Description
Explore Glacier National Park with an expert education guide from the Glacier Institute, the park's official nonprofit education partner. This full-day 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 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 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. 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.
Known for its dramatic mountains, challenging hikes with outstanding views like Siyeh Pass, and the stunning St. Mary Lake, the tour will reach the eastern portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road before turning around and beginning the journey back. 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.
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.
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
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. Glacier National Park requires vehicle reservations to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season, but licensed tour operators are exempt from this requirement. Your tour includes transportation in a comfortable van, so you can enjoy the views without any reservation hassle.