Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w . d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m 71 GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD Of all the must-do scenic drives in Montana, Going-to-the-Sun Road reigns supreme. Consid- ered by many the Crown Jewel of the continent, Going-to-the-Sun Road cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park, straddles the Continental Di- vide, and offers views of some of the most beautiful lakes, mountains, and valleys the world has to offer. Going-to-the-Sun connects the East and West sides of Glacier, and is the only road that runs through the interior of the park. As you cruise along, you'll enjoy views of crystal-clear Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, the Weeping Wall, and, of course, Going-to-the-Sun Mountain, which towers over the road at an altitude of 9,642 feet. GTS also offers easy access to many of the park's best seasonal attractions, including the Hidden Lake and Highline Trails. e opening and closing dates of the road vary from year to year, but you can generally count on accessing GTS from mid-May to late October. For more information, check out the Parks Ser- vice's list of prior year opening and closing dates. FAST FACTS • ROAD LENGTH 50 Miles • PAVED OR GRAVEL? Paved • DO YOU NEED 4WD? No • TRAFFIC Moderate to Heavy • VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS To ensure driver safety, GTS prohibits vehicles with trailers, or vehicles that are longer than 21 feet or wider than 8 feet. is restriction applies from Avalanche Campground to Sun Point. • ACCESS DATES Seasonal THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY e Beartooth Highway begins on Highway 212 in Red Lodge, Montana. e first few miles of the drive are relatively flat, winding through dense forests and along the banks of scenic Rock Creek. e road quickly gains elevation and begins to wind through the Rock Creek Valley. Within about seven miles, the grade increases to about 6%, with lots of sharp switchbacks and stunning views. Don't worry, though—the highway is well-maintained and offers plenty of turnouts and scenic viewpoints. Be sure to stop at Rock Creek Vista Point (elevation - 9,190 feet) to take a few pictures of the sprawling valley below. e area is home to grizzly bears, gray wolves, and mountain goats, so keep your fingers crossed for a wildlife sighting. e Beartooth Highway is open seasonally, generally from Memorial Day weekend to mid- October depending on snowfall. FAST FACTS • ROAD LENGTH 50 Miles • PAVED OR GRAVEL? Paved • DO YOU NEED 4WD? No • TRAFFIC Moderate to Heavy • VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS Trailers are allowed, although drivers should proceed with caution, as the road includes many sharp switchbacks. • ACCESS DATES Seasonal 1 2 THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY CONTINUED

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