Are you planning a trip to Glacier National Park in 2022? If so, you’ll need to make a ticketed entry reservation to drive Glacier’s crown jewel: Going-to-the-Sun Road. Show
Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the top scenic drives in the United States, called the “Crown of the Continent”. This main road through Glacier National Park is one of the best ways to see the park with little effort! This scenic drive is a must-see, typically open from late June to early October. But starting last year, the National Park Service began requiring reservations for all those that wanted to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road during the summer months. This system will continue in 2022, and I’m here to share everything you need to know about Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2022, including:
Are you looking for more ideas for your trip to Glacier National Park? Don’t miss these posts!
This post may contain affiliate links, where I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read more in this disclosure policy. Glacier National Park At-A-Glance Before diving in, here are a few highlights to help you plan your trip:
Going-to-the-Sun Road is the crown jewel of Glacier National Park. This 51-mile scenic drive winds through the heart of the national park. But before Going-to-the-Sun Road, there wasn’t an easy way for automobiles to navigate the park. In 1921, congress granted the Glacier National Park money to begin construction on what was then called the Transmountain Highway. Over the next 12 years, engineers and construction workers built what became Going-to-the-Sun Road. In 1933, the scenic drive opened to the public, but it wasn’t until 1952 that the road was paved entirely! Today, it is widely considered a transportation and engineering marvel. The builders battled deep snow and harsh conditions constructing a road across the Continental Divide. Plus, the road was built without large explosive blasts to maintain the natural landscape. Going-to-the-Sun Road snakes around the cliffs through immaculate scenery. The narrow, winding road makes this one of the most exhilarating drives in the country.
Will Glacier National Park require reservations in 2022?Glacier National Park will require reservations in two areas in 2022: Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork. The reservation system limits the number of daily visitors allowed to enter these park areas to improve traffic and protect park resources. Visitors to Many Glacier and Two Medicine will not need reservations. Why does Glacier have a reservation system?Glacier National Park is continuing their reservation system in 2022 to reduce traffic and congestion and improve the visitor experience. As national parks continue to set visitation records, reducing the number of vehicles in highly-trafficked areas is crucial. Reducing the number of visitors along Going-to-the-Sun Road allows emergency vehicles and park rangers to navigate the park without encountering dangerous traffic gridlocks. Less traffic also makes it easier for you to get around the park! On the other hand, North Fork is a sensitive, remote environment. The infrastructure in this part of the park cannot support the crowds found elsewhere. Reducing the number of visitors here keeps this area a quiet escape from the crowds found in the rest of Glacier National Park. Don’t miss the best sights in Glacier on your upcoming trip! This free, printable guide to Going-to-the-Sun Road covers all the best points of interest, tips for avoiding crowds along Glacier’s best scenic drive, and an exclusive map! Download your free Going-to-the-Sun Road guide here. Details on the Going-to-the-Sun Road 2022 Vehicle Reservation SystemIn 2022, Glacier National Park will require all visitors to make a reservation to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road between May 27 and September 11, 2022. Reservations will also be required to enter the North Fork area via the Polebridge Ranger Station during the same dates. Reservations can be made via Recreation.gov starting March 2, 2022, at 8 AM MST and are available 120 days in advance. This blog post focuses on the details for the Going-to-the-Sun Road reservations in 2022. To learn more about the reservation requirements for North Fork (if you plan to visit Bowman Lake), you can read the Glacier National Park update. 2022 Going-to-the-Sun Road Map and Reservation AreaThe map below shows the reservation areas along Going-to-the-Sun Road and North Fork in Glacier National Park for 2022. The route outlined in brown indicates sites along Going-to-the-Sun Road only accessible by reservation. You can view this Going-to-the-Sun Road map in more detail here. Going-to-the-Sun Road Reservation ExemptionsIf you meet any of these conditions, you won’t be required to make a reservation to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Important Details About the Going-to-the-Sun Reservations
How to Make Going-to-the-Sun Road Vehicle Reservations for 2022Your reservation to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road can be secured in two ways:
Important
Note Tips for Reserving Your Going-to-the-Sun Ticketed Entry
What to Do if You Can’t Get a Going-to-the-Sun Road ReservationIf you aren’t able to secure a reservation for Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2022, consider some of these alternatives:
Tours Along Going-to-the-Sun RoadThe following tours allow you access to Going-to-the-Sun Road for the day:
Where to Stay Along Going-to-the-Sun RoadGlacier National Park offers plenty of lodges and campgrounds along Going-to-the-Sun Road, perfect for exploring this beautiful area. In 2022, these lodging and campground reservations will allow you access to Going-to-the-Sun Road during your stay. The following lodges will allow you access to Going-to-the-Sun Road for the duration of your stay:
Read More: 35 Best Places to Stay in Glacier National Park Most of Glacier’s campsites are open from mid-June to early September. These campgrounds will allow you access to Going-to-the-Sun Road during your say:
When does Going-to-the-Sun Road open?The opening date of Going-to-the-Sun Road changes each year, depending on the last winter’s snowfall and plowing schedules. Generally, the road opens in mid-to-late June. However, it’s best to plan your trip to Glacier National Park between July and September to be safe. Historic Going-to-the-Sun Road Opening and Closing DatesParts of Going-to-the-Sun Road close during the year while others remain open year-round. The lower section of the road between Apgar and Avalanche Campgrounds is accessible even in the winter months. Plowing begins in spring, with sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road open to hikers and bikers only as crews plow the Logan Pass area. Before the entire opening in June, Going-to-the-Sun is typically open from Apgar to Avalanche Creek on the west side, and St. Mary to Jackson Glacier Overlook on the east side of the park. Over the past five years, Going-to-the-Sun Road across Logan Pass has opened on:
Glacier National Park closes Going-to-the-Sun Road for winter, with small sections from Apgar to Avalanche Creek open year-round. Over the past five years, Going-to-the-Sun Road across Logan Pass has closed on:
You can read more historical opening dates and all historical closing dates here. Is Going-to-the-Sun Road open right now?You can check the latest status here of Going-to-the-Sun Road, including plowing updates. This link also shares the latest updates on the Going-to-the-Sun Road opening for 2022. General Information About Driving Going-to-the-Sun RoadGoing-to-the-Sun Road runs through the heart of Glacier National Park. Along the drive, you’ll find some of the park’s best views and hikes. Here’s what you need to know before driving Going-to-the-Sun Road. Do you need a pass to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?In addition to the ticketed entry reservation system in place for 2022, you’ll also need to pay the fee to enter Glacier National Park. You have two options for your trip to Glacier:
Are you visiting multiple national parks in the next year? The America the Beautiful National Park Pass gets you into 400+ national park sites, including all 63 national parks, for 12 months! Get your national park pass ahead of time for only $80. How long is Going-to-the-Sun Road?Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is 51 miles long and runs from West Glacier to St. Mary. It takes approximately 2 hours to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road without traffic or stops. However, plan to spend at least 4 to 5 hours exploring the scenic drive. Where does Going-to-the-Sun Road start and end?Going-to-the-Sun Road starts in West Glacier just outside Glacier National Park’s west entrance. It traverses the park over the Continental Divide and ends in St. Mary, Montana. Which way do you drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?Going-to-the-Sun Road runs east-west between Apgar and St. Mary. You can drive Going-to-the-Sun Road in either direction. However, if you are particularly fearful of heights, I recommend going east to west, putting your car along the canyon wall for most of the drive. Should I take a tour of Going-to-the-Sun Road?My favorite way to see Going-to-the-Sun Road is on a self-guided tour in your car. I highly recommend the GyPSy Guides Going-to-the-Sun Road self-guided audio tour. It uses your phone’s GPS (which works without cell service!) to provide audio narration of all the top attractions along Going-to-the-Sun Road. It’s like having a tour guide without having to go on a group tour! Are there vehicle restrictions along Going-to-the-Sun Road?Since Going-to-the-Sun Road is narrow with sharp turns, the park service restricts vehicle size. Vehicles, trailers, or RVs longer than 21 feet or wider than 8 feet are restricted between Avalanche Campground and Rising Sun Picnic Area. If you drive a vehicle or RV that is restricted, I recommend renting a car for your time in Going-to-the-Sun Road. You can check rental car prices at the Kalispell airport here. Can you take a shuttle on Going-to-the-Sun Road?Glacier National Park runs a shuttle service along Going-to-the-Sun Road. The shuttle is ideal for those worried about congestion in parking lots or those unable to get a Going-to-the-Sun reservation in 2022. It is also very convenient for those staying in Apgar Village, Lake McDonald, or any campgrounds along Going-to-the-Sun Road. The shuttle runs between Apgar Village and St. Mary Visitor Center with Logan Pass Visitor Center transfer. Details on the exact schedule for 2022 are still being finalized, but you can stay up-to-date by reading more about the Glacier National Park shuttle system. Unlike 2021, reservations will not be required for the Glacier National Park shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2022. Instead, the shuttle will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. How do you get to Glacier National Park without Going-to-the-Sun Road?Going-to-the-Sun Road is the only route through the heart of Glacier National Park. To avoid Going-to-the-Sun Road, you can take Highway 2 south of the park between Apgar and St. Mary. You may also visit Two Medicine or Many Glacier areas without driving Going-to-the-Sun Road. Tips for Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2022
Looking for more tips on what to pack for your trip? Check out my guides on the best hiking gear, what to pack for a road trip, and essential camping gear for all my favorite gear picks and tips to make packing for your trip a breeze! Best Stops on Going-to-the-Sun RoadNow that you know all about Going-to-the-Sun Road, I want to share the best stops along the famous scenic drive. Here you’ll find incredible hikes and opportunities to see wildlife like mountain goats or a grizzly bear! If you want more tips on the best places to stop along the route (including a few incredible unmarked viewpoints!), download this free, printable Going-to-the-Sun Road guide. Apgar Visitor CenterGlacier National Park has three visitor centers along Going-to-the-Sun Road. The first one you’ll encounter is the Apgar Visitor Center, roughly a mile past the entrance station. This smaller visitor center is an excellent place to stamp your national park passport, talk to park rangers, or use the restroom. Lake McDonald Lodge
Built in 1913, Lake McDonald Lodge is a swiss-chalet park lodge. This historic lobby is worth a look around. After admiring the hall, head out back to take in the views of Lake McDonald from the dock. Here you can rent water sports equipment, like canoes, or sign up for a boat tour of Lake McDonald through Glacier Park Boat Company. Avalanche Creek
This area is home to Avalanche Campground and trailheads for Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake. You’ll notice it looks different than most areas of the park, more reminiscent of the pacific northwest with cedars and hemlocks. This is because Avalanche Creek was sheltered from recent forest fires, retaining more old-growth than other areas. The LoopThe Loop is an area named for its hairpin-shaped switchback. Here you can view one of the highest peaks in the park: Heaven’s Peak. The Loop is also the ending point for the Highline Trail and a trailhead for access to the Granite Park Chalet. Don’t miss the best sights in Glacier on your upcoming trip! This free, printable guide to Going-to-the-Sun Road covers all the best points of interest, tips for avoiding crowds along Glacier’s best scenic drive, and an exclusive map! Download your free Going-to-the-Sun Road guide here. Big Bend
As its name implies, Big Bend is a point where Going-to-the-Sun Road bends back on itself, creating a U-shape. The large pull-off here provides more opportunities for viewing and photographing the valley. This area is particularly pretty around sunset. Logan Pass Visitor Center
Logan Pass Visitor Center is located at the highest point along Going-to-the-Sun Road. It is home to two of the park’s most popular hikes (Highline Trail and Hidden Lake Overlook), so parking is difficult to come by in the middle of the day. Read More: 19 Best Hikes in Glacier National Park Jackson Glacier Overlook
Jackson Glacier is the seventh-largest glacier in the park and one of the only ones visible from Going-to-the-Sun Road. Bring binoculars for a closer view of the glacier, and take a moment to read the signage here around climate change’s impact on the dwindling glaciers. Wild Goose Island Overlook
Before reaching the eastern park exit, stop at this overlook along St. Mary Lake. Wild Goose Island Overlook is a majestic vantage point for sunset. It was featured in the opening credits of The Shining. St. Mary Visitor CenterAt the end of Going-to-the-Sun Road, you’ll find St. Mary Visitor Center before the park exit. Just outside of the park exit is another Glacier National Park sign if you missed the photo op on the way into the park. Looking for more ways to fill up your days in Glacier National Park? Check out my 3-day Glacier itinerary or my 7-day Glacier itinerary! Frequently Asked Questions About Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2022Do you need reservations to enter Glacier National Park?In 2022, all visitors will need reservations to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road. Most of these reservations are released 120 days out, with the remaining reservations released one day before. Is Going to the Sun Road open in Glacier?Going-to-the-Sun Road is expected to open in mid-to-late June, depending on plowing progress. For the latest updates and Going-to-the-Sun Road status, check the Glacier National Park Service website. Final Thoughts on Going-to-the-Sun Road in 2022Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the best scenic drives in the United States. In 2022, Glacier National Park will require all visitors to reserve ticketed entry to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork area of the park. You can make reservations via Recreation.gov up to 120 days in advance, beginning on March 2, 2022. If you cannot get a ticketed entry reservation, try booking a boat tour instead, as this grants you access for the day of your tour. Once you arrive in Glacier National Park, don’t miss the 22 must-see spots along Going-to-the-Sun Road listed here. My favorites are The Loop, Avalanche Lake, Logan Pass, and St. Mary Falls! Looking for more helpful guides for your trip to Glacier National Park? You’ll love these posts!
Don’t miss the best sights in Glacier on your upcoming trip! This free, printable guide to Going-to-the-Sun Road covers all the best points of interest, tips for avoiding crowds along Glacier’s best scenic drive, and an exclusive map! Download your free Going-to-the-Sun Road guide here. Don’t Forget to Save This Post on PinterestWhere can I enter Glacier National Park without a reservation?Mary (the eastern entrance), the Camas Road, and West Glacier (the western entrance) and at the Polebridge Ranger Station. You need an Park Pass, but NOT an vehicle reservation ticket, to enter any access point in the park except for the U.S. Highway 2 section.
Can I enter Glacier National Park without an entry ticket?In addition to the ticketed entry reservation system in place for 2022, you'll also need to pay the fee to enter Glacier National Park. You have two options for your trip to Glacier: 7-Day Glacier National Park Pass, which is valid for seven days and costs $35 at the park entrance station.
Can I just drive through Glacier National Park?Though portions of Going-to-the-Sun Road remain open year round, seasonal conditions (snow!) mean a drive across the whole road is only possible during summer months. Check Glacier's Road Status page before your trip. We suggest arriving early or staying late if you want to find parking at Logan Pass.
Is there timed entry for Glacier National Park?Be safe out there. From October 12 on, many national parks with previous timed entry requirements will drop them. Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Glacier National Park have all dropped the requirements, according to USA Today.
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