When Does Going-to-the-Sun Road Open? The 2026 Outlook
If you’re staring at your 2026 calendar and dreaming of Montana, you’ve likely asked the million-dollar question: "When does the Going-to-the-Sun Road open?"
Crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass is the "holy grail" of the Glacier National Park experience. But as we sit here in February, the answer isn't found on a fixed schedule—it's written in the snowpack of the High Rockies.
The Million-Dollar Question: Is 2026 an "Early" Year?
The short answer? It’s too early to tell, but the signs are interesting.
So far, the winter of 2025–2026 has been relatively mild. We've seen lower-than-average snowfall in the valleys, which naturally leads to speculation that the road might open ahead of schedule. While a light snowpack is a great head start for the National Park Service (NPS) plowing crews, veteran "Glacier-goers" know the mountains play by their own rules.
Why We Can’t Predict the Date (Yet)
Even with a mild winter, predicting an opening date in February is like trying to guess the score of a game that hasn't started. Here is why the "official" date remains a mystery:
The "Big Drift": Near Logan Pass, wind currents create a massive snowbank known as the Big Drift. Even in "dry" years, this wall of snow can reach 80 feet deep. It takes weeks of precision plowing to carve through it, regardless of how much snow fell in February.
Spring "Surprise" Storms: In the Rockies, May and June are often the snowiest months at high elevations. A single late-season blizzard can dump three feet of heavy, wet snow, instantly resetting weeks of plowing progress.
Avalanche Danger: It’s not just about moving snow; it's about safety. Plowing crews cannot work if the "snow start" above them is unstable. A warm spring can actually delay progress by increasing avalanche risks.
Historical Context: What to Expect
While every year is unique, history gives us a "window" to aim for. Typically, the road opens fully between late June and early July.
2023- July 2
2024- June 22
2025- June 13
Note: Even if the full road isn't open, the lower sections (to Lake McDonald Lodge or Rising Sun) usually open much earlier, offering plenty of beauty for early-season hikers and bikers.
Pro-Tips for Your 2026 Planning
Book for July or August: If driving the entire road is your top priority, don't gamble on June. Aim for the "safe zone" in mid-July to ensure the pass is clear.
Watch the "Plough Logs": Starting in April, the NPS releases "Plowing Status" updates. These are the most accurate way to track progress as crews move toward the Big Drift.
Biking Window: There is a magical "sweet spot" in late May and early June where the road is plowed but not yet open to cars. This is the best time for cyclists to enjoy the road in total silence. Check out our bike tours, rentals, and shuttles.
Check Vehicle Reservations: Remember, even when the road opens, you will likely need a Vehicle Reservation to enter the corridor during peak hours.
The Bottom Line
We are off to a mild start in 2026, which is great news for an early opening. However, the High Rockies are famous for late-season surprises. Keep your plans flexible, pack your layers, and remember that Glacier is spectacular—with or without the pass.
