Explore the classic landscapes that made Glacier National Park famous, with a local guide at the wheel and the park’s west side out the window.
This guided scenic drive focuses on the west side highlights: Hungry Horse Dam, Lake McDonald, Going-to-the-Sun Road as far as Lake McDonald Lodge, and the forested corridor in between. It is designed for visitors who want to experience Glacier’s most iconic scenery without the stress of driving, parking, or navigating vehicle restrictions, with frequent scenic pullouts, short optional walks, and engaging interpretation along the way. One of the best ways to see Glacier for first-time visitors, families and photographers.
How the Day Goes
We meet at our shop in Columbia Falls and begin with the scenic drive toward Glacier’s west entrance while your guide provides background on the park’s geology, wildlife and history.
The first stop is Hungry Horse Reservoir and Dam, one of the largest dams in North America, with sweeping views over the water.
Inside the park we stop along Lake McDonald for photos of crystal-clear water, the colorful river stones and the surrounding peaks, then follow Going-to-the-Sun Road along the lake to the historic Lake McDonald Lodge. Your guide highlights the glacial features, wildlife corridors and engineering of the road. We are not authorized to drive past the lodge, and we do not go to Logan Pass.
Lunch is provided at a scenic location within the park, and the afternoon continues with additional pullouts and short walks based on weather, crowd levels and road conditions, before the relaxed drive back with time for final photos and questions.
The exact itinerary may vary with weather, construction, traffic or National Park Service restrictions.
What to Bring
Comfortable clothing suitable for changing mountain weather, warm layers and a rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, a camera or phone, personal snacks if you like, and a gratuity for your guide. Binoculars are recommended. Bear spray is carried by your guide. The park entrance fee is not included.
More Ways to See Glacier
The East Glacier scenic tour covers St. Mary Lake and Many Glacier. To ride the Sun Road rather than drive it, see the e-bike tour.
