Going-to-the-Sun Road Montana RV Trip
Located in Glacier National Park, this scenic road offers unparalleled views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and pristine alpine lakes as it winds through the heart of the park.
Venturing along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana is a journey of awe-inspiring proportions, earning its well-deserved place among the top three RV trips in the United States. This legendary route traverses the heart of Glacier National Park, showcasing some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, from towering mountain peaks to pristine alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls.
The sheer grandeur of Going-to-the-Sun Road is reason enough for its top-tier rating among RV travelers. Carved into the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains, this engineering marvel offers panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. As you wind your way along its switchbacks and hairpin turns, you’ll be treated to vistas of glacier-carved valleys, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic peaks of the Continental Divide, each turn revealing a new tableau of natural splendor.
Beyond its jaw-dropping scenery, Going-to-the-Sun Road offers an abundance of outdoor adventures for RV enthusiasts. From hiking and wildlife watching to fishing and photography, Glacier National Park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore this pristine wilderness and immerse yourself in its beauty.
Moreover, Going-to-the-Sun Road is steeped in history and cultural significance, adding another layer of depth to the RV journey. As you traverse the park, you’ll encounter historic chalets, Native American archaeological sites, and remnants of the area’s early pioneer heritage, each offering glimpses into the rich tapestry of human history that has unfolded amidst this rugged landscape.
But perhaps what truly sets Going-to-the-Sun Road apart as one of the top RV trips in the United States is the sense of adventure and discovery it evokes. Whether you’re marveling at the sight of a grizzly bear foraging in a meadow, witnessing the iridescent hues of a glacier-fed lake, or simply gazing in wonder at the star-studded sky above, every moment on this iconic route is a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the natural world. And as you navigate its twists and turns, you’ll find yourself drawn ever deeper into the untamed wilderness of Glacier National Park, forging memories that will last a lifetime.
Traveling on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana is a breathtaking experience, offering stunning vistas of Glacier National Park’s rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests.
Here are some tips for navigating Going-to-the-Sun Road in an RV:
Know the road restrictions: Before taking on your journey, be aware of any size restrictions or vehicle limitations on Going-to-the-Sun Road. The road has tight curves, narrow sections, and low-clearance tunnels, so check for any restrictions on RV length, width, or height.
Plan your route: Study the route of Going-to-the-Sun Road and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider starting your journey early in the day to avoid crowds and have ample time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Check road status: Before heading out, check the current road status and any closures or restrictions on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Weather conditions can vary, and certain sections of the road may be closed due to snow or construction, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Drive cautiously: Going-to-the-Sun Road features steep grades, sharp curves, and narrow shoulders, so drive at a safe and steady pace. Be prepared for slow-moving traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons, and use pullouts to allow faster vehicles to pass.
Watch for wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep, while driving on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Be cautious and reduce your speed when approaching wildlife crossings or areas where animals may be present.
Use pullouts for photo stops: Take advantage of designated pullouts and viewpoints along Going-to-the-Sun Road to safely stop and capture the stunning scenery with your camera or smartphone. Avoid stopping in the middle of the road or blocking traffic.
Check for RV-friendly parking: Identify RV-friendly parking areas or designated parking lots along Going-to-the-Sun Road where you can safely park your RV and explore nearby trails or attractions on foot.
Be prepared for high elevation: Going-to-the-Sun Road reaches elevations of over 6,600 feet, so be prepared for changes in altitude and potential effects of high elevation, such as reduced oxygen levels and colder temperatures. Dress in layers and stay hydrated.
Know where to turn around: Some sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road may have tight turns or limited space for turning around, especially for larger RVs. Plan your route carefully and identify suitable turnaround points before reaching challenging sections of the road.
Enjoy the journey: Finally, take your time to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park and Going-to-the-Sun Road. Stop often, take in the scenery, and create lasting memories of your RV adventure in this spectacular wilderness.
By following these tips and exercising caution, you can have a safe and unforgettable RV journey on Going-to-the-Sun Road, experiencing some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes that Glacier National Park has to offer.
Where to stay on your RV trip along Going-to-the-Sun Road:
While there are no RV parks directly along Going-to-the-Sun Road within Glacier National Park, there are several campgrounds and RV parks located nearby that provide convenient accommodations for travelers exploring the area. Here are some RV parks to consider when traveling on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana:
West Glacier KOA (West Glacier, Montana): Located just outside the west entrance of Glacier National Park, this KOA campground offers RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and convenience store. It’s a convenient base for exploring Going-to-the-Sun Road and the surrounding area.
Glacier Campground (West Glacier, Montana): Situated within walking distance of Glacier National Park’s west entrance, this campground offers RV sites with electric hook-ups and easy access to hiking trails and visitor services. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak summer season.
St. Mary/East Glacier KOA (St. Mary, Montana): Located near the east entrance of Glacier National Park, this KOA campground offers RV sites with full hook-ups, as well as amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and bike rentals. It’s a convenient base for exploring Going-to-the-Sun Road and the park’s eastern side.
Johnson’s of St. Mary (St. Mary, Montana): This family-owned RV park and campground is situated near the east entrance of Glacier National Park, offering RV sites with full hook-ups, tent sites, and rustic cabins. It’s within close proximity to St. Mary Visitor Center and other park attractions.
Glacier Meadows RV Park (East Glacier Park Village, Montana): Located in the heart of East Glacier Park Village, this RV park offers full hook-up sites and easy access to dining, shopping, and recreational activities. It’s a short drive from the east entrance of Glacier National Park.
Mountain Meadow RV Park (Hungry Horse, Montana): Situated near the west entrance of Glacier National Park, this RV park offers spacious sites with full hook-ups, as well as amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and laundry facilities. It’s a convenient base for exploring Going-to-the-Sun Road and nearby attractions.
Columbia Falls RV Park (Columbia Falls, Montana): Located near the west entrance of Glacier National Park, this RV park offers full hook-up sites, tent sites, and cabins. It’s within easy driving distance of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the park’s western attractions.
Deer Run RV Park (Troy, Montana): Situated near the northwest corner of Glacier National Park, this RV park offers full hook-up sites, tent sites, and cabins. It’s a peaceful retreat with access to outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.
Glacier National Park RV & Boat Storage (Columbia Falls, Montana): This RV storage facility also offers short-term RV parking with electric hook-ups, making it a convenient option for travelers visiting Glacier National Park and Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Whitefish RV Park (Whitefish, Montana): Located near the town of Whitefish, this RV park offers full hook-up sites, as well as amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and clubhouse. It’s a short drive from Glacier National Park and offers easy access to dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.
These are just a few of the RV parks and campgrounds near Going-to-the-Sun Road that provide convenient accommodations for travelers exploring Glacier National Park and the surrounding area. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to secure your desired site.
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONEThis article is part of our series on the Top 10 RV Trips to take in the United States.
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