Exploring the Majestic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, a scenic drive featuring stunning landscapes and rich wildlife.
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtaking scenic drive in Glacier National Park, Montana. This iconic route offers stunning views of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife, making it a must-see for tourists. The road showcases the natural beauty of the park, with numerous pull-outs and trails that allow for exploration and photography. Travelers can experience the changing landscapes throughout the drive, from lush forests to alpine tundra, all while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Whether you're driving, hiking, or simply soaking in the views, Going-to-the-Sun Road is an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Going-to-the-Sun Rd
- Montana, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Check road conditions before visiting, as closures due to snow are common in spring and fall.
- Take advantage of the many scenic pull-outs for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider hiking one of the trails along the road for a more immersive experience in nature.
Getting There
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Shuttle Bus
To reach Going-to-the-Sun Road, find the Glacier National Park shuttle bus service, which operates from various points within the park. If you are near the Apgar Visitor Center, board the shuttle there. The shuttle will take you along the scenic route, and you can get off at any of the designated stops along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Make sure to check the shuttle schedule beforehand, as it operates seasonally and can be affected by weather conditions.
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Hiking
If you are near the Avalanche Lake trailhead, you can hike to access Going-to-the-Sun Road. Start at the Avalanche Lake Trailhead, which is well-marked. Hike approximately 2 miles along the trail until you reach the stunning Avalanche Lake. From there, follow the trail that leads you back to the road. This hike offers beautiful views and allows you to experience the natural beauty of the park up close. Remember to carry plenty of water and snacks, and check the weather conditions before heading out.
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Bicycle Rental
Rent a bicycle at one of the rental stations within Glacier National Park, such as at the Apgar Visitor Center. From there, you can ride on the designated bike paths that run parallel to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Be cautious of traffic and ensure you wear a helmet. The ride offers breathtaking views, and you can stop at various points of interest along the way. Plan your route according to your fitness level and the amount of time you have available.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour that departs from the Apgar Visitor Center or Logan Pass. These tours often provide transportation and knowledgeable guides who can share insights about the park's history, geology, and wildlife. Check the visitor center for available tours and their schedules. This is a great way to experience Going-to-the-Sun Road without the hassle of navigating on your own.
Discover more about Going-to-the-Sun Rd
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Going-To-The-Sun Mountain
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Going-To-The-Sun Mountain in Montana, a majestic peak offering stunning views and adventurous hiking trails.
Sexton Glacier
2.9 km
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Sexton Glacier in Montana, a stunning natural wonder perfect for outdoor adventures and photography.
Piegan Glacier
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Piegan Glacier in Glacier National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers in Montana.
Baring Falls
4.5 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Baring Falls, a stunning waterfall in Glacier National Park, Montana, where nature's tranquility meets breathtaking vistas.
Logan Pass Visitor Center
5.0 km
Explore Glacier National Park's Logan Pass Visitor Center - your gateway to breathtaking views, educational exhibits, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Hidden Lake Trailhead
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Hidden Lake Trailhead in Glacier National Park, a scenic hiking area featuring stunning views and diverse wildlife for nature lovers.
Mt Gould
8.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Gould, a peak that offers incredible hiking trails and stunning views in the heart of Montana's Rocky Mountains.
Gem Glacier
9.3 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Gem Glacier, a breathtaking natural wonder in Montana's Glacier National Park, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Logan Creek Patrol Cabin
9.4 km
Explore the historic Logan Creek Patrol Cabin in West Glacier, MT, a charming relic of the past surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Grinnell Glacier
9.8 km
Explore Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park; a breathtaking ice formation set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Grinnell Lake
10.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grinnell Lake in Glacier National Park, a tranquil gem surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests.
Grinnell Falls
10.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grinnell Falls, a stunning waterfall in Montana that offers scenic views and outdoor adventures.
The Salamander Glacier
10.6 km
Explore the enchanting Salamander Glacier in Montana, where breathtaking ice formations and stunning landscapes await adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
The Garden Wall
10.8 km
Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of The Garden Wall, a majestic mountain peak in Montana, perfect for hiking, photography, and reconnecting with nature.
Mt Grinnell
12.1 km
Explore the stunning vistas and exhilarating trails of Mt Grinnell in Glacier National Park, Montana's natural wonder.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jackson Glacier Overlook
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Jackson Glacier Overlook, a stunning vista point in Glacier National Park showcasing majestic glaciers and rugged mountain scenery.
Saint Mary Falls
3.1 km
Explore Saint Mary Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in Glacier National Park, offering stunning views and a serene hiking experience in Montana.
Logan Pass
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Logan Pass, a stunning mountain pass in Montana's Glacier National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Sun Point Nature Trail
5.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sun Point Nature Trail in Browning, Montana, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Triple Arches
6.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Triple Arches bridge in Glacier National Park, Montana, where stunning views await every visitor.
Paradise Meadow
7.4 km
Experience the natural beauty of Paradise Meadow in Glacier National Park, a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Bird Woman Falls
7.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Bird Woman Falls in Glacier National Park, Montana - a stunning waterfall surrounded by nature's beauty.
Wild Goose Island Lookout
9.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wild Goose Island Lookout in Glacier National Park, a must-visit scenic spot for every nature lover and photographer.
Bird Woman Falls Overlook
9.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Bird Woman Falls Overlook in West Glacier, Montana, a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Grinnell Glacier Overlook
11.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Grinnell Glacier Overlook in Glacier National Park, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Avalanche Lake Trailhead
11.7 km
Experience the natural wonders of Avalanche Lake Trailhead in Glacier National Park, a must-visit hiking destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead
12.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Trail of the Cedars Nature Trailhead in Glacier National Park, where ancient trees and breathtaking views await.
Grinnell Glacier Trailhead
13.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grinnell Glacier Trailhead, a stunning hiking area in Glacier National Park, Montana, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Glacier National Park
13.2 km
Discover Glacier National Park in Montana, a breathtaking destination with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.
Granite Park Chalet
13.4 km
Discover the historic charm of Granite Park Chalet in Glacier National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await.
Essential places to dine
Avalanche Campground
12.0 km
Experience the serenity and adventure at Avalanche Campground in West Glacier, Montana – your gateway to nature's wonders.
Ptarmigan Dining Hall
13.1 km
Discover the essence of American cuisine with stunning views at Ptarmigan Dining Hall in Montana's beautiful landscapes.
Many Glacier Hotel
13.1 km
Discover timeless beauty and adventure at Many Glacier Hotel nestled in Glacier National Park - a perfect blend of history and nature.
Swiss Lounge
13.2 km
Experience relaxation at Swiss Lounge in Glacier National Park with stunning views, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nell's
13.3 km
Discover authentic American cuisine at Nell's in Browning, MT – where hearty meals meet warm hospitality amidst stunning Montana landscapes.
Swiftcurrent Motor Inn
13.3 km
Discover the serene comfort of Swiftcurrent Motor Inn nestled in Glacier National Park – your gateway to adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Lake McDonald Lodge
17.8 km
Experience the rustic elegance and natural beauty at Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park – a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Russell's Fireside Dining Room
17.9 km
Experience exquisite dining amidst breathtaking views at Russell's Fireside Dining Room in West Glacier.
Kip's Beer Garden
18.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Montana at Kip's Beer Garden – where great food meets an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Cottages At Glacier
18.3 km
Discover tranquility at The Cottages At Glacier - your perfect mountain retreat surrounded by nature's beauty.
Fish Creek Campground
28.3 km
Discover the beauty of Montana at Fish Creek Campground - your gateway to outdoor adventure in Glacier National Park.
Glacier Wilderness Resort
28.4 km
Discover tranquility at Glacier Wilderness Resort with stunning log cabins amidst breathtaking scenery near Glacier National Park.
Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins
30.1 km
Experience tranquility at Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins - your gateway to Glacier National Park's breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Belton Grill Dining Room & Tap Room
31.2 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Belton Grill Dining Room & Tap Room near Glacier National Park, where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.
Belton Chalet
31.2 km
Discover Belton Chalet: A historic gem blending rustic charm with modern comforts near Glacier National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heidi’s Snack Shop & Espresso Stand
13.1 km
Discover Heidi's Snack Shop & Espresso Stand in Browning, MT, a cozy café offering delicious coffee, snacks, and a taste of local hospitality.
Glacier Perk Café
18.0 km
Discover Glacier Perk Café, a delightful coffee shop in St. Mary, Montana, perfect for travelers exploring Glacier National Park.
Thronson's General Store
25.7 km
Discover the charm of Thronson's General Store in Montana, where local treasures and rustic spirit await every traveler.
The Cedar Tree
30.0 km
Discover unique Montana souvenirs at The Cedar Tree Gift Shop in Glacier National Park, where nature meets local craftsmanship.
Eddies Cafe & Gifts
30.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine and unique gifts at Eddie's Cafe & Gifts, your gateway to Glacier National Park.
School House Gifts
30.1 km
Explore School House Gifts in West Glacier, MT for unique locally crafted treasures that capture the spirit of Montana's beauty and culture.
Glacier Highland
31.3 km
Experience the unique blend of comfort, charm, and adventure at Glacier Highland, your gateway to the stunning landscapes of Montana.
Glacier National Park Conservancy Store
31.4 km
Discover Glacier National Park through books and local art at the Glacier National Park Conservancy Store, a unique shopping experience in West Glacier, Montana.
West Glacier Camp Store
31.5 km
Discover the West Glacier Camp Store – your base for adventure in Glacier National Park, offering gear, souvenirs, and local expertise.
West Glacier Gifts
31.6 km
Discover a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at West Glacier Gifts, your go-to shop near Glacier National Park.
West Glacier Mercantile
31.6 km
Explore the wonders of Glacier National Park with a visit to West Glacier Mercantile, your one-stop-shop for local foods and outdoor essentials.
Glacier Anglers & Outfitters
32.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Montana with Glacier Anglers & Outfitters, specializing in fishing, rafting, and kayaking adventures.
Paddle Ridge
32.5 km
Unwind at Paddle Ridge, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of West Glacier, Montana's stunning wilderness.
The Spiral Spoon
40.7 km
Explore The Spiral Spoon in East Glacier Park for unique handcrafted gifts and artisanal cutlery that celebrate Montana's rich heritage.
Bear Track Travel Center
41.4 km
Discover the Bear Track Travel Center - your essential stop for supplies and local tips while exploring Glacier National Park!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stonefly Lounge
40.7 km
Discover Stonefly Lounge: A lively lounge in Coram, Montana, offering delicious small plates, live music, and a friendly ambiance for a perfect evening.
Serranos Mexican Restaurant
41.6 km
Explore authentic Mexican flavors at Serranos Mexican Restaurant, a culinary jewel in East Glacier Park, Montana, serving delicious dishes and vibrant drinks.
Wolf Creek Casino
51.5 km
Discover the thrill of gaming and delightful dining at Wolf Creek Casino, the top entertainment destination in Columbia Falls, Montana.
Ferks Casino
52.0 km
Experience the thrill of gaming at Ferks Casino in Columbia Falls, Montana - where excitement and hospitality come together!
Kelly's Pub & Casino
53.0 km
Discover the excitement of gaming and local cuisine at Kelly's Pub & Casino, a must-visit destination in Columbia Falls, Montana.
F.O.E North Valley Eagles #4081
53.0 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at F.O.E North Valley Eagles #4081 in Columbia Falls, where camaraderie and local traditions come together.
Blue Moon Nite Club
55.0 km
Discover the lively Blue Moon Nite Club, a vibrant bar and night club in Columbia Falls, Montana, perfect for a night of fun and entertainment.
The Bierstube
56.0 km
Experience the charm of The Bierstube, a cozy bar in Whitefish known for its craft beers and stunning mountain views, perfect for relaxation after outdoor adventures.
Spotted Bear Spirits
58.3 km
Discover the art of distilling at Spotted Bear Spirits in Whitefish, MT, where handcrafted cocktails and local flavors come together in a cozy setting.
Palace Bar
58.3 km
Palace Bar in Whitefish, MT - A cozy retreat for tourists with affordable drinks, local charm, and a vibrant atmosphere to unwind and connect.
Latitude 48 Bistro
58.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Montana at Latitude 48 Bistro, where local ingredients meet gourmet cuisine in a cozy setting.
Piggyback Barbeque
58.4 km
Experience the best of barbecue dining at Piggyback Barbeque in Whitefish, Montana, where flavor meets family-friendly fun.
Bulldog Saloon
58.4 km
Enjoy delicious wings and a lively sports bar atmosphere at Bulldog Saloon in Whitefish, Montana - the perfect spot for food and fun.
The Remington Bar
58.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Remington Bar in Whitefish, Montana, with live music, craft cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Buffalo Cafe
58.4 km
Experience the best of family-friendly dining at Buffalo Cafe in Whitefish, Montana, offering delicious meals from breakfast burritos to gourmet burgers.
