Scenic Drive: 25 Must-Do Stops on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park

Experience Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive with 25 must-see stops including stunning viewpoints, serene hikes, and abundant wildlife.

Last updated: May 2024

  • Entry fee is $35 for a 7-day pass; $80 for an annual pass. Reservation fee is $2

Description

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a 51-mile scenic drive hailed as the "Crown of the Continent." This iconic road offers breathtaking views, incredible hikes, and opportunities to spot wildlife like mountain goats and grizzly bears. Starting from West Glacier Village and ending at St. Mary, this journey includes must-visit spots such as Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and St. Mary Falls. Whether you're taking a leisurely drive or embarking on a hiking adventure, this guide covers the best stops to make the most of your visit to Glacier National Park. Reservations are required between May 24 and September 8, 2024, to access Going-to-the-Sun Road.

What's included

  • Scenic viewpoints
  • Hiking trails
  • Visitor centers
  • Waterfalls
  • Wildlife viewing spots

Perfect for

For solo
For two
For groups
For families with kids
For parents and grownups
Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

  1. Start at West Glacier Village for gas and snacks.
  2. Enter Glacier National Park and stop at Apgar Village & Visitor Center.
  3. Drive along Lake McDonald and stop at viewpoints.
  4. Visit Lake McDonald Lodge and explore the historic building.
  5. Hike to McDonald Falls and Sacred Dancing Cascades.
  6. Continue to Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake Trail.
  7. Pass through the West Tunnel and stop at The Loop for views.
  8. See Bird Woman Falls and Haystack Falls.
  9. Drive by the Weeping Wall and stop at Big Bend for panoramic views.
  10. View the Triple Arches and stop at Oberlin Bend Overlook.
  11. Explore Logan Pass Visitor Center and hike the Highline Trail or Hidden Lake Trail.
  12. Stop at Lunch Creek for a picnic.
  13. Drive through the East Tunnel and stop at Siyeh Bend.
  14. Visit Jackson Glacier Overlook for glacier views.
  15. Hike to St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls.
  16. Explore Sunrift Gorge and Sun Point Nature Trail.
  17. Stop at Wild Goose Island Overlook for stunning lake views.
  18. End at St. Mary Visitor Center and take the shuttle if needed.

Location

Glacier National Park, Montana

Show directions

Packing List

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Snacks
  • Layers of clothing for varying temperatures

FAQs

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