Wild Goose Island Overlook
An iconic, easily accessible viewpoint in Glacier National Park offering breathtaking views of Wild Goose Island on Saint Mary Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Wild Goose Island Overlook
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, easily accessible viewpoint in Glacier National Park offering breathtaking views of Wild Goose Island on Saint Mary Lake.
"This is one of the best places in the park for amazing pictures. Right off the road and easy to access."
🎯 Best Photo Vantage Point
Walk to the top of the pull-off for wider, gentler paths and even flat boulder slabs for superior views and photos.
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
No hiking needed! This is a convenient pull-off on Going-to-the-Sun Road for quick, stunning views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild Goose Island
Saint Mary Lake
The quintessential view of a small island set against majestic mountains and deep blue lake waters. A must-see for any Glacier visitor.
Sunrise/Sunset Views
Overlook point
Catch the golden hour light painting the island and lake. A truly magical experience for photographers and nature lovers.
Iconic Photo Opportunity
Pull-off viewpoint
This easily accessible spot offers postcard-perfect views, making it one of the most photographed locations in Glacier.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Shot
Easy Access, Big Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Best Photo Vantage Point
Walk to the top of the pull-off for wider, gentler paths and even flat boulder slabs for superior views and photos.
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
No hiking needed! This is a convenient pull-off on Going-to-the-Sun Road for quick, stunning views.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise and sunset offer the most breathtaking light for capturing the iconic island and lake.
📸 Capture the Classic
This is one of the most photographed spots in Glacier National Park, featured on many stickers and postcards.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Best Photo Vantage Point
Walk to the top of the pull-off for wider, gentler paths and even flat boulder slabs for superior views and photos.
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
No hiking needed! This is a convenient pull-off on Going-to-the-Sun Road for quick, stunning views.
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Sunrise and sunset offer the most breathtaking light for capturing the iconic island and lake.
📸 Capture the Classic
This is one of the most photographed spots in Glacier National Park, featured on many stickers and postcards.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Wild Goose Island Overlook for its stunning, iconic scenery and easy accessibility right off the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It's a must-stop for photos, especially during sunrise and sunset, offering breathtaking views of the island against a mountainous backdrop. Some note that it can get crowded, but the sheer beauty makes it worthwhile.
"If you are driving from the east, park wherever, but don't try to view from the eastern-most vantage point. Instead, continue walking to near the top of the pull-off and you'll not only find a wide but gentle path, which allows you to get the best view and photos. Also, there are some large, flat slabs of boulder you can stand on and get an even better view."
Jim Lange
"Nice little pullover at the road side to view this iconic glacier national park feature thats seen in almost every sticker, postcard etc. The area overlooks the wildgoose island and is best viewed in the morning. Out of the world views!"
Nowshin Nawar
"Great place to stop off of the going to the sun road to see views of st mary lake"
Erik Covert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wild Goose Island Overlook is conveniently located directly off the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. It's a popular pull-off, so keep an eye out for signs.
Yes, there is a roadside pull-off for parking. It can get busy, especially during peak season, so arriving early or late might be beneficial.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road, including access to the Wild Goose Island Overlook, is typically closed in winter due to snow. Check the park's official website for seasonal road status.
The pull-off is generally accessible for most vehicles, including RVs, as it's a roadside viewpoint. However, be mindful of other traffic on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Whether you're coming from the east or west on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the overlook is clearly marked. Driving from the east might offer a slightly different perspective as you approach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need a standard entrance pass to Glacier National Park to access the Wild Goose Island Overlook. There are no separate tickets for the overlook itself.
The only fee is the general entrance fee for Glacier National Park. The overlook itself is free to access once inside the park.
The overlook is accessible whenever the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open. It's an outdoor viewpoint, so it's accessible during daylight hours.
Yes, during peak season (typically late May to early September), a vehicle reservation is required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor. Check the NPS website for current requirements.
If you do not have a vehicle reservation for the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you may still be able to access areas like the Wild Goose Island Overlook via the park's shuttle system, if it is operating.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Early mornings can also provide softer light and fewer people.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating the island. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Experiment with different heights. Standing on the larger boulders near the top of the pull-off can offer unique perspectives.
Absolutely! The Wild Goose Island Overlook is a popular spot for engagement and even wedding photos due to its stunning scenery.
Be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Avoid stepping on fragile vegetation. The light can change quickly, so be ready to capture the moment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes here to take photos and enjoy the view. If you're a keen photographer, you might stay longer, especially during sunrise or sunset.
No, there is no trail to walk on or around Wild Goose Island itself. It's a viewpoint to admire the island from the shore of Saint Mary Lake.
Nearby attractions include Jackson Glacier Overlook, Sun Point, and various points along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, such as Logan Pass and Lake McDonald.
Restroom facilities are not typically located directly at the Wild Goose Island Overlook itself. You'll find restrooms at larger visitor centers or picnic areas along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
While wildlife can be seen anywhere in Glacier National Park, this overlook is primarily known for its scenic beauty rather than specific wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out, though!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours when kids are most alert. While the overlook itself is simple, the drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers many other short walks and viewpoints that can be combined for a family-friendly itinerary. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as conditions can be exposed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape and a tripod for low-light conditions. Don't be afraid to explore the pull-off area; standing on the larger boulders can offer unique perspectives. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and light. The iconic view is best captured when the sun is low, casting a warm glow on the island and mountains. Many photographers also find success in the early morning mist, which can add an ethereal quality to the scene.
🚗 Road Trip Warriors
+1Factor in a brief stop here as part of your scenic drive. It’s a great spot to break up the journey and appreciate the scale of Saint Mary Lake and the surrounding peaks. Remember that parking can be limited, so be patient or consider visiting during off-peak hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic View: Understanding Wild Goose Island
The overlook provides an easily accessible vantage point for visitors to capture this classic scene. Unlike many national park vistas that require significant hiking, the Wild Goose Island Overlook is a simple roadside stop. This accessibility makes it a popular destination for photographers, families, and anyone wanting to witness one of Glacier's most celebrated views without a strenuous trek. The ease of access, combined with the sheer beauty of the landscape, solidifies its status as a must-visit spot.
Many visitors are drawn to the overlook specifically for its photographic potential. The interplay of light and shadow on the island and the surrounding mountains changes throughout the day, offering unique opportunities for stunning shots. Whether you're a professional photographer or just snapping a quick selfie, the view is guaranteed to impress. The consistent popularity of this spot highlights its enduring appeal as a quintessential representation of Glacier's wild beauty.
+1Navigating the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road is highly regulated during the peak season (typically late May through early September). A vehicle reservation system is in place, requiring visitors to obtain a timed entry permit in addition to their park entrance pass. This system is designed to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion, ensuring a more enjoyable experience for everyone. It's crucial to check the official Glacier National Park website for the most up-to-date information on reservation requirements and road status before your visit.
For those without a vehicle reservation, or for those who prefer not to drive, Glacier National Park offers a free shuttle system that operates along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This shuttle is an excellent alternative, allowing you to hop on and off at various points of interest, including the Wild Goose Island Overlook, without the stress of parking or navigating the narrow, winding road. The shuttle service is a fantastic way to experience the park's beauty responsibly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit