Pedaling the Going-to-the-Sun Road

Bike the Sun Road: Car-Free Mountain Magic

Experience Glacier’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road during the exclusive Hiker-Biker season
Imagine cruising up a mountain highway flanked by jagged peaks and glittering waterfalls—without a single car in sight. Each spring in Glacier National Park, that dream becomes reality during Hiker-Biker season, a brief window when the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road opens to cyclists and hikers before it opens to vehicles. Locals in this mountain town region wait all winter for the chance to bike this iconic road car-free, and savvy travelers plan trips to experience the serenity and thrill of pedaling one of America’s most scenic routes.

What Makes Hiker-Biker Season So Special?

From late April to mid-June, road crews are still plowing winter snow from the higher elevations of Going-to-the-Sun Road. That means the cleared sections are exclusively open to cyclists and hikers. It’s a rare, magical time when the road is free from traffic and full of wide-open views. You’ll hear birdsong, rushing creeks, and the hum of your tires on the pavement instead of engines. You can stop anywhere to snap photos or take in the view—no crowded pullouts, no car noise, just you and the mountains.

Route Highlights: Avalanche Creek to Logan Pass

The Journey at a Glance

Distance: 16 miles one-way (32 round trip) Elevation Gain: ~3,200 feet Start: Avalanche Creek (accessible by car) Turnaround Point: Logan Pass (Continental Divide, elevation 6,646 ft.)
Along the way, you’ll pass stunning landmarks like The Loop, Bird Woman Falls, Weeping Wall, and Haystack Creek. Spring meltwater pours down cliffs, wildlife grazes nearby, and snow still lines the higher reaches. Logan Pass, if you make it that far, is often surrounded by towering snowbanks!

Why It’s Eco-Friendly and Immersive

Biking the road is one of the most sustainable ways to experience Glacier. You reduce emissions, skip the vehicle reservation stress, and enjoy a more personal connection to the park. You’ll hear waterfalls, smell pine, and spot wildlife—all things you miss in a car. And by choosing to ride instead of drive, you’re helping preserve the park for future adventurers.

E-Bikes Built for the Climb

Cannondale & Raleigh with Bosch Motors

Our premium electric bikes are perfect for conquering the Sun Road without overexertion:
Bosch Mid-Drive Motors: Smooth pedal-assist power helps conquer steep grades effortlessly
Optimized Gear Ratios: Designed for mountain climbs with intuitive shifting
Long Battery Life: Range of 60–80 miles—plenty for your full-day ride
Comfort Features: Cushy saddles, upright geometry, and suspension
Whisper Quiet: Enjoy the sounds of nature without engine noise
E-bikes make the ride accessible to most fitness levels, and they’re just plain fun. Whether you’re cruising with friends or pushing toward the pass, they give you the freedom to enjoy the climb without burning out.

What to Pack: Your Day-Trip Checklist

Helmet
Water (2+ liters)
Snacks + Lunch
Warm layers
Rain jacket
Gloves
Buff or Beanie
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Padded bike shorts
Phone/camera
First-aid kit
Bear spray
Repair kit
Headlamp
Backpack
The weather can shift fast—prepare for anything from sun to snow on the same ride.

Ready to Ride? Gear Up with Glacier Outfitters!

We live for spring adventures like this. Our premium Cannondale and Raleigh e-bikes with Bosch mid-drive motors are built for mountain climbs and smooth descents. Located right in Apgar Village, we’re steps from Lake McDonald and the start of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Reserve Your E-Bike Now

Glacier Outfitters – Apgar Village

📞 406-219-7466
✉️ info@goglacieroutfitters.com
See you on the road. Adventure’s waiting.
author avatar
Dave Hampton

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