Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road is considered an engineering marvel, a 50-mile road carved through the mountains of Glacier National Park. The winding road runs from one side of the park to the other, cresting the Continental Divide at Logan Pass at 6,647 feet. Many of the park's most famous sites and beloved hikes are located along this road. While the park is open year-round, Going-to-the-Sun Road is plowed every spring before opening in early summer. In 1910 only a few miles of rough wagon roads existed in Glacier National Park. Congress agreed to fund the "Transmountain Highway," in the early 1920s. Construction was slow and dangerous: three men died during the road construction. One tractor slipped off the road in 1931, rolled down the mountainside, then miraculously climbed back up the 200 feet it fell with only minor damage. In late fall of 1932, the first car traveled the entire 51 miles of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The road is still considered the park's main attraction, affording incredible views the entire way. Cyclist also tackle the narrow road, so be alert when driving. People can drive themselves, navigating the hairpin turns, but free shuttles allow you to sit back and take in the views without the stress of finding parking at popular pullouts. Red Bus Tours add guides who help you learn about the park's history and geological features.