Western Alpine Tour
The journey begins in the cedar and hemlock forests of the Lake McDonald Valley before traveling along the famed Going to the Sun Road.
Plan Around Western Alpine Tour
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Western Alpine Tour Details
Discover Glacier National Park aboard one of the iconic 1930s Red Buses, whose roll back tops provide panoramic views of towering peaks and expansive skies. Led by experienced driver guides, this time efficient tour highlights the park most dramatic landscapes while traveling in one of the oldest touring fleets still operating in the world. Each vintage bus seats 16 passengers on close bench style seating, reflecting its historic design. Operating June 20 through October 2, 2026, the Western Alpine Tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours. The journey begins in the cedar and hemlock forests of the Lake McDonald Valley before traveling along the famed Going to the Sun Road to the high alpine terrain at Logan Pass on the Continental Divide. Along the way, guests enjoy sweeping views of glaciers, waterfalls, wildflowers, and the rugged Garden Wall. Departures are available from West Side Parking, Village Inn at Apgar, and Lake McDonald Lodge, with morning and afternoon options depending on location and season. Adult and child rates vary by pickup point. Operating dates, schedules, and pricing are subject to change.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
N/A
Region
West Side Tours
Nearby Parks Around Western Alpine Tour
Compare nearby parks around Western Alpine Tour when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Western Alpine Tour
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Western Alpine Tour while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Western Crown of the Continent Tour
This 8 to 9.5 hour tour begins in the cedar and hemlock forests of the Lake McDonald Valley and travels along the Going to the Sun Road to Logan Pass, known as the Crown of the Continent.
0.0 mi away
Western Mountain Majesty Tour
The journey begins in the lush Lake McDonald Valley before climbing the famed Going to the Sun Road to Logan Pass at the Continental Divide.
0.0 mi away
Western Huckleberry Mountain Tour
This scenic journey travels along Camas Road into the less visited North Fork region, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and expansive mountain vistas.
0.0 mi away
Lake McDonald Lodge
Initially known as the Lewis Glacier Hotel, the Lake McDonald Lodge was built in 1913 and is today a National Historic Landmark.
0.1 mi away
Motel Lake McDonald
Motel Lake McDonald is 10 miles inside Glacier's west entrance on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
