The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a bucket-list worthy byway through the heart of Glacier National Park. Spanning 50 miles and crossing the Continental Divide, this iconic road leaves visitors speechless with views of impressive glaciers, stunning valleys and cascading waterfalls. Here’s everything you need to know about making vehicle reservations for this can’t-miss drive.
The National Park Service’s pilot program aims to address impacts to park resources and guest experiences. Dividing daily entry hours into two-hour blocks spreads visitation more evenly and provides increased safety and predictability for visitors. This system, adjusted yearly, was implemented to manage increasing traffic at this scenic road trip destination.
From June 13 through September 28, 2025, all vehicles traveling west-to-east (entering through West Glacier or North Fork) on Going-to-the-Sun Road between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. must obtain a timed entry vehicle registration.
Exceptions: This only includes vehicles going beyond the Apgar checkpoint, not those visiting Apgar Village. Cyclists and visitors who have Glacier National Park lodging, camping or commercial activity reservations do not require a vehicle reservation for the day(s) of their booking(s). Vehicles entering from St. Mary and Two Medicine do not require a timed entry vehicle reservation.
Reservations are available at Recreation.gov 120 days in advance. More of a spontaneous traveler? Starting June 12, 2025, you can also reserve on a “next day” basis at 7 p.m. for each following day.
Tip: Set an early alarm or get going later, because visitors who enter before 7 a.m. or after 3 p.m. do not require a timed entry vehicle reservation. Plus, the sunrises and sunsets at the Logan Pass Visitor Center are unbeatable!
YES! Entry into Glacier National Park requires a Park Pass or an Entrance Pass. These are available for purchase at park entrance checkpoints or online at the National Park Service website.
Exceptions: If you already have an Annual, Senior, Access, Military or other America the Beautiful Pass, you do not need to purchase an additional entry pass.
You can expect to be wowed. This iconic road tops countless “Most Scenic Drive” lists for Montana, the U.S.A. and the world. You’ll soon discover why.
Construction of Going-to-the-Sun Road was completed in 1932 and connects the west and east sides of the park with the pinnacle at Logan Pass (6,646-foot elevation). Traveling along this historic and engineering wonder, you’ll encounter stunning views and plenty of scenic pullouts — perfect for stretching your legs and snapping pro-level photos. And depending on the time of year, visitors often encounter impressive wildflower blooms and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings, too.
Vehicle registration tickets are $2. They are non-refundable.
Driving the full 50-mile length of Going-to-the-Sun Road takes approximately two hours. This can vary based on traffic congestion, wildlife crossings, weather and construction.
The road is open year-round in the lower section, from West Glacier to Lake McDonald. The alpine sections are closed for the colder months — typically mid-October to mid-June depending on snowfall, avalanches and plowing operations. Stay up to date with current road conditions here.
There are several trailheads and pullouts along the drive, so stop if time (and parking availability) allows. Lake McDonald has several scenic stops, and Avalanche Campground is right up the road with access to the Trail of the Cedars — one of Glacier’s most popular hiking trails.
Other notable stops include The Loop, Bird Woman Falls, Big Bend, Logan Pass Visitor Center, Jackson Glacier Overlook, St. Mary and Virginia Falls.
Be Aware: There are no services on the 33-mile stretch between Lake McDonald and the Rising Sun Motor Inn. Make sure you have a full tank of gas, a fully charged phone, snacks packed and plenty of water aboard.
Vehicles longer than 21 feet (including bumpers) or wider than eight feet (including mirrors) are prohibited between Avalanche Campground and the Rising Sun picnic area.
Glacier National Park weather is highly variable, with temperatures at Logan Pass often dipping at least 10 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the Going-to-the-Sun Road’s entry points. No matter the season, it’s wise to dress in layers with a hat for the sun and something waterproof for the year-round chance of rain or snow.
People who get queasy often choose the east-to-west route (which does not require a vehicle registration). Driving this route allows cars to hug the inside rock wall rather than the outside of the road’s edge. Both directions are safe, secure and equipped with proper barriers.
Yes, there are both free transportation shuttles and guided shuttle tour options on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Glacier’s fare-free shuttle service is available on a first-come, first-served basis. And Sun Tours and Red Bus Tours are two great options for visitors who prefer to ride rather than drive.
Yes! Biking in Glacier National Park is a bucket-list thrill, especially in spring. However, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is open to motor vehicles, bicycles are prohibited on certain sections between 3 and 6 p.m. Please familiarize yourself with the park’s Bicycling Guidelines.
Note: Only those experienced at riding with heavy vehicle traffic in two directions should consider biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road during the peak summer season.
You can download and enjoy this free audio tour to hear a historical perspective while taking in the scenic views.
There are several other scenic routes in and around Glacier National Park — all incredibly picturesque. Find routes, milage charts and tips here.
We have more tips and information for you! And be sure to check out the National Park Service’s comprehensive guide explaining Glacier's 2025 Vehicle Reservations.
Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers the best views of Glacier National Park from the comfort of your vehicle. Plan ahead and enjoy the ride.
About the Author
Sarah Ericson is a writer based in northwest Montana, where you’ll often find her walking, biking or skiing in the woods, floating down rivers or sitting in her garden. She is an associate editor for Whitefish Review and she’s always looking for new places to explore — both on the page and in real life.
