See the Park
Going-to-the-Sun Road
Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a highlight of any park visit. Because of the steep, narrow nature of the road, vehicle size restrictions are in effect on the 24-mile section between Avalanche Campground, west of Logan Pass, and Sun Point on the east side of the pass. A maximum vehicle length of 21 feet (overall length) or width of eight feet (including mirrors) is allowed on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Due to rock overhangs, vehicles over 10 feet in height may have difficulty driving west from Logan Pass. Oversized vehicles must use an alternate route. Shuttle service and oversize vehicle parking are available. Recommended parking areas are located at Sun Point and at two locations in Apgar (parking lots: across from Eddie’s Campstore and behind the public restroom near the boat dock).
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
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.
Why are you implementing a shuttle system?
The Going-to-the-Sun Road Rehabilitation includes meeting the challenge of keeping the Going-to-the Sun Road open for visitors while also supporting the road construction during the short season that the road is open. One way that we will do this is to voluntarily remove some of the traffic congestion through bus ridership.
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. |
