Summer and biking activities open for booking January 15.Get the email when they open

Glacier Hikes & Bikes
(406) 871-2448Book
A rider on an e-bike passing yellow larches on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Fall in Glacier

The larches go gold, the parking lots empty out, and the road stays open until the snow says otherwise. Late September into October from our shop in Columbia Falls.

Fall is the quiet season with the big views. After Labor Day the traffic thins week by week, the afternoon bike closure ends in late September, and the alpine section of Going-to-the-Sun Road usually stays open until the third Monday of October, weather allowing.

It is the season for a scenic drive with a guide who knows where the elk are, a gravel ride on the North Fork Road under gold larches, and a last e-bike day on the road with the mountains to yourself.

What Happens in Fall

  • The afternoon bike closure on Going-to-the-Sun Road ends in late September, so the whole day is open to riders again.
  • The alpine section of the road typically closes for the winter around the third Monday of October, earlier if snow comes early.
  • The lower road to Lake McDonald Lodge stays open all year.
  • Larches turn gold in October across the North Fork and the Flathead National Forest.
  • Wildlife is active and visible in fall, and bears are feeding hard before winter: keep your distance and carry spray.
  • Services inside the park wind down through October; bring what you need for the day.

What Runs in Fall

Good to Know

How late can I drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?
The alpine section usually closes around the third Monday of October, but an early storm can close it sooner. The lower road to Lake McDonald Lodge stays open all year. Check the park's road status page before you come.
Is fall a good time to bike the road?
Yes. The afternoon closure ends in late September, the cars thin out, and the mornings are cold and clear. Dress for winter at the top.
When do the winter tours start?
November. The guided snowshoe tour and the winter driving tour run November through March and can be booked online.
Where are the larches?
The North Fork Road toward Polebridge, the Camas Road and the Flathead National Forest roads turn gold in October. The gravel bike and the scenic drives are the two ways we take you there.

Read Before You Come

Your Next Ride Starts Here

Pick a date and see everything you can book, or call the shop and talk to someone who rides these roads every week.

Find a DateContact the Shop