Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road, arguably the most beautiful drive in the country, connects Lake McDonald on the west side of Glacier with St. Mary Lake on the east. Turnoffs provide views of the high country and glacier-carved valleys. The sights below are listed in order from west to east.

The Garden Wall. An abrupt and jagged wall of rock juts above the road and is visible for about 10 mi as it follows Logan Creek from just past Avalanche Creek Campground to Logan Pass. 24-34 mi from West Glacier.

Logan Pass. At 6,660 feet this is the highest point in the park accessible by motor vehicle. It presents unparalleled views of both sides of the Continental Divide and is frequented by mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears. It is extremely crowded in July and August. 34 mi from West Glacier, 18 mi from St. Mary.

Hidden Lake Overlook. Take a walk from Logan Pass up to see the crystalline Hidden Lake, which often still has ice clinging to it in early July. It's a 1½-mi hike on an uphill grade, partially on a boardwalk that protects the abundant wildflowers. 1½ mi from Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Rd.

Jackson Glacier Overlook. On the east side of the Continental Divide, you come into view of Jackson Glacier looming in a rocky pass across the upper St. Mary River valley. If it isn't covered with snow, you'll see sharp peaks of ice. The glacier is shrinking and may disappear in another 100 years. 5 mi east of Logan Pass.

St. Mary Lake. When the breezes calm, the lake mirrors the snowcapped granite peaks that line the St. Mary Valley. The Sun Point Nature Trail follows the lake's shore 1 mi each way. You can buy an interpretive brochure for 50 at the trailhead on the north side of the lake, then drop it off at the box at the trail's end to be recycled. 1 mi west of St. Mary.

The drive is susceptible to frequent delays in summer. To avoid traffic jams and parking problems, take the road early in the morning or late in the evening (when the lighting is ideal for photography and wildlife is most likely to appear). Vehicle size is restricted to under 21 feet long, 10 feet high, and 8 feet wide, including mirrors, between Avalanche Creek Campground and Sun Point. From late October to late May or June, deep snows close most of Going-to-the-Sun Road.

If you don't want to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, consider making the ride in a Jammer, an antique red bus operated by Glacier Park, Inc. (406/892-2525. www.glacierparkinc.com). The drivers double as guides, and they can roll back the tops of the vehicles to give you improved views. Reservations are required.