Glacier National Park: Going to the Sun Road

Glacier National Park: Going to the Sun Road

Stunning views, glacier-carved mountains, and numerous wildlife sightings highlight this 28-mile ride in Glacier National Park.

Author:	Brian I. - Idaho
Date:	22 Jun 2007 7:24:46 PM
Activity:	Bicycling ActivitySearchBicycling
State:	Montana (MT)
Distance:	28.3 mi (Change units)
Elevation:	Total Gain: 7861 ft Total Loss: 4598 ft Net Change: 3263 ft
Difficulty:	5 / 10
Tags:	Polebridge, Glacier National Park, Montana
Rating:	Unrated Rate it

Glacier National Park is packed full of stunning views of glacier-carved mountains, glacier lakes, and thriving wildlife. The ride can start in several places depending on how far/long you'd like to ride.

The first 15 miles are somewhat easy as you meander along Lake McDonald. Don't worry, though; if it's a challenge you're looking for, the next 15 miles won’t disappoint. This climb would probably be rated 'beyond category' in a pro race. If you need a break, stop at Logan Pass to use the restroom or refill your bottles. Stay a while at the top and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in the world. When you’re well and rested, reward yourself with the jaw-dropping descent or take a free shuttle back to the start.

The road is closed starting September 16th, so get up there while you have the chance!

Click here for more info.

Position Format:	Datum:

Tracks

Glacier National Park: Going to the Sun Road

Dist: 28.30 mi	Points: 135	Calories: none
Time: none	Speed: 0.0 mph	Pace: 0:00 / mi

Points of Interest

Apgar Village

Location: 48.528429°, -113.974228°
Park your car at Apgar Village. You can take a shuttle down from the top all the way to Apgar if you wish.

Lake McDonald

Location: 48.562976°, -113.927536°
Check out Lake McDonald. The water is warmer than you would imagine and crystal clear. Now is the time to soak in the beauty. It will be steep in just a few miles.

Lake McDonald

Location: 48.592959°, -113.889084°
Another view of the lake. It is easy to understand why the call this "Big Sky Country." Stop here on the way back for a nice relaxing swim. The water is surprisingly warm.

Looking Back

Location: 48.628371°, -113.861618°
A look back across Lake McDonald to some smaller mountains in the distance. Take another look before you hit the devilish climb in another few miles.

The Road Ahead

Location: 48.641076°, -113.860931°
Easy ride as you enter the park. Look out for bears, and check out that mountain in the distance. That is where you are going. It is easy now, but wait until you get on that mountain up ahead.

Getting Steeper

Location: 48.638354°, -113.865051°
Starting to get a little steeper, but the big climb is much further ahead. Take your time to enjoy the view of the lake and mountains in the distance. Still pretty flat, but there is some elevation gain.

The Whole Family

Location: 48.715431°, -113.714676°
Where there are babies, there are mommies. Remember that these animals are wild. Family of goats. You are guaranteed to see some sort of wildlife on your visit to Glacier.

Baby Mountain Goats

Location: 48.716790°, -113.718796°
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. I found these baby goats near the parking lot at the top of the climb. I also saw big horn sheep and bears along the way. There are also mountain lions, eagles, and many more species lining the roads and skies. Wildlife is everywhere at Glacier. Keep your distance--they are wild animals.