By DILLON TABISH for the Flathead Beacon
Now’s your best chance to experience the peaceful wonder of Glacier National Park before the swarming summer season.
After a mild winter, plow crews are making quick work of Going-to-the-Sun Road and are already just shy of Logan Pass. In other words, it won’t be long before the west-side of the road opens and the flood of visitors begins.
Currently, the road is open to vehicle traffic for 15.5 miles to Avalanche Creek. Hikers and bikers can access all the way up to The Loop and have the road to themselves. On weekends, if crews are not working, biker access is unlimited.
One of the more exciting activities in the park is biking the scenic Sun Road on a full-moon night. This summer, there are full moons on Tuesday, June 2; Thursday, July 2; Friday, July 31; and Saturday, Aug. 29.
The full-moon ride is a spectacular activity that offers an unforgettable glowing presentation of Glacier’s high country. Most often, riders park at The Loop and travel 8 miles to Logan Pass. The serpentine road has a slight uphill grade, which means it’s not easy, but it’s certainly rewarding.
Riders should be extremely cautious and wear proper gear, including headlamps.
For more information about the Sun Road, visit the National Park Service’s website.
A cyclist along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Courtesy Dan Hansen.