Stretching across Montana's Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the United States' most scenic alpine highways. And for a short window each spring, it opens exclusively to cyclists. No cars, no crowds — just you, the road and the epic views emerging around every dip and bend.
One sure sign of spring’s arrival is that first carefree bike ride of the year. But in some parts of Glacier National Park, winter lingers for a little while longer. Logan Pass — the highest point of Going-to-the-Sun Road — tops out at an elevation of 6,646 feet and sees snow most of the year. The road typically isn’t fully plowed and open to vehicles until late June or early July.
Before that happens, cyclists get rare access to this iconic route. Most riders start from the west side, where the climb is scenic, steady and now more doable than ever thanks to e-bike technology.
Start your adventure in Apgar Village, where you can rent e-bikes from Flathead Outdoors. Once you’re geared up, head beyond the vehicle closure gate, which, depending on when you visit, will be at either Lake McDonald Lodge or the Avalanche Creek parking area.
You can catch the complimentary hiker-biker shuttle from the Apgar Visitor Center on weekends throughout the spring. Then, it’s about 15 miles and a 3,200-foot climb from Avalanche Creek or 21 miles and a 3,450-foot climb from Lake McDonald to Logan Pass.
The steady 6% grade can be a workout, but riders of all fitness levels can make it happen with help from an e-bike.
TIP: If you're coming from the east at Rising Sun, your ride to the top is shorter with less elevation gain — 11.5 miles with a 2,313-foot gain.
You’ll need more than just a helmet and a bike to make the most of this ride. Here’s what you’ll want to have with you before hitting the road:
While biking the full round-trip takes stamina, the ride to Logan Pass is packed with rewarding views to keep you motivated.
You'll pedal past fire-scarred trees from a 2003 wildfire and into prime wildlife territory — home to mountain goats, bighorn sheep and the occasional grizzly bear or wolverine. At the top, you’ll hit the brakes on the Continental Divide, with sweeping views of alpine meadows and glacier-carved peaks.
Biking from the east? You’ll ride through a mix of dense forest and open valleys, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife. Moose are more common down low, while goats and sheep tend to appear higher up.
TIP: Pack a picnic basket — there’s no better lunch spot than Logan Pass.
Going-to-the-Sun Road is packed with gorgeous viewpoints, but a few spots are just too good to pass by:
West Side
East Side
TIP: Keep your phone or camera charged — these are the views you’ll want to remember.
Ready to start planning for this two-wheeled adventure? Book your stay on the west side of Glacier, reserve an e-bike from Flathead Outdoors and prepare for the ride of a lifetime.
