Adventure Collective
Complete GTTSR Journey with Glacier Institute in Montana - Kalispell

Complete GTTSR Journey with Glacier Institute in Montana

Columbia Fallseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels with minimal walking involved

Overview

Discover Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road with Glacier Institute’s full-day journey, combining stunning views, wildlife encounters, and deep insights into geology and history. Perfect for those wanting an accessible way to take in the park’s landmark sights.

Columbia Falls, Montana

Complete GTTSR Program

8 hours • Easy • Minimal walking • Most popular!

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable eight-hour journey along the breathtaking Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Experience iconic sites like Lake McDonald and Logan Pass while learning about the area's geology and wildlife. This unique adventure offers stunning views, rich history, and prime photo opportunities, perfect for those seeking a scenic exploration.

The complete Going-to-the-Sun road experience!

Duration

Eight Hours

About

This is your complete Going-to-the-Sun Road educational experience! The day will begin at 8am as we leave our office in towards the Glacier National Park entrance in West Glacier. Along the road, you will have chances to stop at iconic sites such as: Lake McDonald, Upper McDonald Creek, Trail of the Cedars, The Loop, Bird Woman Falls, Haystack Creek, The Weeping Wall, Big Bend, Logan Pass, Jackson Glacier Overlook, Sun Point, and Rising Sun. While admiring the sweeping views, you will learn about how the landscape was shaped, the history of this iconic road, and have the chance to view wildlife. This day program is the only one that will travel the complete 50 mile Going-to-the-Sun Road (and back), while taking the time to learn about geology, wildlife, and history. This experience is great for those who want less hiking, maximum sights, and prime photo opportunities.

Physical Requirements

  • Total distance (roundtrip): less than 1 mile
  • Total elevation gain: minimal
  • If infant or baby sits on paying adult's lap on the shuttle, there is no need to buy a ticket for the infant or baby.

Park Entrance Fees

Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the hike. These can be purchased online. A Vehicle Reservation is NOT required. Participation in your hike with the Glacier Institute acts as your Vehicle Reservation. These details will be included in your confirmation email.

What to Bring

  • Trail lunch, plenty of water and snacks for the day
  • Comfortable hiking shoes, at least 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen
  • Weather can be varied so please be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially warm layers for potential snow and high winds
  • Binoculars are very useful, but optional, as well as field guides that interest you

Adventure Tips

Book early for best availability

This popular full-day program fills quickly, especially in summer; reserve your spot well in advance.

Pack layers for variable weather

Temperatures and conditions change rapidly along the road—bring warm and waterproof layers.

Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting

Binoculars enhance views of mountain goats, marmots, and birds visible from stops along the route.

Arrive hydrated and bring snacks

Though stops include lookout points, bring water and a trail lunch to keep energy up through the day.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Mountain goat
  • Marmot

History

Going-to-the-Sun Road, completed in 1932, remains a landmark of early 20th-century mountain road construction and engineering.

Conservation

Glacier National Park emphasizes minimizing human impact with Leave No Trace principles, preserving fragile alpine ecosystems along the route.

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Adventure Hotspots in Kalispell

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Layered clothing

Essential

Prepare for rapidly changing temperatures and weather along the mountain route.

all specific

Sturdy walking shoes

Essential

Comfortable footwear for short walks at stops with rocky or uneven terrain.

all specific

Rain jacket

Essential

Mountain weather can shift quickly to rain or snow even in summer.

all specific

Binoculars

A useful tool for spotting distant wildlife and appreciating detailed landscape views.

all specific