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 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 in the heart of Apgar Village and the food of Lake McDonald, known for its spectacular view of the lake and multi-colored "rainbow" rocks.
The tour continues further into the park with highlights like the Lake McDonald Lodge and Upper McDonald Creek before the ascent toward Logan Pass. With numerous 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 true 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 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 Site Pass?
Yes, every group will need a Glacier National Park Site 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 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!
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.
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.
Are there restrooms?
There is no restroom on the bus, but there are frequent stops and most locations have a restroom.
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, and it is recommended to either purchase the available lunch or you are welcome to bring your own. There will be no opportunity to purchase lunch in the park.
Can I bring a backpack or small cooler?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a day bag, backpack, or small cooler for your lunch or personal items.