With dense forests, alpine valleys, glacier-filled mountain peaks, the Glaciers National Park has a lot to offer. The sweeping area of wilderness along with a little planning offers beautiful sightings as well as adventure that include the Going-To-The-Sun road where the continental divide can be seen clearly.

 Locating the Going-To-The-Sun Road

 Located on the northwest corner of Montana along the border of Canada, the Going-To-The-Sun Road can be reached after you pass by numerous landmarks including the Waterton Lakes National Park and the ancestral homeland of the Blackfeet and the Kootenai tribes that reflect and highlight the heritage of the region.

 The Going-To-The-Sun Road connects the east and west sides of Glacier National Park. The western side includes various areas such as the North Fork, Apgar village, etc. On the eastern side, there are various landmarks such as St Mary, two medicine, as well as different types of glaciers. This road also requires reservations during the summer for driving but there are areas that can be enjoyed thoroughly once you come across the beautiful views by the roadside. 

 What Is The Elevation Till The Going-To-The-Sun Road?

 The elevation gain till Going-To-The-Sun road depends upon the speed at which you will be peddling if you cycle. Most people start from the western side of the Lake McDonald Lodge or the Avalanche Lake Trailhead. Both locations start over 3000 feet of elevation. The Avalanche Park is the perfect spot to avoid any car traffic. You can get any early ride to get an early start from the lot to be among the first to enjoy the view.

If you prefer the eastern route then you can start from the St Mary Visitor Centre. It also reduces the climb if you start from this route. 16 miles from Avalanche Lake, this route takes about 18 miles of peddling to arrive at the Logan Pass. 

 Places to Stop During the Ride

 There are various scenic points that give you a welcome sign to the Going-To-The-Sun Road. The West tunnel is one such location wherein peddling or cycling is the only way to walk under the arches through the side of the tunnel. It offers a unique view and there are not many places as such that would provide you with the same experience. 

On the western side of the location, you will be able to experience the breath-taking view of Heaven’s Peak. There are also other sections that are beautiful to look at such as the Bird Woman Falls and the Weeping Wall. 

 Best Time to Experience Cycling to Going-To-The-Sun Road

 The best time to visit the place is around spring time. If you plan it beforehand, then hiking and biking will be a fun experience throughout the whole route. 

While ploughing takes place in early April, hikers and bikers are allowed on the road. However, the ploughing process should be taken into consideration to know whether the areas are safe to bike to. 

 Essentials for Your Bike Ride

There are several essential pieces of equipment and gear that will help you speed up the process and have a seamless tour of the place while on your bike:

 Repair Supplies

There are supplies that will help you buckle up if your bike breaks down or needs repair during the middle of the tour. Without cell phone service, it becomes difficult to ask for help if the terrain is not feasible to peddle. Use a multi-tool in case you need to gear up heavy. 

Shoes

One of the important gears that help you pedal effortlessly is a good pair of shoes. If you have a good pair, it will offer protection while you are pedalling up the hill or on uneven

terrain. Carry a pair of athletic shoes and you are all set to go!

Warm Weather Clothes

Warm clothes keep you comfy and protected while you enjoy the majestic views. One of the useful pieces of attire you can carry is the three levels of apparel. You can then wear them according to the changing weather and terrain. 

A Pack

A hydration day pack is as important as your sunscreen and warm clothes. This will also include your snacks, your extra equipment as well as water which are an important option to carry while you are out in the wild.

Rain Jacket

Although it comes inside the pack, the quickly changing weather can call for an emergency. It is safer to wear a raincoat and stay protected from the elements. You can also pack one just in case you decide to stay overnight and travel.

 Are you planning to bike the Going-To-The-Sun Road or have been there? 

Make sure to carry the essentials and research beforehand about the limitations so that you can enjoy the weather without compromising your travel plans.