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Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States — Mountain
North America

Going-to-the-Sun Road

United States

In short: Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 80 km mountain road trip in United States, typically driven over 1–2 days, best in Jul–Sep. Highlights: West Entrance, Lake McDonald, Avalanche Creek.

Distance
80 km
Duration
1–2 days
Best Season
Jul–Sep
LegendaryModerateMountain

The only road that crosses the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park threads through the most dramatic mountain scenery in the American Rockies, hanging valleys, waterfalls cascading across the road, and grizzly bears roadside.

Practical notes
The road is typically open only from late June to mid-October due to snow, and vehicle size restrictions apply above Avalanche Creek. Timed entry reservations are required during peak season. Logan Pass can experience sudden severe weather even in summer, so carry layers.
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Stops along the route

West Entrance — Departure — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Departure
West Entrance
The main western gateway to Glacier National Park. Check timed entry permits and the bear activity board before heading in.
Hotels
St. Mary Lake — Arrival — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Arrival
St. Mary Lake
The road ends beside a glacier-fed turquoise lake framed by bare peaks. Wild Goose Island rises from its windswept centre.
Hotels

Things to Do

Lake McDonald — Nature — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Nature
Lake McDonald
The park's largest lake has water so clear the red and green glacially polished rocks on the bottom are visible from the shore.
Avalanche Creek — Nature — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Nature
Avalanche Creek
Trail of the Cedars leads to Avalanche Gorge, where snowmelt has carved luminous red rock walls and pools of emerald water.
The Garden Wall — Landmark — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Landmark
The Garden Wall
A dramatic arête where the road clings to the cliff face below the Continental Divide. Mountain goats pick their way along the ledges above.
Logan Pass — Nature — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Nature
Logan Pass
The 2,026m high point of the road. Bighorn sheep graze the alpine meadows and the Hidden Lake Overlook trail begins steps away.
Jackson Glacier Overlook — Nature — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Nature
Jackson Glacier Overlook
One of the few glaciers visible directly from the road. Jackson has retreated dramatically since the overlook was first built.
Trail of the Cedars — Hike — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Hike
Trail of the Cedars
A 0.9-mile loop through an old-growth forest of cedars and hemlocks, featuring views of Avalanche Creek.
Highline Trail — Hike — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Hike
Highline Trail
A scenic trail along the Garden Wall offering panoramic views of the park's rugged terrain.
Logan Pass Visitor Center — Visitor Center — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Visitor Center
Logan Pass Visitor Center
Provides exhibits and information about the park's geology, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Where to Eat

Lake McDonald Lodge Dining Room — American — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
American
Lake McDonald Lodge Dining Room
Offers classic American dishes with stunning lake views in a historic lodge setting.
Eddie's Café & Mercantile — American — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
American
Eddie's Café & Mercantile
Serves hearty breakfasts and lunches; known for its homemade pies and friendly atmosphere.
Rising Sun Pizza — Pizza — Going-to-the-Sun Road — United States
Pizza
Rising Sun Pizza
Offers a variety of pizzas and salads; perfect for a casual meal near St. Mary Lake.

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Frequently asked questions

How long is the Going-to-the-Sun Road drive?

The Going-to-the-Sun Road covers 80 km from start to finish.

How long does the Going-to-the-Sun Road take to drive?

Most travellers spend 1–2 days on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, depending on stops and pace.

When is the best time to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road?

The recommended season for the Going-to-the-Sun Road is Jul–Sep.

Where does the Going-to-the-Sun Road start and end?

The Going-to-the-Sun Road runs from West Entrance to St. Mary Lake.

What are the main stops on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?

The Going-to-the-Sun Road passes through West Entrance, Lake McDonald, Avalanche Creek.

Can I drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road in a regular car?

Yes — the Going-to-the-Sun Road is paved end-to-end and a regular car is fine in normal conditions.

Is the Going-to-the-Sun Road safe to drive?

The road is typically open only from late June to mid-October due to snow, and vehicle size restrictions apply above Avalanche Creek. Timed entry reservations are required during peak season. Logan Pass can experience sudden severe weather even in summer, so carry layers.

What scenic tier is the Going-to-the-Sun Road?

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a legendary drive — The world's most extraordinary drives — once-in-a-lifetime road trips with cinematic scenery, legendary roads, and unmatched cultural depth.