Description
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure through Glacier National Park with an in-depth and educational Going-to-the-Sun Road Guided Day Tour. Lasting 8 hours from Columbia Falls, you'll find yourself 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 Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and the St. Mary Valley all while in a small-group tour with a passionate and educational guide.
Begin your day in Columbia Falls near the western entrance of Glacier National Park where you'll meet your guide and make your way to the West Glacier Entrance. Along the way, you'll follow the scenic Middle Fork of the Flathead River and pass near Flathead National Forest, with equally spectacular views of the Montana wildness. Once in West Glacier, you'll make your way to the iconic Lake McDonald and nearby Apgar Village known for its spectacular view of the lake and multi-colored "rainbow" rocks.
The tour continues past Lake McDonald as you traverse higher into the mountains, with scenic overlooks and multiple pullouts, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and capture each picture-perfect moment. A true marvel of civil engineering, Going-to-the-Sun Road was completed in 1932 with the exact purpose of scenic driving and postcard-worthy overlooks in mind, so don't forget to bring your fancy camera!
Complete your ascent by reaching Logan Pass and crossing the Continental Divide. A true highlight and must-see of Glacier National Park, Logan Pass is home to a world of epic views and notoriously difficult parking. With an exclusive guided tour, you can forget the hassle of parking and spend more of your time exploring this once-in-a-lifetime destination. If you're interested in spending more time in Logan Pass, book this Guided Hike to Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park.
Stop by the Logan Pass Visitor Center and learn more about the park's history, wildlife, and local culture before hitting the road again on your way to the St. Mary Valley. Iconic views of Wild Goose Island and the glacially carved peaks will make for an impressive and memorable introduction to the Glacier National Park.
Upon reaching the eastern reach of Going-to-the-Sun Road, double back and see it all again from a new perspective as you make your way westward and back to Columbia Falls.
Looking For More?
Learn more about Going-to-the-Sun Road with our Ulitmate Guide to Everything You Need To Know About Going-to-the-Sun Road.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Going-to-the-Sun Road Vehicle Reservation?
You do NOT need a Going-to-the-Sun Road Vehicle Reservation for this tour, however, you do need a Glacier National Park Entry Pass.
Do I need a Glacier National Park Entry Pass?
Yes, every group will need a Glacier National Park Entry Pass. You can purchase your pass online at recreation.gov. We recommend purchasing a single 7-day Private Vehicle Pass (1 per group), this pass may also be used for entry with your own vehicle or car rental. America the Beautiful Passes are also accepted.
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 on any trip to Glacier National Park, but it's never guaranteed. Spotting wildlife in GNP can be less common than expected and traveling in groups generally keeps wildlife further away. Be sure to pack a good pair of binoculars and keep an eye on the mountain slopes for mountain goats and bighorn sheep!
Does this tour include Logan Pass?
Absolutely! Logan Pass is often considered the highlight of this tour and is the summit of Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Is there any hiking?
This is not a guided hike, but there is the option for a short 1.5-mile hike near the end of the tour. Interested in a guided day hike? check out this Guided Hike to Hidden Lake.
Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
Itinerary • 8h 00min • 6 activities
Arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure to check in, meet your guide, and get ready for the adventure ahead!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.