Biking in Glacier National Park 2025
During the spring, roads are car-less and welcome bikers to fully immerse in nature
Best time: May–June
Riding a bike instead of driving a car in Glacier National Park adds an incredible sense of unity with nature. Along the way, you can discover all the extraordinary wildlife of northern Montana up close. Suitable biking routes in the national park include Camas Road, Two Medicine Road, and McDonald Creek Bike Path. These roads are mostly flat and accessible to both adults and children. Whatever you choose, it will be an unforgettable experience.
The legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road is suitable for confident cyclists only. This National Historic Landmark stretches across the entire park from east to west for 32 miles (51 km). The popular section between Apgar Visitor Center and Logan Pass includes two tunnels, a challenging climb to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet (2025 m), and breathtaking views of McDonald Falls, Bird Woman Falls Overlook, and Haystack Falls.
The most convenient months for biking are May and June. At this time, roads are open exclusively to hikers and cyclists. With the onset of summer, roads begin to open to cars, and there are fewer opportunities for cyclists to explore the area freely.
Practical info
What is the ideal season to bike in Glacier National Park?
May and June are the best months for biking in Glacier National Park as the roads are closed to car traffic. This is the best option for bikers to get ample routes without risking an accident with moving cars. As the season goes on and more visitors arrive, vehicles will be permitted, causing the lessening of safe and quiet routes suitable for riding a bike. To have the ideal biking experience in Glacier National Park, plan the visit for early summer.
What are the biking routes that are both accessible and safe for bikers to use in Glacier National Park?
The easiest and safest biking routes to use in Glacier National Park are Camas Road, Two Medicine Road, and McDonald Creek Bike Path. Both adult and children bikers can ride these routes as the trails are mostly flat and easy. For more advanced riders, the Going-to-the-Sun Road might be a challenging option as it stretches for 32 miles and includes steep hills to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet. This route also offers fantastic views such as McDonald Falls and Haystack Falls.
What are the main challenges of biking on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park?
A suitable biking route only for confident riders is the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, which includes a climb to Logan Pass with an elevation of 6,646 feet, steep hills, and two tunnels. The route stretches for 32 miles with varying weather conditions due to altitude. Thus, proper preparation for sudden shifts in temperature and weather conditions is critical if planning to bike on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Can beginners and children ride a bike in Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park allows children and beginners to ride bikes, with options such as Camas Road, Two Medicine Road, and McDonald Creek Bike Path. These routes mostly have flat trails and are easy enough for all bikers, including beginners and children. However, Going-to-the-Sun Road demands more riding skills due to its challenging nature, suitable for experienced riders. It is best recommended for children to bike with an accompanying adult with biking experience.
What kind of wildlife can be seen during a bike ride in Montana's Glacier National Park?
Some of the wildlife to watch for when biking in Montana's Glacier National Park are bears, deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and moose. Other animals such as eagles, hawks, and osprey, can be spotted while biking in the park. Bikers should keep a lookout for animals and keep a safe distance. It's best advised to avoid approaching animals, as they may react aggressively and attack you.
