Going-to-the-Sun Road

The Going-to-the-Sun Road takes visitors through the heart of Glacier National Park, cresting the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. The engineering marvel and National Historic Landmark connects West Glacier and St. Mary, delivering stunning views of towering peaks, alpine valleys, wildflowers, waterfalls and wildlife.

Numerous scenic pullouts along the way offer plenty of opportunities to stop, take it all in, and photograph the scenery. One of the most scenic drives in America, it's the park's most iconic experience—and one worth planning carefully.

When to Travel

The lower elevation sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road remain open all year. The summer opening of the alpine portion varies based on snowfall and plowing operations—there's no set date, but the road is typically fully open by early July and usually remains open until the third Monday of October, weather and road conditions permitting.

How to Travel

Visitors can travel the road by private vehicle, by reservation-only park shuttle, or on an interpretive tour aboard a historic red bus with Xanterra or with Sun Tours.

Hiking Along the Way

Hiking trails are accessible at various points along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Parking is limited but you must park in a designated parking spot; you can’t just park in the road. In 2026, park shuttles will stop at The Loop (afternoons only) and Logan Pass only, no other trailheads.

Logan Pass + Visitor Center

Located near the midpoint of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass sits high along the Continental Divide and marks the highest point accessible by vehicle in Glacier National Park. This alpine hub is home to the Logan Pass Visitor Center and serves as a gateway to popular hikes, scenic overlooks and interpretive programs. Starting July 1, 2026, parking at Logan Pass is limited to three hours—enough time to visit the Visitor Center, catch an interpretive program or hike to Hidden Lake Overlook.

Visitors planning longer hikes, such as the Highline Trail to Granite Park Chalet, must use the shuttle or arrange for alternate transportation for drop off and pick up.

Shuttle Services

In 2026, park shuttles will operate as a reservation-only express service. The shuttles will stop at The Loop (afternoons only) and Logan Pass only, no other trailheads. Express shuttle routes serve Logan Pass from both sides of the road: west side departures from Apgar Transit Center and Lake McDonald Lodge, east side departures from St. Mary Visitor Center and Rising Sun.

Tickets are $1 and sold exclusively through Recreation.gov—not inside the park. Tickets are limited; book 60 days in advance or the night before. Learn more here.

The shuttle services begin on July 1, 2026.

For more information, visit the National Park Service.

Biking the Going to the Sun Road, Vehicle-Free

The Going-to-the-Sun Road also offers a unique opportunity for spring bicycling when the road is still closed to vehicles. This typically occurs from late April to early June, before the alpine section opens to cars. (In winter, the road is also popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and there is often a small window in late October after the alpine section closes to vehicles.)

Ride from Avalanche on the west side or Jackson Glacier Overlook on the east side. Weather and road work dictate what sections of the road are open for hikers and bikers, and you must pay attention to closures. Ebikes are allowed. Guided trips are available. Current road status info is here. See the Spring Biking section here for distances, elevation gain and safety info.

New in 2026

Glacier National Park will not require vehicle reservations in 2026. Read our Glacier National Park in 2026 blog post for more information on more 2026 updates, including entrance fees and more. Please also note that Two Medicine Campground will be closed in 2026 due to construction.

PLEASE TRAVEL AND RECREATE RESPONSIBLY

Plan well, monitor and adjust, stay safe, and be respectful, kind, patient and prepared.