Exploring Glacier’s Crown Jewel: The Going-to-the-Sun Road
Day Five of our Warner Brothers family reunion (vacation phase) was nothing short of breathtaking. After days of fun together, and shared meals, we took to the high country of Glacier National Park for an unforgettable drive along one of America’s most iconic roads—the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Winding through the heart of the park, this spectacular 50-mile stretch is more than just a scenic drive—it’s a marvel of engineering and a gateway to Glacier’s wild grandeur.
Completed in 1933 after over 10 years construction, the road was named after Going-to-the-Sun Mountain, a towering peak with spiritual significance to the Blackfeet Nation. According to local legend, the deity Sour Spirit came down from the Sun to teach the people and then returned to the heavens from the summit of this mountain—thus inspiring the name.
The road climbs to Logan Pass, the highest point accessible by car in the park, offering panoramic views of alpine meadows and rugged peaks. Along the way, we passed crystal-clear lakes like St. Mary Lake, breathtaking waterfalls such as Bird Woman Falls, and sweeping scenes that were amazing at nearly every turnout. We were hoping to catch glimpses of mountain goats, marmots, and even a bear maybe, but it was not to be.
One of the most memorable parts of the day was riding in the iconic Red Bus Tour.
These bright red, open-air vehicles (when the canvas top is rolled back) have been shuttling visitors through Glacier since the 1930s. Originally built by the White Motor Company and later restored with eco-friendly Ford engines,
these buses are not just a fun way to see the park—they’re a rolling piece of American history,--- “legendary” as our guide Marv put it. There are currently 35 in operation at Glacier.
A bit about Marv. He made the trip on the Red Bus totally worth it. He was friendly, informative, congenial and was determined that we were all going to have fun. He has been a Red Bus Tour bus driver guide (jammer) for at least five years. He is a total history buff and overloaded us quickly with facts and history that made the drive all the more meaningful.
Marv started out in the first 20 minutes asking if was had heard of the Beach Boys “Little Deuce Coup” song. Of course we had. He changed the words a little bit to “Little Red Bus” and sang an outstanding rendition of it. It was great and we all joined in for the chorus.
We made a few stops along the way and Marv was an encyclopedia of information about the mountain ranges, the history of the area, the wildlife present as well as the trees and shrubs and flowers we saw along the way.
Here are some of the highlights on the route:
1. Lake McDonald
History: Lake McDonald, the largest lake in Glacier National Park (10 miles long), was carved by Ice Age glaciers. Its colorful rocks and crystal-clear waters are iconic. The historic Lake McDonald Lodge, built in 1913, is a landmark along the road.
2. Weeping Wall
History: This natural feature is a cliff face where water streams down like a waterfall, particularly during the snowmelt season. It’s a favorite roadside spot where cars can get a splash in early summer.
3. Logan Pass
History: At 6,646 feet, Logan Pass is the highest point along the road and named after Major William R. Logan, the park’s first superintendent. It’s the starting point for iconic hikes like the Hidden Lake Trail.
We stopped at the Logan Pass Vistor’s center and gift shop for a potty break and to get some souvenirs. Pam joined us after she talked with Marv for a bit and asked him about Lewis and Clark and their travels near Glacier National Park. (They came close, about 50-60 miles, to the eastern side of the park in 1806.
4. Bird Woman Falls
History: Bird Woman Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, plunging 492 feet. It is named in honor of Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who guided Lewis and Clark, as locals referred to her as the “Bird Woman.”
5. Jackson Glacier Overlook
History: This is one of the best places along the road to see a glacier from your vehicle. Jackson Glacier, once part of the larger Blackfoot Glacier, is one of the park’s remaining glaciers and a stark reminder of climate change.
6. St. Mary’s Lake
· History: This is one of the best places along the road to see a glacier from your vehicle. Jackson Glacier, once part of the larger Blackfoot Glacier, is one of the park’s remaining glaciers and a stark reminder of climate change.
Here are some people photos:
Making friends as we waited for the tour to begin.
One our first stops on the Road to the Sun
