Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road from East to West offers a different perspective on Glacier National Park’s landscapes, lighting, and dramatic scenery. Starting at the St. Mary entrance and ending at West Glacier, this two-day itinerary gives you time to explore each highlight, enjoy short hikes, and take in the stunning contrasts between the park’s eastern and western sides. By traveling east to west, you’ll begin in the wide-open valleys of the east and gradually enter the lush forests of the west, ending with the peaceful shores of Lake McDonald.
This direction often means you’ll have the morning sun at your back when photographing the eastern peaks, and in the afternoon, you’ll drive into the softer light of the west. The gradual descent also offers easier pacing, with more time to linger at alpine viewpoints.
Day 1 – St. Mary to Logan Pass
Start your trip in the small community of St. Mary, the eastern gateway to Glacier National Park. This area has several lodges, restaurants, and supply stores where you can prepare for the drive. Enter through the St. Mary Entrance and prepare for an immediate introduction to one of the park’s most beautiful features.
Morning: St. Mary Lake & Wild Goose Island
The first major highlight is St. Mary Lake, stretching over 9 miles with a turquoise surface that mirrors the surrounding peaks. Stop at the Wild Goose Island Overlook for one of the park’s most famous photographic scenes—a small island set against towering mountains and changing light. This view alone has inspired countless visitors to return to Glacier.
Midday: Sunrift Gorge & Jackson Glacier Overlook
Continue west to Sunrift Gorge, a short but impressive slot canyon formed by centuries of rushing water. The easy walk from the parking area rewards you with unique geological features and cool shade in summer. Further along, make time for Jackson Glacier Overlook, one of the few roadside viewpoints where you can see an active glacier. Interpretive signs here explain the glacier’s history and its visible retreat over the past decades.
Afternoon: Climb to Logan Pass
The road begins to climb steeply toward Logan Pass, crossing alpine meadows and offering ever-expanding views of the valleys below. Along the way, stop at Oberlin Bend, where a telescope is often set up for spotting mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and sometimes even bears. Arriving at Logan Pass—the highest point on the road at 6,646 feet (2,026 meters)—you’ll find the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which serves as a hub for hiking, ranger talks, and scenic photography.
If time allows, take the short but unforgettable hike to the Hidden Lake Overlook. This trail offers sweeping views of alpine meadows and the sparkling waters of Hidden Lake, often accompanied by sightings of mountain goats grazing along the path.
For your overnight stay, you can choose lodging near Logan Pass, in Rising Sun, or return to St. Mary if you want to enjoy a quiet evening with views over the eastern valleys.
Day 2 – Logan Pass to West Glacier
Day 2 leads you down the western slope of the Continental Divide into denser forests, cascading waterfalls, and the calm beauty of Lake McDonald.
Morning: Weeping Wall & The Loop
Descending from Logan Pass, you’ll pass the famous Weeping Wall, where melting snow creates a curtain of water over the road. In early summer, expect to drive through fine mist or even a refreshing splash. A short distance later, you’ll encounter The Loop, a dramatic hairpin turn that marks the start of the steep climb from the west side (or descent, in your case). Stop here for impressive views of Heaven’s Peak and the McDonald Valley.
Midday: Avalanche Creek & Trail of the Cedars
As you continue westward, the scenery shifts to thick cedar and hemlock forests. Avalanche Creek is the starting point for the popular Trail of the Cedars, an easy loop trail through an ancient forest. The boardwalk path is accessible and offers cool shade and the sound of rushing water. Just beyond is the Avalanche Lake Trail, a longer but rewarding hike leading to a glacial lake surrounded by sheer cliffs.
Afternoon: Lake McDonald & West Glacier
The final stretch takes you along the shore of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. Stop at Lake McDonald Lodge, built in 1913, to enjoy its historic charm and lakeside views. Apgar Village, near the lake’s western end, is the perfect place for a celebratory meal, souvenir shopping, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Your journey concludes at West Glacier, where you can either continue to other areas of Montana or reflect on the incredible variety of landscapes you’ve experienced—from open alpine valleys to dense forests and serene lakeshores.
Tips for This Itinerary
- Book lodging in advance: Accommodations inside the park fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Check road conditions: The road’s opening date varies each year depending on snow removal progress.
- Travel early or late in the day: This avoids the heaviest traffic and offers better lighting for photos.
- Bring binoculars: Wildlife sightings are common, especially in alpine meadows and near lakes.
This two-day east-to-west itinerary ensures you experience the Going-to-the-Sun Road in a way that highlights its changing landscapes, unique viewpoints, and the sense of wonder that comes from crossing one of the most scenic roads in North America from one end to the other.