Going-to-the-Sun Road (West Glacier to St. Mary)
Glacier's death-defying alpine masterpiece
Going-to-the-Sun Road isn’t just a drive—it’s a white-knuckle engineering marvel that clings to Glacier National Park’s Continental Divide like it’s afraid of falling off. The 50-mile ribbon of asphalt snakes from West Glacier through forests and meadows before launching skyward to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet, where the road literally disappears into stone walls on both sides. You’ll hit the famous Weeping Wall where springmelt cascades directly onto your windshield, and if you’re not sweating palms at the hairpin turns above Hidden Lake, you’re not paying attention.
This isn’t technically difficult—any vehicle under 8 feet wide and 21 feet long can make it—but the exposure and narrow lanes demand respect. Best tackled June through October when snow doesn’t block the pass, though even summer brings construction delays and parking lot chaos at popular stops. No permits needed, but fuel up in West Glacier or St. Mary because there’s nothing in between. You’re here for the views that make grown overlanders pull over and stare, and wildlife encounters that’ll have you reaching for the camera instead of the gas pedal.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Paved |
| Features | High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 50 mi / 80.5 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6646 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle (size restrictions apply) |
| Nearest town | West Glacier, MT |
| Land manager | National Park Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can my full-size truck or RV make it on Going-to-the-Sun Road?
No. Vehicle restrictions are strictly enforced: 8 feet wide, 8 feet high, 21 feet long (including bumpers). Most full-size trucks and all RVs are too big.
Is Going-to-the-Sun Road open year-round?
No, it's typically closed from November through May due to heavy snow. Full road opening usually happens in June, sometimes later depending on snowpack.
Do I need reservations or permits to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?
Yes, you need a timed entry reservation for Glacier National Park from May through October, plus the standard park entrance fee. Reserve at recreation.gov well in advance.
How scary are the narrow sections and drop-offs?
The road is genuinely narrow with steep drop-offs and no guardrails in many sections. If you're afraid of heights or tight mountain roads, this will be white-knuckle driving.
Where can I get gas along the route?
There's no gas stations on Going-to-the-Sun Road itself. Fill up in West Glacier before starting, or plan to refuel in St. Mary at the end - it's 50 miles between fuel stops.