Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Admission
- $35 per vehicle (Glacier National Park entry fee); seasonal reservation also required during peak hours
- Hours
- Open seasonally, typically from late June or early July to mid-October; accessible 24/7 while open
- Duration
- 3-4 hours
- Parking
- Parking lots available at visitor centers, Logan Pass, and major trailheads, though spaces fill up quickly; numerous scenic pullouts along the road
- Access
- Accessible restrooms and pathways at Apgar, Logan Pass, and St. Mary visitor centers; several paved roadside overlooks
Spanning 50 miles across Glacier National Park's rugged interior, this engineering marvel offers breathtaking views of glacial valleys and cascading waterfalls. It is one of North America's most spectacular alpine drives, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Remarkably, it is the only road that traverses the entire park.
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Spanning 50 miles across the width of Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel completed in 1932. This National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, offering visitors unparalleled access to the park's rugged interior.
Travelers will wind past sheer cliffside drop-offs, glacial lakes, and dense cedar forests as they ascend to an elevation of 6,646 feet. Along the route, iconic stopping points like the Weeping Wall and Heaven's Peak provide spectacular vantage points for photographing the alpine landscape.
The road was specifically designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, utilizing native stone for its guard walls and bridges. It remains one of the most visually stunning mountain drives in North America, showcasing the dramatic power of ancient glaciers.
Ratings
landmarkVisitor Tips
- ◆ Secure a vehicle reservation in advance, as access is restricted during peak summer months to manage traffic flow.
- ◆ Start your drive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid heavy congestion and secure parking at Logan Pass.
- ◆ Utilize the park's free shuttle service if you prefer to enjoy the panoramic views without the stress of navigating the narrow road.
- ◆ Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures at the summit of Logan Pass can be significantly cooler than at the park entrances.
Heads Up
- ◆ Vehicles over 21 feet long, 8 feet wide, or 10 feet high are strictly prohibited on the narrow stretch between Avalanche Campground and Rising Sun.
- ◆ The road is typically only fully open from late June or early July until mid-October due to extreme winter weather and heavy snowpack.
- ◆ Drivers must remain highly focused, as the route features sheer drop-offs, minimal guardrails, and frequent wildlife crossings.
Common questions
Do you need a vehicle reservation to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Yes, a vehicle reservation is required to access the road during peak hours in the summer, in addition to a standard national park entrance pass. The exact reservation periods and access points change annually, so visitors must check the Glacier National Park website for current regulations.
What is the maximum vehicle length allowed on Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Vehicles and vehicle-trailer combinations cannot exceed 21 feet in length, 8 feet in width, or 10 feet in height on the section between Avalanche Campground and Rising Sun. These size restrictions are strictly enforced due to extremely narrow lanes and low rock overhangs.
When does Going-to-the-Sun Road fully open for the season?
The entire road typically opens in late June or early July, depending on snowpack and the progress of the plowing crews. It usually remains fully open until the third Monday in October, though weather conditions can cause temporary or permanent closures earlier.
Can you ride bicycles on Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Yes, bicycling is permitted, but there are strict time restrictions on the narrowest sections during the peak summer season. From mid-June through Labor Day, bikes are prohibited on the road between Logan Creek and Logan Pass from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.