Since Chris and I moved to Montana, we’ve been looking for an opportunity to travel the scenic Going To The Sun Road that runs through Glacier National Park. This road is probably the most famous route for visitors traveling through the park, it winds its way along turquoise snow fed streams, dramatic waterfalls, and along the mountain's edge providing breathtaking views of the park. Since the road peaks at 6,646 feet at Logans Pass, it is covered with snow for the majority of the year. When it’s not covered in snow, park services work for weeks to repair the damage that winter weather has had on its narrow path.
In early June the road was still not open to cars, and would most likely not be for at least a few more weeks. The weather was incredible and we could not wait to explore deeper into the park. Thankfully, in early summer the park opens the Going To The Sun Road to people who want to walk or bike its route before cars are allowed through.
Although we aren’t avid bikers, we decided to venture as far as we could up the Going To The Sun Road with our average mountain bikes one sunny Saturday afternoon (some better bikes may have helped our stamina). The scenery along the road is absolutely breathtaking, but the act of biking brings the experience to a whole new level. We had the entire road to ourselves, without having to worry about cars passing or waiting for us, and could take our time to stop at different view points or go off the road and explore. We worked hard for the 13 plus miles that we biked uphill, and were rewarded with unbelievable views, and our first Glacier bear sighting of a little black bear sunning himself in a tree just off the road. The way back down was a lot less work and a ton of fun as we coasted the entire way.
Experiencing the Going To The Sun Road in this way was a once in a lifetime experience, we would totally recommend it! Come to Glacier a few weeks before the peak of the season and explore its beauty on the open road.
Labels: Biking the going to the sun road, Glacier National Park Blog, Going to the sun road, Going To The Sun Road Blog, Montana, Montana Blog, The Road Less Traveled, Travel Blog, Travel Photography, UnitedStates
