Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Drive 29
Going-to-the-Sun Road
TwistingandturningasitclimbsthroughthemountainsofnorthwesternMontana,
this drive reveals the wild and wondrous essence of Glacier National Park.
Length:
About 50 miles
When to go:
Going-to-the-Sun Road is usually open from June to mid-October.
Nearby attraction:
Waterton Lakes National Park, contiguous to Glacier, lies north of
the U.S.-Canada border. The two together are known as Waterton-Glacier International
Peace Park.
Words to the wise:
Bring sunscreen and warm clothing, such as sweaters and rain gear.
Further information:
Glacier National Park
Montana Office of Tourism
1.
Lake McDonald
Before heading into the heart of the park, you might want to acquaint yourself with some
of its plants and animals, which are featured in exhibits at the Agpar visitor center. Thus
informed, you can be on the lookout for the real thing as you set out on Going-to-the-Sun
Road. For 10 miles or so, the highway hugs the once wooded shore of Lake McDonald, the
site of forest fires in 2003 that charred many of the trees on its opposite shore.
Leavingthelake,thedrivetunnelsthroughaforestofmountainhemlocksandredcedars
as it begins its climb beside McDonald Creek. Along the way, it passes McDonald Falls,
where a thunderous roar heralds a stunning view of the cascade. Just beyond lies a marshy
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