Biking FAQ
What if the Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed to hiker/biker traffic?
Keep in mind that around here, we joke that we have two seasons, winter and road construction. When roads are closed or are in rough shape for guided biking, we may reroute our trip to another area of Glacier National Park. This may be an area which is open to vehicle traffic, such as the Camas Road. Alternatively, it may involve involve a van shuttle to a road on Glacier’s stunning east side, which will be several hours long. We’ll always keep you aware of your options.
How far is spring biking in Glacier National Park on the Going-to-the-Sun Road?
It depends. Read more here.
What are the restrictions on biking in Glacier National Park?
Starting June 15, first 8 miles of the Going to the Sun Road are restricted to bicycles between 11am and 4pm, i.e. from Apgar to Sprague. As summer unfolds and the Going to the Sun Road opens fully to vehicle traffic, other restrictions go into effect. From June 15th until Labor Day, east-bound/uphill bike traffic is prohibited from Logan Creek to Logan Pass between 11am and 4pm. Check the park’s biking page for the latest rules and regulations here.
Do I need bear spray for biking in Glacier National Park?
If you’re on a guided biking tour with us, your guide will have bear spray. If you’re not with us, we recommend carrying a can in one of the water bottle carriers on your bike — it’s always best practice to keep it handy!
You should also bring water, food, and layers — just like you would if you were hiking. Click here for our Glacier National Park Day Trips Packing List – Biking. And speaking of hiking, there will likely be hikers on the road – share the road, please.
Can my dog go, too?
Sorry, no. During the spring, pets are not permitted past the road closure gates, which are typically at Lake McDonald Lodge or Avalanche on the West Side, and at Rising Sun on the east.
Are electric bikes permitted on the Going to the Sun Road?
- Yes, Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are allowed if the motor is less than 750 watts (1 hp) and engaged only while pedaling. Read more here.
Does renting a bike get me into the park without a vehicle reservation?
No! In order to get into the park WITHOUT a vehicle reservation, you need to be traveling into the park WITH us. For example, if you take our bike shuttle, you do not need a vehicle reservation. Another way to avoid a vehicle reservation is if you plan to ride a bike INTO the park. If you plan to drive yourself into the park, you MUST have a vehicle reservation for Going-To-The-Sun Road corridor (West Glacier, Camas, North Fork area) May 27th-September 10th between 6am-3pm and St. Mary at Rising Sun, Two Medicine and Many Glacier July 1st-September 10th, 6am-3pm. You will always need a park pass, this is not the same thing as a vehicle reservation.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
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Biking Testimonial
My husband and I had a half day fly fishing trip through Glacier Guides and Montana Raft. The whole experience was great, from making the reservations online, a phone conversation before our trip, checking in, customer service, and our wonderful guide. Glacier Guides was very easy to work with to get the trip we wanted, and very welcoming when we arrived. Everything happened exactly as advertised and exactly on time. Our guide Cam was just terrific. He took us down the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, taught us about fly fishing, helped us with our technique, and was a great companion throughout. It was a beautiful day on the river and a true highlight of our time in Montana.
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Biking Testimonial
We rented two e-bikes and were super happy with the experience! This outfitters location is great for picking up bikes bc there is a bike path that leads all the way back into West Glacier so you don’t have to transport your bikes by car or ride on the road to get into the park to start biking. We left our rental car in the lot all day and headed out directly from the bike lot to get our day started. Checking out the bikes and returning them was super easy and quick – we had made reservations on line which I highly recommend to ensure you get an e-bike if you want one and to ensure you get one that is the right size – very important especially if you’re short like me (5’2″) cause these bikes are a bit heavy and even the smallest size is still pretty big. No issues with the bike quality and e-biking the going to the sun road was SO much fun and doable for anybody whose ridden a bike before – you def don’t have to be a bike pro to have a good time.
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Hiking Testimonial
We did the 3 day backpacking trip with Tom a few weeks ago. It was the BEST experience we could have asked for! We will book again if we get the chance. Unforgettable views and experience. Not to mention the food Tom made with just one little burner was perfect.
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Lodging Testimonial
The other reviewers did not lie. We loved our accommodations and the relaxed environment they’ve created for their guests. The lodge is down the road from the west entrance to GNP. This means it is quiet and the reason why we saw the “neighborhood” bear about 30 yards away as we drank our post-hike tea. Clearly, the signs were right, it is bear country. We would definitely lodge here again.
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Biking Testimonial
Used Glacier Guides/Montana Raft Company for a bike trip up the Going to the Sun road in West Glacier and a white water rafting trip on the Flathead River. Jordan was our guide for the former, Blaine for the latter, and both were really awesome. Would definitely use them again for future hikes, biking, and rafting.
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