 F.A.Q
How long is the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Approximately 50 miles from the borders at the east and west entrances, though the National Historic Landmark Nomination lists 48.7 miles from the "T Intersection" (just beyond the west entrance) to Divide Creek in St. Mary.
How long does it take to drive the entire length of the Going-to-the Sun Road?
This depends on how often you stop to visit the points of interests along the way, as well as construction and wildlife delays. Without stopping, it usually takes approximately 2 hours.
How far is it to Logan Pass?
Logan Pass is 32 miles from the west entrance and 18 miles from the east entrance.
When does the parking lot at Logan Pass fill?
The parking lot at Logan Pass usually fills between the hours of 10:00am to 2:00pm, though his can vary during peak weekends.
When does the Going-to-the-Sun Road open and close?
While portions of this scenic route remain open year-round, the higher sections generally open in late May or June, and close sometime in late October due to weather.
How did the Going-to-the-Sun Road get its name?
The road officially received its name, “The Going-to-the-Sun Road,” during the 1933 dedication at Logan Pass. The road borrowed its name from nearby Going-to-the-Sun Mountain. Local legend, and a 1933 press release issued by the Department of the Interior, told the story of the deity, Sour Spirit, who came down from the sun to teach Blackfeet braves the rudiments of the hunt. On his way back to the sun, Sour Spirit had his image reproduced on the top of the mountain for inspiration to the Blackfeet. An alternate story suggests a white explorer in the 1880s concocted the name and the legend. No matter which version is accurate, the road named Going-to-the-Sun still inspires all who travel it.
Are there vehicle size restrictions on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Yes. To help reduce congestion, vehicle size restrictions are in effect. Vehicles, and vehicle combinations, longer than 21 feet(including bumpers) or wider than 8 feet(including mirrors), are prohibited between Avalanche Campground and the Sun Point parking area. Vehicle and vehicle combinations over 10 feet in height may have difficulty driving west from Logan Pass to the Loop, due to rock overhangs. Stock trucks and trailers are able to access Packers Roost on the west, and Siyeh Bend on the east.
Can I ride my bicycle on the Going-to-the Sun Road?
Yes, but there are some exceptions. From June 15 through Labor Day, the following sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road are closed to bicycle use between 11a.m. and 4 p.m.:
- From Apgar turnoff (at the south end of Lake McDonald) to Sprague Creek Campground
- Eastbound from Logan Creek to Logan Pass.
What construction delays will I experience?
Delays will be limited to 30 minutes total for a one-way trip across the road. In late September and early October delays up to two hours are possible. Future traffic management patterns may be different.
How scary and creepy is it to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
The Going-to-the Sun Road takes you through some of the most spectacular scenery in the park. Because portions of the road hug the mountainside, there are a few tight curves, but thousands of vehicles have safely made the journey from one side of the park to the other. Heading east toward Logan Pass and St. Mary from the West Entrance, passengers on the passenger side of the vehicle will be able to look over the edge of the road in a few spots. Follow the speed limit, drive carefully, and enjoy the majesty this road has to offer.
There are also alternative travel options for the faint of heart.
Can I see a glacier from the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Yes. Jackson Glacier Overlook affords the best opportunity to see a glacier from the road. Jackson Glacier Overlook is located on the east side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road between Logan Pass and St. Mary.
How much does it cost to drive the Going-to-the Sun Road?
Your Entrance Fee into the park allows you to experience the Going-to-the Sun Road and many other spectacular resources.
Entrance Fees:
$25 – One vehicle for seven days.
$30 – Annual pass for one vehicle.
$10 –Golden Age Passport one time fee good at all National Parks (must be 62 or over)
$50 – National Park Passport, good at all National Parks for one year for one vehicle.
$0 – Golden Access Passport, available to US Citizens with lifetime disabilities.
Are there campgrounds located along the Going-to-the Sun Road?
Yes, 5 out of 13 campgrounds in Glacier are located along the road; Apgar, Sprague Creek, Avalanche, Rising Sun, and St. Mary. Please see our Camping section for more information.
Are services like gas, lodging, food, and picnic areas available on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Gas is not available anywhere in the park or on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Food and lodging can be found along the road at Rising Sun, Lake McDonald Lodge, and Apgar Village. Picnic areas may be found at Rising Sun, Sun point, Avalanche, Sprague Creek, and Apgar.
What is the speed limit on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
For safety reasons, 40 miles per hour is the speed limit in the lower elevations of the road, and 25 miles per hour in the alpine section.
What is the maximum elevation on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Logan Pass is the highest point on the Going-to-the Sun Road at 6,646 feet.
Where can I see wildlife along the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Glacier National Park is wild country, and wildlife may be present anywhere along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, however, Mountain Goats and Bighorn Sheep are typically seen near Logan Pass.
What kind of weather can I expect while driving?
Please see our Weather section for more information about our fickle weather. Drivers should always drive with caution during changing, inclement weather.
How can I see the rest of the Going-to-the-Sun Road if I can't drive my vehicle?
There are alternative options for traveling across the Going-to-the-Sun Road including tour buses and shuttles.
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