Going-to-the-Sun Road Tickets + The Ultimate Guide to Glacier National Park (updated for 2023)
In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide for getting Going-to-the-Sun Road tickets and the ultimate planning resource for a trip to Glacier National Park.
Glacier National Park stands as a testament to the raw beauty and unspoiled wilderness of Montana. Teal lakes. Snow-capped mountains. Giant glaciers. Tree-swathed valleys. Going-to-the-Sun Road. Glacier National Park is a nature lovers’ heaven, a true paradise on Earth. It’s one of the United States’ first National Parks and, in my opinion, one of its best. A visit to Glacier National Park wouldn’t be complete, however, without a drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is why I created this comprehensive guide to Glacier and its centerpiece drive.
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a scenic highway that winds through the heart of Glacier National Park. This iconic part of the park’s identity stretched for approximately 50 miles, and is considered an engineering marvel. As you navigate the twists and turns of this legendary road, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views of the park's dramatic landscapes. Keep your camera ready as you pass iconic spots like Logan Pass, where wildlife sightings and wildflower displays are common. The road's unique design allows for a seamless blend with the natural surroundings, enhancing the sense of immersion in this pristine wilderness.
Established in 1910 as the eighth official National Park in the United States, Glacier spans across over 1,500 square miles and has multiple entrances. While you may definitely see some (shrinking) glaciers, there is plenty else to stand in awe of, including lakes, wildlife, and the famous (and now ticketed) Going-to-the-Sun Road. Read this guide to Glacier so that you can make the most of your time in this stunning National Park.
getting to Glacier National Park ↴
Glacier’s northern location requires a bit of effort to get to. Still, millions of people make the journey to Glacier National Park every year. Most tourists fly to Montana and drive to Glacier. Major airlines like American Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue, United, and Delta have all recently added flights to Montana, including some to Glacier’s closest airport, Kalispell’s Glacier Park International Airport (FCA).
From the airport, you will absolutely need (and want) to rent a car. Make sure you book a rental in advance of your visit — they book out quickly. Alamo, Hertz, National, and all other major car rental companies are at the airport or are located at the airport, or in Kalispell and Whitefish.
the best time to visit Glacier National Park ↴
With fickle weather, most visitors storm Glacier during the short summer months for the warmest temperatures and a fully opened park. Despite these perks, it can be super crowded. I highly recommend early-to-mid September. You still get warm weather and there is less chance of forest fire smog ruining your mountain views. Also, there are fewer people to contend with.
The park is open from May until approximately the second or third week in October, but closure is dependent on the weather, which in Montana is always fickle. There are some roads with limited access until late June. For instance, Logan Pass and the road from Avalanche to Jackson Glacier typically stays closed until mid-summer. Outside of the open season, the road to Glacier from the West entrance is typically only open up to Lake McDonald. Trails are closed and so is Going-to-the-Sun Road.
where to stay near Glacier National Park↴
Where you stay will depend entirely on your budget and how close you want to be to the park. Most visitors either stay in the park (booking well in advance) or base themselves in towns nearby (Whitefish, Kalispell, Columbia Falls, etc.). Keep in mind that Whitefish is 35-minutes away from Glacier, and Kalispell is a 45-minute drive. There are shuttle buses between Glacier and the nearby towns that cost between USD $5-10, but I do highly recommend renting a car so that you have the freedom to explore at your leisure and can get to some of the backcountry hikes that are not accessible via shuttle bus.
The closer your proximity to the park, the higher the prices, especially during peak tourist season. My recommendations below cover most price points, but KOA Campgrounds are one of the most budget-friendly options you’ll find. My most recent trip to Glacier was done via campervan, so my fiancé and I free-camped in Columbia Falls in our KuKu Campers M Campervan.
Under Canvas Glacier
Under Canvas is a glamping brand that has multiple locations near national parks across the United States. Glacier’s Under Canvas does not disappoint. Located only 7 miles from the West entrance to Glacier, this luxury experience is made complete with gorgeous canvas tents, memory foam mattresses, and West Elm furnishings. Organic bath products await you after a long day of hiking, and complimentary yoga will help you limber up for further exploring. Under Canvas is worth every penny, especially if you love glamping as much as I do.
Reclusive Moose Cabin Rentals
Reclusive Moose Cabins hold a special place in my heart. in 2016, I made a girls’ trip to Glacier with my friends. I rented a cabin near the West Entrance, not paying much attention to the cabin itself. When we pulled up the road, we discovered the coziest cabin with amenities we weren’t expecting. The humble log cabin was furnished with a flat-screen TV, wireless internet, a complete kitchen (including a microwave, utensils, stove, and refrigerator), and the most comfortable couch you could hope for. I highly recommend a stay.
Belton Chalet
The Belton Chalet is a high-end accommodation option for those with a bigger budget. It offers easy access to Glacier’s East entrance, which is the side of Glacier with the best hiking trails (in my opinion). It’s a rustic-meets-sophistication type of chalet that’s so popular, it often ends up booked for months in advance. If your heart is set on staying at the Belton, make sure you make plans as far ahead of time as possible.
Glacier Outdoor Center
Glacier Outdoor Center is very basic accommodation that’s clean and just sort of “gets the job done.” It’s only a mile from the West entrance to Glacier and is more affordable than the other accommodation listed in this post.
Kalispell Grand Hotel
If you’re looking for accommodation that’s closer to a town with provisions, you can’t go wrong with the Kalispell Grand Hotel. Kalispell is only ** miles from the West entrance of Glacier and the Kalispell Grand Hotel is right on the town’s main drag. Established in 1912, this historic hotel was once a hub for business travelers before falling on hard times and becoming a brothel. Later, it was revitalized and restored to its original glory. Kalispell is approximately a 45-minute drive from Glacier though, so plan accordingly.
We love using Booking.com to book the best places to stay around the world.
what to know before you go to Glacier National Park ↴
Before you head to Glacier, there are a few things you need to know to have the best time and to be a responsible visitor.
acknowledging Indigenous rights
First and foremost, Glacier National Park was inhabited by Indigenous Peoples, the original stewards of this land. Glacier National Park was a part of the Blackfeet Tribe’s original reservation before they were forced out to make room for hotels. This history is something all visitors should be aware of and acknowledge. Blackfeet Tribal members do get free access to the National Park, but that feels like a criminally disproportionate token of acknowledgment when the land itself was maintained by the Blackfeet People long before National Parks and tourism were ever really a thing.
pack in, pack out
It might sound obvious, but park visitors should follow the golden rule of outdoor recreation: if you pack it in, you pack it out. Leave no trace of your visit— no snack wrappers, water bottles, or toilet paper left behind!
geotagging in Glacier
Social media and the Instagram photo movement have brought a bevvy of conservation issues, not the least of which is geotagging. Geotagging refers to “tagging” a location on a social media post so that people know exactly where a photo was taken. While it may seem harmless, conservationists and the Glacier tourism board are begging people to quit geotagging specific trails. Glacier is especially at risk because its namesake landscapes (glaciers) are incredibly delicate. The environmental impact of thousands upon thousands of tourists visiting is hugely concerning. Avoid tagging exact locations and opt for less specific markers when you do.
give wildlife space
Animals should be given plenty of space. Even the least aggressive wildlife species you might encounter should get ample room so that they don’t get nervous or feel threatened. The general rule is to stay approximately a school bus distance away from non-aggressive animals and two school buses away from larger animals, like moose or bears. If you’re keen to capture wildlife on camera, make sure you pack your zoom lens.
what to pack for Glacier National Park ↴
Because the weather in Montana is constantly changing, packing for a trip to Glacier National Park can be tricky. Throughout the course of a single day, you might experience all four seasons. Packing properly ensures you have a good time and are prepared for whatever the weather may throw your way.
packing essentials
PARKS PASS + GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD TICKET | In order to enter Glacier, you are going to need to purchase a Parks Pass. You can save yourself a lot of money, especially if you plan on visiting multiple national parks, if you purchase an “America is Beautiful Annual National Parks Pass,” which gives you access to all U.S. National Parks for a year. 10% of the profits are donated to the National Parks Foundation to help with conservation efforts in the parks. You can purchase a pass online here. If you are only planning on hitting up Glacier, you can purchase a pass at the gate. You cannot, however, purchase a Going-to-the-Sun Road ticket at the gate, and this is a necessary USD $2 purchase (jump down to “how to get going-to-the-sun road tickets ↴” ).
CAMERA | You will not want to head to Glacier without a camera. Photos do it little-to-no-justice, but I can guarantee you’ll want photographic evidence of this National Park’s sweeping views.
DOWN JACKET | A down jacket that is lightweight and rolls up into your daypack is exactly what you need, especially as you hike further into the mountains.
RAIN JACKET | Just as it gets cold in Glacier, it’s likely to rain off and on, depending on the day. Come prepared with a rain jacket in your daypack and you’ll stay warm and dry no matter what the day brings.
HIKING SOCKS | One of the best parts of Glacier’s landscape is all the hiking it offers. Even if you visit in the summer, you’ll want to make sure you have thick, high-quality hiking socks if you plan on hitting the trails.
HIKING BOOTS | Hiking in sneakers around Glacier isn’t a good idea. The trail terrain is often rocky, uneven, and loose. Proper hiking boots are essential.
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | Fun fact: the higher the elevation, the more water you need to drink! Ditch the yucky plastic water bottles for a reusable one.
SNACKS + WATER | This is especially important if you plan on doing any of the long hikes I recommend in this post. Staying fueled up is critical to get your body up and back down the mountain trails. Same with staying hydrated. Friends don’t let friends turn into cacti.
SUN PROTECTION | Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen should all be either on your or in your daypack when visiting Glacier. No matter what the weather conditions, you should at minimum protect your skin from damaging sun rays with SPF.
how to get going-to-the-sun road tickets ↴
In 2021, Glacier National Park announced that they would be implementing a new ticketed entry system for the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This new system was put into place to help manage traffic on the famous windy road, alleviating congestion and gridlock. The ticket system is relatively straightforward and uncomplicated. It was deemed a success in its debut year, so it’s believed the ticketing entry will continue.
You need a Going-to-the-Sun Road ticket if you are visiting Glacier National Park and arriving by private vehicle (including motorcycle) during peak season from May 28th (Memorial Day) through September 6 (Labor Day weekend). You do not need a ticket if you enter the park before 6 AM or after 5 PM or if you are visiting outside of peak season. You do not need a ticket if you are arriving by foot or bicycle. Tickets for Going-to-the-Sun Road are included for day-use visitors who have booked overnight stays at the lodges between the West and East (St. Mary) park entrances.
You can purchase a ticket for USD $2 online www.recreation.gov up to 60 days in advance of your arrival date. You cannot purchase a ticket at the park gates. A ticket for Going-to-the-Sun Road does not grant entry to Glacier. You will still need to purchase a Parks Pass.
what to do in Glacier National Park ↴
hiking
The absolute #1 thing you must do in Glacier is hike. One of the reasons that Glacier is my favorite National Park (of the ones I’ve been to so far) is the overwhelming amount of lush hiking that abounds. Your feet will be tired, your legs will feel heavy, but you’ll finish each and every day having taken in amazing views of glacial lakes and stunning mountainscapes. Hiking in Glacier National Park is also suitable for an array of skill levels. There are half-mile hikes on nearly flat terrain and 17-mile trails for advanced enthusiasts. Whatever your experience, there is a hike in Glacier for you to enjoy!
My favorite 🥾 hikes in Glacier are:
Highline Loop Trail | 11.8-miles
Grinnell Lake | 10.6-miles
Redrock Falls | 4.2-miles
McDonald Creek | 5.6-miles
Trail of Cedars (more of a walk) | 1-mile
Avalanche Lake | 4.5-miles
Grinnell Glacier Overlook | 15.5-miles
Hidden Lake Overlook | 2.7-miles
Apikuni Falls | 1.7-miles
Cracker Lake | 12.6-miles
Swiftcurrent Pass | 14.2-miles
Pitamakan-Dawson Loop | 17-miles
white-water rafting + floating
Glacier is for adventure-seekers, and nothing says “adventure” quite like rafting in the aquamarine waters of Glacier National Park. Glacier Guides and Glacier Raft Co. are both highly-reputable and have been known for hosting thrilling trips along rushing water (my friend actually did this for the rehearsal dinner before her wedding). Not one for adrenaline rushes? Don’t worry! There are also guides who offer scenic floating trips.
red bus tours
The Red Bus Tours around Glacier are iconic. Passengers squeeze into vintage red buses from the 1930s and are chauffeured around the park by seasoned guides who share their expert knowledge about the park’s history and heritage. There are 33 buses in the tour company’s fleet, but tours sell out daily, so book yours in advance if you’re at all interested.
Lake McDonald
There is a reason why so many people elope on the shores of Lake McDonald— its impeccably clear water is set against an almost ethereal mountain landscape. The lake water is so clear in fact, that one Google of “Lake McDonald” will take you to cascades of images of colorful pebbles. These bright rock beds were formed over time due to iron.
St. Mary Lake
Heading west on Going-to-the-Sun Road, you need to make a stop at St. Mary Lake. If you're looking for a different way to experience the lake, consider booking a boat ride across the water to the iconic Wild Goose Island. Glacier Park Boat Company is a reputable company for boat tours on the water and around the island. The guides will point out wildlife and share some of the area’s history and geological features. This side of Glacier is truly underrated.
Huckleberry Lookout
If you’re looking for a challenging hike with a fantastic view, head up to Huckleberry Lookout. Located near Apgar Village Lodge + Cabins, this 5-mile hike opens up to incredible views of Glacier. Huckleberry Lookout is one of a number of historic fire lookouts throughout the park, and fire fighting staff live and work there. If the staff aren’t busy managing wildfires, they are usually quite happy to answer your questions about Glacier and the local area.
day trip to Waterton Lakes National Park
On the northern side of Glacier lies Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada via the Chief Mountain border crossing. Alberta’s prairie gives way to jarring views of the Rocky Mountains cutting up from the horizon, spattered with teal lakes in this Canadian National Park. There is plenty of hiking, wildlife spotting, and water activities to be done with a day in Waterton. Be sure to check out the Prince of Wales Hotel, which is like something from a Wes Anderson movie!
where to eat + get food nearby Glacier National Park ↴
groceries + provisions
Super1Foods - Columbia Falls
Two Medicine General Store - East Glacier
Albertson’s - Kalispell
Smith’s Food + Drug - Kalispell
Safeway - Whitefish
Super1Foods - Whitefish
where to eat in Kalispell
Colter Coffee | Expertly brewed coffee served in a cool café setting
Ceres Bakery | Fresh bread made daily, sandwiches, pastries, and hot coffee
Bonelli’s Bistro | Italian food and alfresco seating options
Moose’s Saloon | For over 60 years, Moose’s Saloon has been feeding Kalispell’s hungry pizza in a funky saloon atmosphere.
Bias Brewing | Taking over Kalispell Brewing Company’s landmark building, Bias Brewing offers pizza, sandwiches, and shareable platters to accompany delicious craft beer.
where to eat in Whitefish
Loula’s Café | Housed inside an old Masonic temple, dishing up hearty comfort food favorites
Montana Coffee Traders | Delicious coffee and fresh cabinet pastries await. There are also locations in Kalispell and Columbia Falls!
Abruzzo Italian Kitchen | Upscale Italian cuisine
Great Northern Bar + Grill | Burgers, beer, and other comfort snacks
map ↴
Find everything you need for the ultimate guide to Glacier National Park, United States on the map below.
