The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park was completed in 1932 and spans over 50 miles through cliffs, precipices, and plenty of scary twists and turns as it ascends to over 6,600ft. How can you make the most of the Going-to-the-Sun Road on your next visit to Glacier National Park?
Photo Opportunities
With over 50 miles of open road, waterfalls, crevices, mountaintops, and other scenic views, the Going-to-the-Sun Road affords plenty of photo opportunities. With many pullouts along the way up the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you will be spoilt for choice as you search for the best locations to stop the car and take pictures of the breathtaking mountain views and the native wildlife.
Stop by Logan Pass
Logan Pass is located on the Continental Divide at 6,646ft, which is the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It is 32 miles from the west entrance and 18 miles from the east entrance of Glacier National Park. Stop by Logan Pass and have a look inside the Visitor’s Centre, where millions of tourists stop off each year.
From Logan Pass, you can spot bighorn sheep, mountain goats and Columbia ground squirrels foraging for food, and make plans to go hiking on any one of the numerous hiking trails dotted around Logan’s Pass. Then there are the meadows at Logan Pass that are bursting at the seams with beautiful wildflowers, where you can kick back and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Take a Red Bus Tour
If driving up close to steep cliffs and around tight curves does not sound like your idea of fun while driving through the Going-to-the-Sun Road, book a seat on a Red Bus Tour and let someone else take care of the driving for you. The buses were first built in the 1930’s. However, do not expect a 1930’s style ride, as the buses were completely refurbished with new suspension and shocks in 2001, with open tops (during warmer weather) that offer the opportunity for some spectacular scenery during your Red Bus Tour.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a true marvel with plenty to see and do as you drive along and take in the sights, and sounds around you. Stop along the way for photo opportunities, take in the historic Logan Pass, located on the Continental Divide or take a Red Bus Tour for a truly unforgettable experience.
Sources:
Glacier Park Inc,. Red Bus Tours
http://www.glacierparkinc.com/tour_detail.php?id=1
Glacier National Park. Explore Logan Pass.
http://www.glacier-national-park-travel-guide.com/logan-pass.html
