Question 1

When can I bike Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Accepted Answer

Glacier receives lots of snow every Winter, so Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically covered in snow until road crews begin plowing in April. Typically, you can bike Going-to-the-Sun Road from late April or early May, until late June or early July. Once plowing completes and cars are allowed, biking Going-to-the-Sun Road is not recommended.

Question 2

What if Going-to-the-Sun Road opens to cars on or before my reservation date?

Accepted Answer

We do not recommend biking Going-to-the-Sun Road with cars. Therefore, if the road opens to cars on or before your reservation date, we will cancel and refund all bike and shuttle reservations. You may also choose a partial refund and do kayak rentals or half-day biking around Apgar or Camas Road instead.

Question 3

How long will it take me to bike Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Accepted Answer

Plan for lots of picture breaks, pack a picnic and plan to make a fun day of it! Full-day rentals allow pickups as early as 7am with returns before 6pm. Allow minimum 4 hours biking plus 30 minutes driving each direction, totaling approximately 6 hours.

Question 4

How far will I be able to bike on Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Accepted Answer

Distance varies by season. Late April/mid-May typically allows biking from McDonald Lodge to Avalanche Creek (about 10 miles round trip). There are typically about 2-4 days a year that the road is completely plowed and open only to bikers all the way to Logan Pass. The complete Avalanche to Logan Pass route totals about 32 miles round trip.

Question 5

Where does the ride start and end?

Accepted Answer

Typically you drive to the parking lot for Avalanche Trailhead/Campground and start your bike ride there. However, in early season when the road is just starting to be plowed, it may only be open to cars to Lake McDonald Lodge and you will park there and begin your ride from there. The shop is 10 miles from McDonald Lodge and 15 miles from Avalanche Trailhead.

Question 6

How steep is Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Accepted Answer

From Avalanche Creek to Logan Pass, you gain about 3,200 ft in almost 16 miles. Breakdown: Avalanche to The Loop gains ~880 ft in 8 miles; The Loop to Big Bend gains ~1,420 ft in 5 miles; Big Bend to Logan Pass gains ~900 ft in 3 miles.

Question 7

Can I start the ride from your shop in Apgar Village?

Accepted Answer

We don't recommend starting the ride from our shop in Apgar Village. Starting from the shop adds 20-30 extra miles round trip on roads with cars and no bike lanes. Bike racks and shuttle service ($35/person) are available to transport riders to proper starting points.

Question 8

Do you take us/our bikes to Logan Pass so we can bike back downhill to you?

Accepted Answer

No. No cars, trucks or shuttles are allowed past the road closure, only hikers and bikers. Riders must bike uphill from Avalanche or Lake McDonald Lodge and turn around at the road closure. A shuttle service is available from West Glacier to Avalanche.

Question 9

Can I bike from Avalanche to St Mary (and back)?

Accepted Answer

Because of the uncertainty with when Going-to-the-Sun Road will be fully plowed, trying to schedule a time to bike Going-to-the-Sun Road in its full entirety from Avalanche to St Mary and back, is REALLY hard--if not impossible! A 2-4 day window exists annually, making advance planning nearly impossible.

Question 10

I looked at the GNP Road Status Map, but don't understand it...HELP!

Accepted Answer

The red lines show roads that are closed to cars (but still open to bikers to certain points). The yellow biker drop pin shows the road crew closure, which is the furthest point bikers can ride to while snow plows and crews are actively working. Additional pins may show the Road Hazard Closure, a safety point with heavy fines for violations.

Question 11

What are my pick-up options for a bike?

Accepted Answer

Electric Bikes may be picked up once we open at 7:00 am. All bikes are due back by 7:00 pm and are charged $1 per minute that they are late. Standard Bikes may be picked up at 7am or the night before, between 5pm and 8pm, based on availability.

Question 12

Are helmets included with my bike rental?

Accepted Answer

Yes, helmets and tire repair kits are included with all reservations. Bike locks are available upon request as well.

Question 13

Do I need a Vehicle Reservation to Bike Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Accepted Answer

Only if you're driving yourself to Avalanche Creek with your bike, after June 13th, 2025. A Timed Entry Vehicle Reservation is required 7 AM to 3 PM past the checkpoint. Exceptions: no reservation needed for West Glacier entry, shop visits, or bike rentals. The park's weekend biker shuttle is free; Glacier Outfitters' shuttle costs $40/person.

Question 14

Can I attach a child trailer to my bike?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Child bike trailers can be attached to both standard bikes and E-bikes.

Question 15

How do I transport my bike to Avalanche Trailhead?

Accepted Answer

Glacier Outfitters offers a bike shuttle during the biker season until Going to the Sun Rd opens to cars. The cost is $40 per person and reservations are required. The shuttle runs, based on availability and demand, up to two times a day at 9am and/or 12pm.

Question 16

Is an E-bike really necessary?

Accepted Answer

It is important to note that you still have to pedal an E-bike, it is not a throttled bike, so you are still putting in the work. At highest setting, an E-bike provides one "free" pedal for every pedal you make. Those not biking regularly may benefit from an E-bike, though non-E-bike rides are possible.

Question 17

Will the E-bike batteries last the entire time?

Accepted Answer

Our E-bike batteries allow you to explore up to 30-60 miles depending on mode and terrain, but it all depends on the rider and how they are using their E-bike. Battery use varies by mode (Turbo uses more power), rider weight, and terrain. In all of our years in business, we have only had a handful of guests each season come back and say they ran out of battery.

Question 18

What type of E-bikes do you have?

Accepted Answer

We rent Cannondale Tesoro and Diamondback Union E-bikes, both are equipped with a Bosch battery.

Question 19

What size bike should I get?

Accepted Answer

We have height ranges listed on the booking buttons for each bike. For hybrid bikes, they are quiet flexible between the sizing, so follow those guidelines. For e-bikes, they can ride a bit larger than a standard bike, if you are between sizes, we recommend sizing DOWN.

Question 20

Is the e-bike a cruiser style? Is the seat comfy?

Accepted Answer

Our bikes are not cruiser style, you will be slightly leaned over to reach the handle bars. Bike seats are never comfortable, even e-bike seats. Users should expect some soreness after riding if not accustomed to bike seats.

Question 21

Will my kids be able to bike Going-to-the-Sun Road? Can they ride an E-bike?

Accepted Answer

Every child is different, but typically children have much more stamina and energy than adults! We require that all E-bike riders be 16 or older. Child bike trailers can be attached to both standard bikes and E-bikes. Children's bikes in 20" and 24" sizes are also available.

Question 22

What should I bring with me the day I ride?

Accepted Answer

You'll want to be sure to have a backpack that you are comfortable wearing while you bike, as our bikes do not have baskets or anyplace to strap down items. Essential items include: layers, water, snacks/lunch, sunglasses, gloves, camera/phone, sunblock, face covering/balaclava, first aid kit, and necessary medications.

Question 23

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you wear pants that are easy to bike/hike in, not jeans. Wool socks are preferred over cotton. Our bikes have flat pedals, so any tennis shoe or hiking boot will work on your feet, we don't recommend open toed shoes. Bring multiple layers, rain jacket, gloves, balaclava, and sunglasses for variable mountain weather.

Question 24

Will we see bears, or other wildlife? Do I really need bear spray?

Accepted Answer

Glacier National Park is home to 71 species of mammals, and sometimes it may be easier for them to walk the clearly plowed roads than trudge through snow in the woods. Bear spray is encouraged for accessibility. Keep 100 yards away from bears or wolves, and 25 yards from any other animals.

Question 25

Are there places to lock our bikes so we can go on hikes?

Accepted Answer

There are some bike racks at Avalanche Trailhead parking for you to lock your bikes and go for a walk on The Trail of the Cedars, or all the way to Avalanche Lake. Bikes can be grouped to trees if racks are full. Bike locks are available to borrow from Glacier Outfitters.

Question 26

It's been years since I rode a bike/I had knee surgery/I'm older, will I be able to do this bike ride?

Accepted Answer

Biking Going-to-the-Sun Road isn't a cakewalk. But, if you take your time and have patience with yourself, you can likely succeed at it. It is also not unusual (or shameful) to walk your bike up a hill if you need to. Consult your doctor before riding if you have concerns.

Question 27

I read that you can't bike on weekdays when they are plowing, is that true?

Accepted Answer

No, you can bike 7 days a week usually. How far you can bike varies daily throughout the season, though. Monday-Thursday you can bike to the Road Crew Closure where plows work. Friday-Sunday you can bike to the Avalanche Closure, determined by an Avalanche Expert each Thursday evening.

Question 28

What about tipping the GO Crew?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is greatly appreciated! Our crew works so hard to make sure your gear is in its best condition before you arrive and we work extra hard to make sure you feel confident about our gear and the park before we send you out on your adventure. While we may not be guiding you all day, we do believe that the service we provide is just as quality and worthy of tipping. We accept credit card and cash tips. No cash? Ask your GO Team Member to add on a credit card tip when you return your gear. Thank you in advance!

Question 29

When should I make my reservation?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking your bikes about two months in advance, at minimum. The general rule is to reserve bikes as soon as dates are known. Reservations typically open at the start of each new year.

Question 30

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Reservations are not cancelled for fog, rain or a chilly day. We will cancel if the conditions are not suitable for biking (lightning, strong winds or extreme weather). Cancellations made at least 3 days prior to the trip will receive a full refund. Cancelling with 24 hours notice or more will be able to transfer payment to a future trip or program. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice will receive no refund. No shows will also forfeit the entire reservation fee. If we cancel due to emergency, extreme weather, or if the rental item is down for repairs you may reschedule or receive a full refund. In the event Glacier Outfitters has to cancel the reservation, we will make every attempt to contact you in a timely fashion.

Question 31

What is the Optional Damage Waiver?

Accepted Answer

For a small daily fee ($8 for E-bikes, $4 for standard bikes), our Optional Equipment Damage Waiver protects you from out-of-pocket costs for accidental damage during normal use. It covers things like punctured tubes, snapped chains, broken pedals, bent spokes, and minor frame scrapes. It does not cover theft, loss, negligence, unauthorized users, or damage from improper transportation. Without the waiver, you are responsible for the full cost of any damage or replacement. The waiver can be added at the time of pickup. View Full Damage Waiver Policy

Question 32

Apgar Village Bike Loop

Accepted Answer

A great family friendly bike path. About a 7 mile loop, paved and little to no traffic, aside from one or two bike crossings. Bike through Apgar Village and along McDonald Creek. Stop at Oxbow Bend to look for beavers, bike to the original bridge into the park-Belton Bridge-which is now a bike and pedestrian bridge. This ride also connects to the Gateway to Glacier Trail and West Glacier, so you can add in a stop in West Glacier for ice cream or a round of mini-golf. You could also bike out to the Gateway to Glacier Trail to bike to zip-line, grab cocktails at Glacier Distilling or other mini-golf spots.

Question 33

Camas Road Biking Experience

Accepted Answer

24 Miles RT. Ride from our shop on Camas road, which is a wide road with a nice shoulder. Enjoy beautiful mountain views and wildflowers. It is a previous burn area, so start early in the morning to avoid the summer afternoon heat. Stop at McGee Meadow to learn what a Fen is. At 12 Miles, you will hit the Northfork River and Northfork Road. Lock up your bike and hike up Demer's Ridge (7.2 miles) for beautiful views of Glacier's Livingston Range and the Northfork River. You don't need to hike very far to get these views! Want to learn more about Glacier on your ride? Add a 1 mile hike with the Forest and Fire Nature Trail, which can be found right after the Camas Road Entrance on the south side of the road.

Question 34

Gateway to Glacier Biking Experience

Accepted Answer

14 Miles RT. Take a beautiful ride and stop for lunch at our local distillery in Coram, MT. On the way home, stop at Halfmoon Lake for a swim (right off the bike path, easy to miss dirt road). Then enjoy the view of Southern Glacier Park on the way back into West Glacier. Bike to Belton Bridge, by going through West Glacier and taking a right at "Old Bridge Road". Bike over the bridge and put your bikes off to the side and go down to the river and enjoy the beauty! Take the gravel path back and go straight. The road will turn into the bike path to Apgar Village and will end in Apgar Village. Drop off your bike and walk down to the shoreline, for one last view or swim in Lake McDonald.

Question 35

Going-to-the-Sun Road is open to cars. Can I still bike it?

Accepted Answer

Technically, yes. Be aware that you will be biking in heavy traffic with steep drop offs, regardless of the time of day you choose to go. Going-to-the-Sun Road is very narrow and has no bike lanes or shoulders. You will be biking in the road, with cars at all times. We generally do not recommend biking the road once it is open to cars unless you are an avid cyclist and used to biking in the road with cars. Additionally, please be aware of limits to when you can be on the road on a bike during peak season. More information is available on the Glacier National Park website.

Question 36

Where should I bike if I can't bike Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Accepted Answer

See our handy guide to bikeable routes in the park for more information! (We recommend the Apgar Bike Path or Camas Road, usually)

Question 37

What kind of bike do I need?

Accepted Answer

See our handy guide for choosing your bike--but typically if you are just doing the Apgar Bike Loop a hybrid bike is more than sufficient. If biking Camas Rd, an E-bike may be nice to have for the first few miles that are uphill.

Question 38

What are my pick-up options for a bike?

Accepted Answer

Hybrid bikes may be picked up the evening before your rental begins by request. Please text our reservations desk to set this up. We cannot guarantee that bikes will be ready for pick-up prior to your reservation start time. If you do not need to make special arrangements for an early pick-up, late season bike rentals start at 8 AM.

Question 39

Can I attach a child trailer to my bike?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Child bike trailers can be attached to both standard bikes and E-bikes.

Question 40

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Reservations are not canceled for fog, rain, or a chilly day. We will cancel if the conditions are unsuitable for paddling or biking (lightning, strong winds or extreme weather). Cancellations made at least 3 days prior to the trip will receive a full refund. Canceling with 24 hours notice or more will be able to transfer payment to a future trip or program. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice will receive no refund. No-shows will also forfeit the entire reservation fee. If we cancel due to an emergency, extreme weather, or if the rental item is down for repairs you may reschedule or receive a full refund. If Glacier Outfitters has to cancel the reservation, we will make every attempt to contact you in a timely fashion.

Question 41

What about tipping the GO Crew?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is greatly appreciated! Our crew works so hard to make sure your gear is in its best condition before you arrive and we work extra hard to make sure you feel confident about our gear and the park before we send you out on your adventure. While we may not be guiding you all day, we do believe that the service we provide is just as quality and worthy of tipping. We accept credit card and cash tips. No cash? Ask your GO Team Member to add on a credit card tip when you return your gear. Thank you in advance!

Question 42

What is the Optional Damage Waiver?

Accepted Answer

For a small daily fee ($8 for E-bikes, $4 for standard bikes), our Optional Equipment Damage Waiver protects you from out-of-pocket costs for accidental damage during normal use. It covers things like punctured tubes, snapped chains, broken pedals, bent spokes, and minor frame scrapes. It does not cover theft, loss, negligence, unauthorized users, or damage from improper transportation. Without the waiver, you are responsible for the full cost of any damage or replacement. The waiver can be added at the time of pickup. View Full Damage Waiver Policy

Bike / Service	Rental Price (per day)
Electric-Bike (Min. 16 Years Old) Our Bosch Motor E-bikes explore up to 60 miles depending on mode and terrain. Suggested $8 damage waiver Suggested Damage Waiver: $8	$135
Standard Bike A cross between a mountain and a road bike, ideal for biking on the GTTSR. Suggested $4 Damage Waiver. Suggested Damage Waiver: $4	$60
Hiker/Biker Shuttle Shuttle to Avalanche or Lake McDonald Lodge. Departs 9am & 12pm.	$40
Car Rack (3 standard bikes OR 2 E-bikes) Attaches to almost any car, suv or hatchback. We can help with install, but you are responsible for your vehicle.	$20
Hitch Rack (2 to 5 bikes) Hitch-mounted rack for larger groups. Requires hitch receiver.	$40 - $55
Kids 20in Standard Bike (44"-55") Standard kids bike for younger riders.	$44
Kids 24in Standard Bike (52"-62") Standard kids bike for taller kids.	$44
Child Bike Trailer Teardrop style pull-behind trailer for a maximum of two children, 130lb weight limit. Attaches to our Standard and E-bikes.	$34

Bike Type	2 Hour	4 Hour	Full Day
E-Bike	N/A	$80	$135
Hybrid Bike	$26	$39	$60
Kids 20in Standard Bike (44"-55")	$22	$33	$44
Kids 24in Standard Bike (52"-62")	$22	$33	$44
Child Trailer	$20	$29	$34

Equipment	Waiver Cost
E-Bikes	$8.00
Standard Bikes	$4.00
Kayaks & Paddleboards (SUPs)	$3.00

Going-to-the-Sun RoadBike Rentals

West GlacierBike Rentals

Going-to-the-Sun Road Bike Pricing

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