeper into Glacier on a guided hike to the famous Avalanche Lake which usually includes a trip up the first half of Going-to-the-Sun Road. 

If you don’t want to book a guided tour and want to DIY without a Vehicle Reservation AND you don’t like to wake up early, follow this simple trick. Show up in West Glacier at 3PM at which time no Vehicle Reservation is needed for the rest of the day!

Local Expert Tip: Let the 3PM rush die down and show up closer to 5PM with a plan to enjoy the entire evening in Glacier. You can enjoy significantly less crowds on the road (especially on the way back down) and appreciate an amazing sunset. Spice up your drive by renting an open-air UTV to drive up Going-to-the-sun Road in the evening, when no Vehicle reservation is needed.

When Is Going-to-the-Sun Road Open?

This is the million-dollar question when planning a trip to Glacier National Park. The full opening date of Going-to-the-Sun Road is weather-dependent and subject to snow removal efforts. Most years, the road is fully open to vehicle traffic in late June or early July.

If you are visiting any time in mid-June or earlier, it's best to plan for the alpine sections of the road to be closed. In the late spring and early summer, the road is partially opened during the "hiker/biker" season, allowing hikers and cyclists the opportunity to travel beyond the road closure.

Glacier National Park also remains accessible year-round, and some sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road are plowed in the winter.

Spring

Spring can be one of the most unique and dynamic times of the year to visit, as activity starts to pick up. Usually by late spring, you can drive about 16 miles to the Avalanche Campground. E-bike rentals and guided e-bike tours of Going-to-the-Sun Road are popular activities.

Summer

Peak summer months between July and September in Glacier National Park are the best time of year to see the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Historical opening dates land between late-June and early July, with some recent years as late as July 13.

Fall

While the opening dates of Going-to-the-Sun Road can be a bit tricky to nail down, the closing dates tend to be more regular. Park maintenance crews need time to close facilities and prepare the park for winter, so closing dates are usually around the 2nd or 3rd weekend of October.

Winter

If you're visiting between November and April, you can expect winter conditions, but the park remains open year-round. Most services are closed on the east side, but scenic tours or guided snowshoe tours beginning from Whitefish or Kalispell are popular ways to visit the park in the winter. Check out our guide to visiting Glacier National Park in the winter.

Things To Do Along Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road offers countless activities and adventures to discover, ranging from a day of relaxed sightseeing to summitting challenging mountain peaks or family-friendly rafting trips. Here are some of our must-do activities and top recommendations:

• Going-to-the-Sun Road Guided Day Tour: Travel the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road beginning in Columbia Falls. Visit the major highlights like Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and St. Mary Lake. Perfect for your first day visiting or a single-day trip to the park.

• St. Mary Falls Guided Day Hike: Located on the eastern side of Going-to-the-Sun Road, this guided hike highlights the majority of the scenic route and one of the most popular waterfalls in Glacier Park.

• West Glacier Scenic Driving Tour: Shortened itinerary focused on the West Glacier and Lake McDonald region of the park. Perfect for trips in May or June and late-season trips.
• Lake McDonald Kayak Rental: Enjoy a relaxing float on Lake McDonald with a paddleboard or kayak rental from Apgar Village. The perfect way to end a full day of adventure or kick back and enjoy a laid-back day on the water 

• Whitewater Rafting: Scenic river rafting along the Middle Fork of the Flathead River near West Glacier. Take on class II-III rapids with outstanding views of Glacier National Park.

• Going-to-the-Sun Road E-Bike Tour: Join a small group beginning in Columbia Falls and cycle your way along Going-to-the-Sun Road with a knowledgeable local guide.

Best Photo Spots on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road offers some of the most jaw-dropping photo opportunities in all of Glacier National Park. One of the top spots is Logan Pass, where you'll find panoramic views of rugged mountain peaks, wildflower-dotted alpine meadows, and often, close encounters with wildlife like bighorn sheep or mountain goats. Early morning or late afternoon light adds depth and warmth to your shots, making this an ideal location for both landscape and wildlife photography.

Another iconic photo op is the Wild Goose Island Overlook on the east side of the road near Saint Mary Lake. This tiny island framed by soaring peaks is one of the most photographed scenes in the park—and for good reason. Sunrise and sunset here can produce dramatic lighting and mirror-like reflections on the lake, perfect for capturing that classic Glacier National Park shot. For more sweeping vistas, the Jackson Glacier Overlook offers a chance to photograph one of the park’s few remaining glaciers, with interpretive signs that help put the view into context.

Don’t miss the Weeping Wall, a seasonal waterfall that spills directly onto the road itself. Photographers can capture stunning action shots of water cascading over the cliffs, especially in late spring and early summer when runoff is high. Meanwhile, Lake McDonald, located near the west entrance of the park, offers a serene foreground of colorful pebbles and calm waters that reflect the surrounding mountains—an ideal scene for both sunrise and golden hour photography. With so many viewpoints accessible by car or short walk, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a dream route for shutterbugs of all levels.

We've also compiled a list of our personal favorite sunset spots in Glacier, so be sure to check that out if you are looking to grab the perfect sunset photo.  

Some Key Tips for Glacier Photography

If you're an amateur photographer hoping to take some beautiful photos of a Glacier sunset, you'll want to be sure to make the most of your camera's settings. 

Whether you're using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even just your smartphone, a few quick tips can help you make the most of Glacier’s stunning scenery. First, aim to shoot during the "golden hour"—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is softer and more flattering. This is especially effective at locations like Lake McDonald or Wild Goose Island, where warm light enhances the natural beauty and creates dramatic shadows.

Use the HDR (High Dynamic Range) setting on your phone or camera to balance out bright skies and dark mountain shadows. A small tripod or stabilizer is also helpful for low-light shots at dawn or dusk, especially if you're photographing waterfalls like the Weeping Wall. Don’t forget to clean your lens—especially after a misty waterfall stop—and try using a polarizing filter if you have one to cut glare and bring out the vivid blues and greens of the landscape. Most importantly, take your time and enjoy the view—some of the best photos come when you’re fully immersed in the moment.

Top 10 Must-Sees Of Going-to-the-Sun Road

These top ten must-see locations are some of our local favorites and the most iconic views in the park. With short walks, sweeping overlooks, and easy access from the road, each spot offers unforgettable views without strenuous effort. Consider timing your stops around early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and golden light.

1. McDonald Falls

Located just after Johns Lake Trailhead on the north end of Lake McDonald
This roadside waterfall showcases the force of McDonald Creek as it rushes over a series of rock ledges into turquoise pools. The powerful sound and misty spray make it a refreshing stop, especially on warm days.

Local Expert Tip: Walk just upstream for a quieter, more intimate viewpoint perfect for photos and reflection.

2. Trail of the Cedars

Near Avalanche Creek, west side of the park
This easy, family-friendly boardwalk loop winds through an ancient grove of towering western red cedars—some over 500 years old. Lush ferns and moss-draped trees give this forest an almost otherworldly feel with a big payout overlooking the rushing Avalanche Creek gorge. 

Local Expert Tip: Extend your visit by continuing to Avalanche Lake, a moderate hike that leads to a stunning alpine basin.

3. The Loop

Midway up the west side climb, marked by a sharp switchback
The Loop offers sweeping views of the glacial valley below and is a popular turnaround point for certain hikes. From here, you can look up to see the ribbon of road snaking along the cliffs above.

Local Expert Tip: Hikers can use the Loop as a pickup or drop-off spot when tackling the Highline Trail as a shuttle hike or heading up to Granite Park chalet. 

4. Big Bend

Just before Logan Pass when heading eastbound
This wide, dramatic curve reveals one of the most iconic alpine views in the park, with sweeping meadows, distant peaks, and clouds that often cling to the ridgelines. It’s a favorite for photographers and wildflower lovers alike.

Local Expert Tip: Stop here in late July or early August to witness vibrant wildflowers in full bloom.

5. Logan Pass

Continental Divide, 6,646 feet elevation, summit of the GTTS Road
Logan Pass is the highest point on the road and a hub for some of Glacier’s best hiking trails, including the Hidden Lake Overlook and Highline Trail. The alpine meadows are teeming with wildlife like mountain goats and marmots.

Local Expert Tip: Parking fills by mid-morning in summer—arrive before 7:30 AM or after 5 PM for better chances.

6. Jackson Glacier Overlook

Between Logan Pass and St. Mary Lake, east side of the road
One of the few spots where you can see an actual glacier from the road and one of Glacier’s most iconic, towering peaks, the same one you see when landing at Glacier National Airport from the other direction. 

Local Expert Tip: Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to appreciate the glacier’s scale and texture.

7. St. Mary Falls

Trailhead just off the road near Sunrift Gorge on the east side
A short and relatively easy hike brings you to this double-tiered waterfall pouring into a turquoise pool. The trail is well-maintained and shaded, making it a perfect stop for families.

Local Expert Tip: Continue another mile to Virginia Falls for a taller and even more dramatic cascade.

8. Wild Goose Island Overlook

Along the northeast shore of St. Mary Lake
This postcard-perfect viewpoint features a tiny island in the center of St. Mary Lake, framed by sharp peaks and alpine waters. It’s one of the most photographed locations in the entire park.

Local Expert Tip: Visit at sunrise for golden light, minimal wind, and mirror-like water reflections.

9. Rising Sun and St. Mary Lake

East side of St. Mary Lake, just past the overlook
Rising Sun offers a peaceful break with a general store, boat dock, and access to lakeside trails and picnic areas. The views across the lake are some of the most expansive and beautiful in the park.

Local Expert Tip: Pick up a huckleberry treat from the camp store and relax at the dock with your feet in the water.

10. St. Mary Visitor Center

Just outside the park’s east entrance, off US-89
This visitor center is your go-to resource for ranger talks, trail updates, and a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystem and history. It's a great place to regroup, refill water, and get your bearings.

Local Expert Tip: Check out the relief map inside for a bird’s-eye view of the terrain you’ve just traveled.

Wildlife Viewing on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Glacier National Park is home to a diverse set of wildlife, and you’re likely to come across something during your drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road. While wildlife viewing is never guaranteed, here is a list of some of the animals that inhabit the park and where you might see them.

• Grizzly Bears: Glacier National Park has one of the largest remaining grizzly bear populations in the lower 48 states. Some grizzlies spend all summer in the lowland meadows of East Glacier.
• Black Bears: Black bears are much more common than grizzlies and live primarily in the forests, alpine meadows, and anywhere that berry bushes are plentiful.
• Mountain Goats: Look to the cliffs in the high alpine regions to spot a Rocky Mountain goat! They are commonly seen at Logan Pass.
• Bighorn Sheep: Often traveling in flocks, they prefer alpine meadows and grassy mountain slopes. They are often spotted around Logan Pass.
• Elk: In the summer, elk typically stay at high elevations and have been seen in herds around Two Dog Flats on the east side.
• Moose: While moose and elk may look similar from a distance, they are very different! Moose are solitary animals and are not afraid of humans; you should take precautions as seriously as you would with a bear. They prefer forested areas, lakes, and low-lying marshy areas.

Remember to never approach any type of wildlife. Keep your distance, not only for your safety but to ensure the animals do not become habituated around people and cars.

When exploring Going-to-the-Sun Road and Glacier National Park, it's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles and be bear aware. Carry bear spray, store food properly, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Don't forget to check out our guide to bear safety.

Cycling & E-biking Going-to-the-Sun Road

Cycling and e-biking have become a popular way to explore Going-to-the-Sun Road, especially in the spring and fall when vehicle traffic is lighter. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Biking in Glacier to ensure you are fully prepared for a two-wheeled adventure in the park!

E-bikes are allowed on the road as long as they meet the National Park Service's regulations which do not allow for throttled e-bikes, only pedal-assist so be sure to check your manufacturer settings if bringing your own e-bike. The more popular approach is from the west side to Logan Pass where you can expect challenging climbs and outstanding views. 

Between June 15th and Labor Day, the road is closed to bicyclists between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. from the Apgar turnoff to Sprague Creek Campground, and eastbound (uphill) from Logan Creek to Logan Pass. It's only recommended for experienced cyclists to consider bicycling on the Going-to-the-Sun Road during the peak summer season.

Is It Difficult To Bike Going-to-the-Sun Road?

The road gains about 3,300 ft in elevation at a gentle grade, offering an incredibly rewarding workout. It’s important to note that there is ongoing road rehabilitation where portions may not be paved, so you’ll need to use extra caution riding on these portions of gravel.

There is a hiker/biker shuttle service available to transport riders and their gear from the Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side to the gate at Avalanche Creek.

Make sure to read the biking safety, regulations, and fees and always check the current road status before heading out.

Local Expert Tip: Mark your calendar for a full-moon bike ride! These illuminated night rides are popular among locals for a truly special adventure.

Best Photo Spots on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road provides stunning photo opportunities in Glacier National Park. Key spots include Logan Pass, with panoramic views of mountain peaks and alpine meadows, and often wildlife like bighorn sheep. Early or late light enhances photos, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography.

The Wild Goose Island Overlook near Saint Mary Lake offers iconic shots. The tiny island, framed by peaks, is highly photographed, especially during sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting and reflections. Jackson Glacier Overlook provides views of one of the park's few remaining glaciers, with interpretive signs for context.

Don’t miss the Weeping Wall, a seasonal waterfall that spills onto the road, perfect for capturing cascading water, especially in late spring and early summer. Lake McDonald offers colorful pebbles and calm waters reflecting mountains, ideal for sunrise and golden hour shots. With many accessible viewpoints, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a dream for photographers.

We've also compiled a list of our personal favorite sunset spots in Glacier, so be sure to check that out if you are looking to grab the perfect sunset photo.  

Expert Tips for Glacier Park Photography

If you're an amateur photographer aiming to capture a Glacier sunset, optimize your camera settings. 

Whether using a DSLR, mirrorless, or smartphone, a few tips can enhance Glacier’s scenery. Shoot during the "golden hour"—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—when light is softer, especially at Lake McDonald or Wild Goose Island, where warm light enhances beauty and shadows.

Use HDR (High Dynamic Range) to balance bright skies and dark shadows. A tripod is helpful for low-light shots, especially for waterfalls like the Weeping Wall. Clean your lens after misty stops and use a polarizing filter to cut glare and enhance colors. Most importantly, enjoy the view—the best photos come when you’re immersed in the moment.

Places to Stay & Where to Eat near Going-to-the-Sun Road

Accommodations in and around Glacier National Park range from historic lodges to cozy cabins and campgrounds. When planning your trip to the park, one of the most important aspects to consider is where to stay and where to eat. Fortunately, the park offers a range of accommodations to fit every budget and preference.

For those who prefer a more traditional lodging experience, several historic lodges within the park offer comfortable accommodations and stunning views, such as the Lake McDonald Lodge, Rising Sun Motor Inn, and Belton Chalet.

• Lake McDonald Lodge is located on the north shore of the park's largest lake. This rustic hunting lodge offers a variety of room types, from cozy guest rooms to spacious suites with simple yet modern amenities.
• Rising Sun Motor Inn is found on the eastern side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and offers a more rustic experience. This lodge features simple and comfortable rooms, as well as a restaurant and gift shop.
• The Belton Chalet is a must-visit for those looking for a unique stay. This historic railway hotel was built in 1910 and has been beautifully restored to its original glory. The hotel offers both guest rooms and suites, as well as an excellent restaurant and lounge.

If you prefer tent poles to room keys, there are several campgrounds located throughout the park that offer both RV and tent camping options. Many of these campgrounds also have picnic areas where you can enjoy your own packed or camp-prepared meals.

Where To Eat Along Going-to-the-Sun Road

In short, bring food along on your Going-to-the-Sun Road journey because there are essentially no opportunities to buy any food along the way. The one exception to that would be eating at The Lake McDonald Lodge which has several great options from their local pizzeria to Russels Fireside Dining which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to hotel guests and the general public. 

West Glacier Food Options

The west side of Glacier National Park is more developed, with easier access to lodging, shops, and dining. If you’re kicking off your GTTS journey from West Glacier or wrapping up a day on the trails, these spots will fuel you up in style. 

• Belton Grill Dining & Tap Room Upscale dining inside the historic Belton Chalet featuring Montana-inspired dishes and craft cocktails.
• Freda's Bar A laid-back watering hole and eatery serving American fare with a rustic Glacier twist—great for a post-hike burger and beer. Just next door is the West Glacier Mercantile, which is the perfect place to grab a sandwich and bag of chips on your way into the park if you’re needing some last-minute sustenance. 
• Glacier Highland Restaurant & Gifts A classic roadside diner with hearty breakfasts, burgers, and huckleberry shakes. Perfect for fueling up before a day on the trail.
• Park Provisions is found just outside the West Glacier entrance in the community of Coram. Locally sourced ingredients and orders you can place weeks in advance make it a perfect spot to pick up a quick trail lunch.

Best Dining Near St. Mary

The east entrance at St. Mary is quieter and more remote, but still offers a few gems. It’s the perfect place to unwind after taking in the alpine majesty of Logan Pass or exploring Many Glacier.

• The Park Cafe  - A good spot for grab-and-go food on your way into the park, and even better stop for comfort food and their famous huckleberry pie to celebrate a great day in the park. A Glacier tradition that’s worth the calories.
• Curly Bear Cafe - A relaxed cafe with burgers, breakfast buffets, and pizzas. Great for families or anyone wanting no-frills, satisfying food.
• Snow Goose Cafe - Located in St. Mary village, this is a great spot to refuel. Guest Steven said it well in his review, “Amazing waitstaff, the steak frites were great, awesome salads. Excellent draft beer list (ALL MONTANA BEERS!!!) and signature cocktails are all made with Montana spirits!”

Going-to-the-Sun Road FAQs

What is the Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Going-to-the-Sun Road is 51 miles and travels through the middle of Glacier National Park between the gateway communities of West Glacier and St. Mary. Crossing over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, the scenic byway is the only through route in the park, traveling from east to west.

Built to help increase civilian access to the park, the scenic route took nearly 2 decades to complete before its opening in 1932. By today's standards, we can only imagine how difficult it was to construct this engineering masterpiece in such exposed and difficult terrain.

How Did Going-to-the-Sun Road Get The Name?

There are a few theories, but the most common explanation is that the name comes from Going-to-the-Sun Mountain, which sits to the east of Logan Pass and is visible from the visitor center (just ask a park employee!). The legend comes from the native Blackfeet Nation that their Sun God came down from the sacred mountain in a time of great misfortune to help them hunt.

After returning to the sun, an image of the deity wearing a headdress was placed on the mountain. This was the inspiration for the Blackfeet naming the sacred mountain.

Is Going-to-the-Sun Road ADA Accessible?

Visitors with mobility challenges can enjoy ADA-accessible stops along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. The Logan Pass Visitor Center, at the road's highest point, offers accessible restrooms, walkways, and parking. While the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail isn't fully wheelchair-accessible, its boardwalk section allows those with limited mobility to enjoy alpine views and wildlife like mountain goats and marmots.

The Wild Goose Island Overlook, a highly photographed spot, is accessible via a short paved path, offering views of Saint Mary Lake and peaks. The nearby St. Mary Visitor Center provides ADA-accessible exhibits, restrooms, and ranger-led programs.

Apgar Village, at the park's west entrance, is ADA-friendly with accessible facilities including shops, restrooms, and Lake McDonald views. The Apgar Visitor Center offers accessibility info and paved paths, with accessible shuttle boarding in summer. These stops ensure all can enjoy Going-to-the-Sun Road's beauty without barriers.

Going-to-the-Sun Road By The Numbers

The full route spans 50 miles and takes an average of 2-3 hours to drive depending on traffic and the number of stops made. We'll be honest here, the highway is narrow, travels along soaring cliffs, and is frequented by many other vehicles, cyclists, and wildlife, so safety precautions should be taken.

The road has one switchback located at 'The Loop' where it begins to climb at a grade of 6% to its summit at Logan Pass. On the lower elevations, the speed limit is 40 mph, and at the alpine section, the limit is 25 mph.

It's important to familiarize yourself with park information and policy so be sure to also check out the official webpage for Going-to-the-Sun Road General Info.

Local Expert Tip: Logan Pass is a notoriously difficult place to find parking. Expect the parking lot to be full between 7-8 a.m. so don't be afraid to start your day early!

Is Going-to-the-Sun Road Accessible in Winter?

Maintaining the road is no small task. Dozens of bulldozers and rotary plows work to clear the road of the snowpack that can sometimes be 80 ft at Logan Pass and even more to the east. Avalanche experts watch conditions to help keep the workers safe.

It’s a monumental challenge every year that is well worth the effort for access to this incredible landscape. Due to unpredictable weather, sometimes crews have to re-plow, which is why the Spring opening date is impossible to determine ahead of time.

Check out the NPS plowing status page and up-to-date current conditions.

What’s the best direction to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Our personal favorite is to head in from the east side (St Mary) and drive east to west, finishing your drive with Huckleberry ice cream in Apgar beside Lake McDonald. With that said, entering West Glacier is the most popular route, and you just can’t go wrong either way. 

What time should I arrive at Logan Pass to get parking?

Over the past few years, Logan Pass has been filling up as early as 7 AM. Of course, people often come and go if you’ve got some patience to snag an opening or head a few hundred yards east towards Lunch Creek, where there is parking along the side of the road. 

How long does it take to drive the whole road?

Assuming no traffic, plan around 2.5 hours to drive the entire length of Going-to-the-Sun Road from one end to the other without stops. 

Can you drive Going-to-the-Sun Road on a day trip from Whitefish / Kalispell?

Absolutely. You can drive Going-to-the-Sun Road as a day trip from Kalispell, even with time for some leisurely stops and hikes. You can either enter the West side and go up and back the GTTS Road or drive the southern border of Glacier Park along Hwy. 2 and enter the park at St. Mary to drive GTTS Road from East to West and come out at West Glacier.

Get Your Personalized Going-to-the-Sun Road Itinerary

After this ultimate guide, there should be no doubt that Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Glacier National Park.

If you’d like free tips from a local about how to plan your visit or what activities you should plan along the way, let us create a free itinerary for your Glacier visit. That’s part of what we love to do, and frankly, we’re pretty good at it. By answering a few quick questions, you can get a truly personalized list of things to do from our team to get the ball rolling. 

Plan your visit, respect the environment, and enjoy the journey along this iconic road.