Description
Make the most of your time in Glacier Country while exploring the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Spend your days with knowledge guides or exploring at your own pace with scenic evening rentals.
Going-to-the-Sun Road Guided Day Tour
Explore Glacier National Park with an expert education guide from the Glacier Institute, the park's official education partner. This full-day, guided journey follows the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road from West Glacier to St. Mary, with stops at Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and the St. Mary Valley.
Lasting 8 hours from the conveniently located Columbia Falls office, you'll find yourself in a small group of no more than 14 people, transported to a world with outstanding views of dramatic glacial valleys, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. See the highlights of Glacier National Park, such as West Glacier's Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and the St. Mary Valley, all while in a small-group tour with a knowledgeable outdoor education guide.
Begin your day in Columbia Falls, where you'll meet your guide and fellow travelers before making your way to the West Glacier Entrance. In a comfortable transit van with large viewing windows, your guide will handle the road while you enjoy the spectacular views of the Montana wildness.
Once in West Glacier, you'll quickly be near the foot of Lake McDonald, known for its spectacular view of the lake and multi-colored "rainbow" rocks.
The tour continues with highlights like the Lake McDonald Lodge and views along Upper McDonald Creek before the ascent toward Logan Pass and some of the most dramatic views along Going-to-the-Sun Road. With scenic overlooks and pullouts, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and capture each picture-perfect moment. Your round-trip journey covers the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road, allowing you to enjoy the view from both perspectives, traveling east and west.
Climbing your way along some of the most iconic stretches of Going-to-the-Sun Road, the tour stops in Logan Pass at the highest point of the scenic route. A highlight and must-see of Glacier National Park, Logan Pass is home to a world of epic views and notoriously difficult parking! Your knowledgeable education guide will lead you on a short interpretive stop near the Visitor Center before continuing onward to the towering peaks of the St. Mary Valley.
The tour will reach the eastern portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road, allowing iconic views of St. Mary lake before turning around and beginning the journey back to West Glacier. Before the last leg of your trip, stop for a scenic picnic lunch where you'll have the opportunity to rest and refuel for the final journey. A delicious lunch is an optional add-on in checkout or feel free to bring your own as well.
Retrace your steps back along the scenic route, traveling in the opposite direction for a new perspective and a second chance for more photos. Before you exit the park, stop for a short optional stroll to stretch your legs and take final photos. After your final stop, make your way back to the meeting point in Columbia Falls as your guide brings a close to your Glacier National Park adventure and Going-to-the-Sun Road tour.
Looking For More?
Check out these other educational day tours to learn more about Glacier National Park. Experience spectacular views and get up close with nature on a guided educational day hike or private tour.
Going-to-the-Sun Road Evening UTV Side by Side Rental
Cruise through Glacier National Park for a stunning sunset as you take in epic views along Going-to-the-Sun Road — at your own pace, on your own schedule. This self-guided rental begins near West Glacier where you can chart your own course; cruise along Going-to-the-Sun Road, enjoy and evening picnic aong the shores of Lake McDonald, or explore the surrounding Flathead National Forest.
If conditions allow, curise along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road toward Logan Pass for a truly breathtaking sunset — how far you go and how long you linger is entirely up to you. Beginning just a few miles from the West Glacier entrance, these top-of-the-line UTVs are perfectly suited for navigating the narrow mountain road while providing the ultimate 360-degree viewing opportunity.
The thrill of riding in a UTV adds a unique touch of excitement to your journey, making it more than just a scenic drive. You'll get a trail map, emergency radio, plus a quick orientation before you set off — but once you're on the road, the adventure is yours to shape.
An evening start gives you plenty of time to soak up a picturesque sunset, pull off for a short evening hike, or simply enjoy the ride at a relaxed pace. Create lifelong memories with a self-guided UTV experience built to explore Glacier National Park on your terms. Whether you're an avid photographer or just looking to soak in nature's beauty, this adventure suits all kinds of travelers.
With the option to rent a 2-seater, 4-seater, or 6-seater UTV, each rental comes equipped with helmets, an emergency GPS locator, and walkie-talkies to ensure a safe and memorable experience as you explore the park's scenic routes at your own pace.
Please check the current conditions in Glacier National Park when planning your trip. Rentals begin July 1 but portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road may not be accessible. 🚧
Additional UTV Rentals
Interested in a daytime rental to spend more time on your adventure? Check out these half-day and full-day rentals to explore the nearby Flathead National Forest or Glacier National Park.
Half-Day UTV Rentals
- Half-Day UTV Side by Side Rental - 2 Seater
- Half-Day UTV Side by Side Rental - 4 Seater
- Half-Day UTV Side by Side Rental - 6 Seater
Full-Day UTV Rentals