Plowing
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most difficult roads in North America to snowplow in the spring.
Guide Sections
Use Plowing's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.
Plowing Details
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Basic Information
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel that offers unparalleled views of the park's rugged landscapes and pristine wilderness. However, its maintenance, particularly snowplowing in the spring, presents a monumental challenge due to the extreme weather conditions it faces. The task of clearing the road of snow is a testament to human perseverance and ingenuity in the face of nature's immense forces. Each spring, the road's snowplowing operations encounter up to 80 feet of snow at Logan Pass and even greater depths at the Big Drift, just east of the pass. This area is notorious for its substantial snow accumulation, making the road one of the most difficult in North America to clear. The operation requires about 10 weeks to complete, despite using powerful equipment capable of moving 4,000 tons of snow per hour. The slow progress, sometimes as little as 500 feet of road cleared per day, underscores the formidable nature of this task. The challenges are further compounded on the east side of the Continental Divide, where heavy snowfall and late-winter avalanches have rendered the installation of guardrails impractical. These avalanches have consistently destroyed any barriers put in place, leaving portions of the road with minimal protective measures and highlighting the raw power of the natural elements at play. The road's opening dates vary annually, typically ranging from early June to mid-October, with the latest opening recorded on July 13, 2011. This variability is a clear indicator of the unpredictable nature of the park's climate and the impact it has on accessibility. For visitors planning a trip to Glacier National Park and looking to traverse the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, staying informed about the current plowing status and road conditions is crucial. The National Park Service provides updates on the road's status, accessible through their website. This resource is invaluable for planning visits, ensuring that travelers can experience this breathtaking journey safely and at the optimal time.
