Description
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure through Glacier National Park with an in-depth and educational Going-to-the-Sun Road Guided Day Tour. Enjoy impressive views of evergreen forests, blooming alpine wildflowers, towering mountain peaks, and crystal-clear lakes, all in a single day along this epic 50-mile stretch from West Glacier to St. Mary.
Begin your day in Columbia Falls near the western entrance of Glacier National Park as you drive along the scenic Flathead River. Continue through the West Glacier entrance and onto Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. Follow the shoreline to the Lake McDonald Lodge and beyond as you begin to gain elevation and climb the Garden Wall to Logan Pass, passing Heaven's Peak, Birdwoman Falls, and the Weeping Wall.
With numerous scenic overlooks and pullouts, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and capture each picture-perfect moment. This epic marvel of engineering was completed in 1932 with the purpose of scenic driving and postcard-worthy overlooks in mind, so don't forget to bring your fancy camera!
Complete your ascent by crossing the Continental Dive and reaching Logan Pass at 6,600 ft above sea level. A true highlight and must-see of Glacier National Park, Logan Pass is home to a world of exploration, epic views, and notoriously difficult parking. Forget the hassle of parking lots and spend more of your time exploring this once-in-a-lifetime destination.
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 St. Mary. Traverse your way through the East Tunnel and past the Jackson Glacier Overlook as the spectacular St. Mary Lake comes into full view.
Upon reaching the eastern entrance of Going-to-the-Sun Road in St. Mary, double back and see it all again from a new perspective as you make your way westward and back home.
Learn more about Going-to-the-Sun Road with our Ulitmate Guide to Everything You Need To Know About Going-to-the-Sun Road
Interested in Guided Day Hikes?
Check out these popular and family-friendly day hikes in Glacier National Park
- Hidden Lake - 3 miles; 540 ft. elevation gain
- Avalanche Lake - 5 miles; 750 ft. elevation gain
- The Highline - 8 miles; 825 ft. elevation gain
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?
If you do not carry an annual or lifetime pass you can purchase a Glacier National Park pass online at recreation.gov. We recommend purchasing a 7-day Private Vehicle Pass (1 per group) which can also be used for entry with your own vehicle or car rental.
Will we see all of Going-to-the-Sun Road?
During your full-day tour, you will traverse the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Begining from Columbia Falls, MT your tour will take you out and back through the West Glacier Entrance.
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!
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.
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.