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Going-to-the-Sun Road Experience

2 tours

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.

Tour 1 of 2 (Glacier Park)

Going-to-the-Sun Road Guided Day Tour

4.91 (56)

8-Hour Duration

Lasts 8 Hours Start to Finish From Columbia Falls

Educational Tour

Learn More From Knowledgeable Education Guides

Easy Difficulty

Perfect For All Ages & Skill Levels

July - September

Available Dates Between July - September

Description

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.

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Seasonal Availability

Due to the seasonal opening of Going-to-the-Sun Road, tours are scheduled to begin on July 1, 2026.

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.

What's Included

Round-trip Transportation From Columbia Falls

Knowledgable Education Guide

Scenic Stops

Short Interpretive Walk

Guide Gratuity

Lunch (add-on)

Glacier National Park Entry Pass (required)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an entry pass?

Yes, all visitors to Glacier National Park must pay an entry fee. If you do not already carry a valid annual or lifetime pass, you can purchase your pass online at recreation.gov.

Will we see all of Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Yes, this tour follows the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road from West Glacier to St. Mary. The tour will include multiple stops and follow the route back again from St. Mary to West Glacier.

How big is the group we'll be touring with?

Group tours have a maximum of 13 people and a minimum of 3.

Will we see any wildlife?

Wildlife viewing is always a possibility, but it's never guaranteed. Spotting wildlife in Glacier can be less common than expected. Be sure to pack a good pair of binoculars and keep an eye on the mountain slopes for mountain goats and bighorn sheep!

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is just outside of Columbia Falls, and there is plenty of parking available. If you are staying along HWY 2 between Columbia Falls and West Glacier, we can arrange for a more convenient pick-up and drop-off along the way.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included but is available as an add-on for $18/person. There will be a designated stop for a picnic lunch, but there is no opportunity to purchase lunch in the park. Optional lunches include a sandwich, house-made trail mix, and a cookie or strawberry bar.

Turkey Pesto Trail Lunch
Deli Beef Trail Lunch
Caprese Trail Lunch
Vegan/Gluten Free Trail Lunch

Are there restrooms?

There is no restroom on the bus, but there are frequent stops along the tour for restroom breaks.

Should I be worried about bears?

Each guide has undergone in-depth bear safety training and is knowledgeable of numerous safety techniques. Bear and other wildlife encounters are always a possibility in Glacier National Park, and if you would like to learn more about bear safety, check out our travel guide Bear Aware: How to Stay Safe in Glacier National Park.

Is Going-to-the-Sun Road open in June?

Going-to-the-Sun Road typically opens in late June or early July, depending on snowpack each year. Our guided tours are scheduled to begin July 1, 2026. If conditions change, we will contact you directly. For the latest road status, check the NPS road status page.

What is the difference between this tour and a private Glacier National Park tour?

This group day tour operates with up to 13 guests and follows a set itinerary, making it a great value for solo travelers and families. For a fully customized experience with flexible stops, timing, and a dedicated guide, our Private Glacier National Park Tour is the ideal choice. Both tours are led by the Glacier Institute.

How difficult is the walk at Logan Pass?

The interpretive walk at Logan Pass is easy to moderate. The Visitor Center boardwalk is mostly flat and accessible for most guests. Logan Pass sits at 6,646 feet, so some visitors may feel slightly winded. Sturdy walking shoes and a light layer are recommended, as conditions at the pass can be windy and cool even in summer.

Do I need a vehicle reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road?

No vehicle reservation is required for this tour. Sit back, relax and enjoy the view and incredible guide on this world famous road through the heart of Glacier National Park.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour

Glacier National Park Site Pass is required, see FAQ for more info

This tour is considered easy difficulty; 1 mile nature walk with 50 ft elevation change

We can not guarantee all participants in your group tour will have equal hiking ability. Pace and distance traveled will be determined by your guide

This tour requires a minimum of 3 participants. In the unlikely case we don’t reach that number, we will contact you to prior to the trip

Guided tours are led by the Glacier Institute, official nonprofit education partner for Glacier National Park

Full refund until 72 hours before the tour. Book Now, Pay Later deposits are non-refundable in all circumstances.

Quick Facts

City

Glacier Park

Itinerary • 8h 00min • 6 activities

Check in and meet your guide in Columbia Falls before loading up and heading towards Glacier National Park.

Duration

15 minutes

Begin your journey to Going-to-the-Sun Road as you travel along the banks of the Flathead River before reaching the Western Entrance to Glacier National Park and Apgar.

Duration

15 minutes

Begin your journey along Going-to-the-Sun Road as you traverse along the eastern shore of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. Enjoy scenic stops along Upper McDonald Creek such as the impressive McDonald Falls or Sacred Dancing Cascade.

Duration

1 hour 20 minutes

Journey upward and onward along the western approach to Logan Pass known as The Garden Wall. Take in a commanding view of Heaven's Peak and enjoy the sweeping vista of McDonald Valley before crossing the Continental Divide to Logan Pass reaching an elevation of 6,646 ft.

Duration

1 hour 40 minutes

Descend eastward from Logan Pass to the towering peaks of the St. Mary Valley. Catch a glimpse of an active glacier from the Jackson Glacier Overlook and learn about the unique relationship of fire seasons in Glacier National Park as you pass burn areas of the Reynolds Creek Fire.

Duration

1 hour 20 minutes

After reaching the eastern terminus of Going-to-the-Sun Road, double back and do it all again as you make your journey home with a few quick stops along the way.

Duration

2 hours 30 minutes

Customer Reviews 56

Total score

4.91

Tour 2 of 2 (Glacier Park)

Going-to-the-Sun Road Evening UTV Side by Side Rental

4.88 (8)

4-Hour Duration

Lasts 4 Hours Start to Finish

Sunset Experience

Evening Departure For Sunset Views

Glacier National Park

Epic Views of Going-to-the-Sun Road

Family Friendly

Family-Friendly Adventure For All Ages

Description

Enjoy a stunning sunset cruise through Glacier National Park as you take in epic views along Going-to-the-Sun Road. From towering mountain peaks around Logan Pass, or a quiet stop along McDonald Creek to refresh, this adventure offers a perfect way to experience Going-to-the-Sun Road at a relaxed pace, surrounded by postcard-worthy sunset views.

Travel along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road to Lake McDonald and beyond for a truly breathtaking sunset. 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.

An evening start at 5:30 pm provides you with enough time to soak up the picturesque sunset or stop for a short evening hike. Soak up stunning moments and create lifelong memories with a unique UTV experience that offers a memorable way to explore Glacier National Park. Whether you are an avid photographer or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature's beauty, this UTV adventure is suited for all.

With the option to rent a 2-seater, 4-seater, or 6-seater UTV, each rental is equipped with helmets, an emergency GPS locator, and walkie-talkies to ensure a safe and memorable experience as you traverse the park's scenic routes. So, gear up for an evening filled with adventure, stunning vistas, and the serene beauty of a Glacier National Park sunset.

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Current Conditions

Please check the current conditions in Glacier National Park when planning your trip. 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

Full-Day UTV Rentals

What's Included

UTV Rental

Helmet & Goggles

Trail Map

GPS Locator

Walkie-Talkie

Bungee Cords (for storage)

Transportation to Meeting Point

Glacier National Park Site Pass

Fuel

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for operating or riding in a UTV?

UTV drivers must be at least 18 years of age and all drivers must possess a valid driver's license. All ages are welcome to ride as passengers. Children under the age of 12 are required to wear a helmet on the UTV.

Will we get lost in the park?

Each group will receive a walkie-talkie, map, and emergency GPS locator if necessary. We recommend you follow Going-to-the-Sun Road from the West Glacier entrance and no further than Logan Pass before turning around.

What kind of gear should we wear?

Dress in layers as temperatures may vary at any time of year. You may also want to bring a swimsuit or fishing gear to enjoy the surrounding lakes.

Do I need to sign a wavier?

Yes, all riders must sign a liability and equipment waiver. A copy will be available during the booking process. This may also be done online prior to arrival. Please bring your driver's license.

Do I need a Glacier National Park Site Pass?

Yes, this rental does not include the cost of entry into Glacier National Park. We recommend you purchase a 7-day Private Vehicle Pass online here (one per vehicle), or you can purchase a pass at the park entry gate.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is located in Hungry Horse, MT, about 10 miles from the West Glacier Entrance. You will receive detailed meeting instructions in your confirmation.

Are children allowed?

Yes, there is no minimum age requirement, and most UTVs are car-seat compatible.

What size UTVs do you have?

You have the option to rent 2-seater, 4-seater, or 6-seater UTVs

Is fuel included?

Fuel is not included. The meeting point shares a property with a gas station, where you can refuel after use.

Can we drive the UTV all the way to Logan Pass?

Yes, the UTVs are street legal and can travel on Going-to-the-Sun Road. On a 4-hour evening rental departing at 5:30 pm, most guests reach The Loop and enjoy sweeping views of the Garden Wall. Reaching Logan Pass (about 32 miles from the meeting point) is possible but requires a good pace. Your guide will review the route and recommend realistic goals based on your departure time and current road conditions.

What time does the rental start and end?

The evening rental departs at 5:30 pm and lasts approximately 4 hours, returning around 9:30 pm. This timing is designed to align with sunset and golden hour along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Plan to arrive 20 minutes early for check-in and a brief orientation.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour

All UTV's are street legal and can be brought into appropriate areas of Glacier National Park. Park entry is NOT included.

Rentals are self-guided and you are encouraged to explore on your own. Roads and maps are well marked and easy to follow.

Please be mindful of the current conditions of Going-to-the-Sun Road before traveling and that some sections of the road may be inaccessible.

Full refund until 48 hours before the tour. Book Now, Pay Later deposits are non-refundable in all circumstances.

Quick Facts

City

Glacier Park

Itinerary • 4h 00min • 4 activities

Check in at the Hungry Horse, MT office. Your guide will teach you all you need to know then begin your journey into Glacier Park.

Duration

15 minutes

You'll cruise 18 miles up the road to West Glacier. Enter the park and stop or drive along the iconic Lake McDonald.

Duration

45 minutes

Wind your way along McDonald Creek then gain elevation up to "The Loop" for epic views of Glacier. If time permits, head on up to Logan Pass.

Duration

1 hour

Enjoy the next two hours to hike, take sunset photos or stop at scenic overlooks as you make your way back to Hungry Horse, MT

Duration

2 hours

Customer Reviews 8

Total score

4.88