Going-to-the-Sun Road is often ranked as one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. Located in Glacier National Park, the road has become so popular that park officials instituted a vehicle permit system to control traffic. Due to the high elevation, the park’s snow removal team often doesn’t finish their work until mid to late June. But starting mid-May, park visitors can explore the plowed sections of the road on foot or bicycle.
Beginning May 10, Going-to-the-Sun Road is open to vehicle traffic to Avalanche Campground, according to a park release. The road closure gate is just beyond the campground, making this a common starting point for visitors hoping to walk or ride the road.
What you need to know to plan your visit
This year, visitors will not need a vehicle reservation to access Going-to-the-Sun Road to Avalanche Campground until June 13. At that time, reservations will be required until September 28.
Typically during this car-free season, a free hiker/biker shuttle is available to help transport visitors beyond the road closure gate at Avalanche Creek. This way, visitors can be taken directly to the trailheads without having to hike up the road. The shuttle may begin operations later in the season, according to the release.
Visitors can hike and bike Going-to-the-Sun Road past the gate closure on the weekends as far as the posted pedestrian closure. During the week, the road crew sets the closure based on where they are working and existing hazards.
Because the road is narrow with steep drop-offs and tight curves, cyclists are encouraged to take advantage of this no-vehicle season. Once the road opens to vehicles this summer, sections of the road will be closed to cyclists between Logan Pass and the south end of Lake McDonald. Uphill cycling on this section will be restricted from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and downhill from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
