Reservations for Going-to-the-Sun Road
Glacier National Park will not require a park-wide vehicle reservation system in 2026. The park will continue targeted congestion management in high-demand corridors, including active management of Going-to-the-Sun Road, parking limits at Logan Pass and temporary vehicle diversions if safety thresholds are reached. A 3 hour parking limit will be implemented at Logan Pass in peak season, and visitors wanting to stay longer should utilize the parks shuttle system.
How to Book a Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle
Shuttles for Going-to-the-Sun Road can be booked through Recreation.gov in two ways:
1. Rolling Advanced 60-Day Reservations: Starting on May 2nd at 8 a.m. Mountain Time. Reservations will be released 60 days in advance on a daily rolling basis. These reservations are good for one day.
2. Next-Day Reservations: Beginning June 30, next-day reservations will be available at 7 p.m. Mountain Time on a daily rolling basis for the following day’s entry.
Tickets are valid for one day and have specific departing times and locations. Tickets can not be purchased at the park. They can only be purchased on Recreation.gov for a $1 processing fee.
Planning ahead is key, especially during peak season. Securing your shuttle in advance ensures you don’t miss out on this iconic route.
About Going-to-the-Sun Road
Going-to-the-Sun Road, often called the Highway to the Sun, is an engineering marvel and the main route through Glacier National Park, crossing the Continental Divide. The road traverses mountain passes, glacial lakes, cedar forests, and alpine tundra, teeming with wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and bears. Along the way, you’ll find over 20 scenic stops and three visitor centers: Apgar, Logan Pass, and St. Mary. Running east-west between Apgar and St. Mary, the road can be driven in either direction. As you navigate the route, you’ll ascend over 3,000 feet to Logan Pass, which sits at 6,646 feet. Typically, Going-to-the-Sun Road opens from late June to early October, depending on snow conditions.
Tips for Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road
Make the most of driving Going-to-the-Sun Road with these essential tips:
Start Early: Parking fills up by mid-morning, so start at sunrise or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Fill Up on Gas: There are no gas stations within the park. Gas stations are located at the ends of the drive, in West Glacier and St. Mary.
Allow Extra Time: The drive takes about 2 hours without stops, but plan to spend 4-to 5 hours exploring and enjoying the views before sundown.
Bring Food and Water: Pack a lunch and plenty of water. While dining options are available at Apgar, Lake McDonald, and Rising Sun, bringing your own can save time. Under Canvas can prepare delicious grab-n-go lunches for you to enjoy. A great spot for a picnic is Lunch Creek, located on the descent from Logan Pass, offering stunning mountain views.
Drive West to East: Most scenic viewpoints are on the south side of the road, making driving west to east easier for parking. However, driving east to west may be more comfortable if you’re uncomfortable with heights.
Download Maps and Reservations Offline: Phone service is limited along the road, so have your maps and vehicle reservations available offline.
Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road is an unforgettable experience. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a smooth journey through Glacier National Park.
Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park
Located just seven miles from the park’s west entrance, Under Canvas Glacier offers luxurious, safari-inspired accommodations with easy access to 700 miles of trails, alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and wildflower-covered meadows. Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as a top resort, Under Canvas Glacier lets you enjoy the beauty of “Big Sky Country” in comfort and style.
Secure your reservation for driving Going-to-the-Sun Road and book your stay at Under Canvas to make the most of your trip. Start planning your unforgettable adventure today!
Check out our guide to 72 Hours in Glacier National Park for the perfect trip itinerary.