Logan Pass, Glacier National Park - Image 1
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Logan Pass

4.8
·245 reviews·, United States

Gateway to Glacier's alpine wonders, offering dramatic mountain vistas, iconic hikes, and abundant wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise

Secure parking & magical light

CrowdLow
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Logan Pass, Glacier National Park - Image 1

Logan Pass

Best Time

Sunrise

Secure parking & magical light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Gateway to Glacier's alpine wonders, offering dramatic mountain vistas, iconic hikes, and abundant wildlife.

4.8
(245 reviews)

"Logan Pass is truly the crown jewel of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive before 7 AM or use the park shuttle to guarantee parking at Logan Pass .

🐐 Wildlife Encounters

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are common; keep a safe distance and never feed them .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Hidden Lake Overlook Trail

Logan Pass

A relatively short hike offering wildflowers, mountain goats, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Highline Trail

Highline Trail

Logan Pass

Iconic trail with stunning alpine scenery, offering dramatic drop-offs and expansive vistas.

Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings

Logan Pass area

Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep, especially near the visitor center and trails.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Parking Spot

Logan Pass parking fills up extremely fast, often by 7 AM in summer.Instagram Arrive before sunrise for a guaranteed spot, or utilize the free park shuttle from Apgar or St. Mary Visitor Centers to avoid the parking hassle and enjoy the Going-to-the-Sun Road.Instagram

Passes & Preparedness for Your Visit

Access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, including Logan Pass, often requires a vehicle reservation pass during peak season. Check official park websites for current requirements and book well in advance. Be prepared for changing mountain weather and bring layers, even in summer.Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunrise
Why
Secure parking & magical light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Panicking when these hikers were walking straight in front of a bear without knowing😳 #glaciernationalpark #loganspass #Montana #bear #hikers
@farmfitlife
71.6K likes • 1.1M views

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive before 7 AM or use the park shuttle to guarantee parking at Logan Pass.Instagram

🐐 Wildlife Encounters

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are common; keep a safe distance and never feed them.Instagram+1

Highline Trail is both stunning and terrifying #glaciernationalpark #loganpass #highlinetrail
@312vegans
43.7K likes • 488.1K views
The Logan Pass parking lot has 236 parking spots and is often full by 7 am in the summertime. If you are planning to go on a long hike departing from Logan Pass, please park at the Apgar or St. Mary Visitor Center and take the free park shuttle up to the pass. This leaves the parking lot open to visitors planning a quick stop to Logan Pass. More turnover means more people get to experience this ...
glaciernps
6.9K likes • 248.4K views

⛰️ Conquer Your Fears

If you have a fear of heights, take it slow on trails like Highline; friends can help! Instagram

📸 Capture the Night Sky

Visit after midnight for incredible, light-pollution-free stargazing.Reddit

What you just might see in Glacier National Park 🐏 These guys literally just rolled right up on us 😲 Logan Pass Visitor Center 📍 It’s quite common for the wildlife to frequent this area as it’s the highest point of the Going-to-the-Sun Road at almost 7,000ft 🏔️ Your chances of seeing Mountain Goat and Big Horn Sheep (Ram) goes up greatly if you hang out up there for sunset 🌅 Share this with...
wanderlusttravelcouple
26.3K likes • 750.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Beat the Parking Rush

Arrive before 7 AM or use the park shuttle to guarantee parking at Logan Pass.Instagram

🐐 Wildlife Encounters

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are common; keep a safe distance and never feed them.Instagram+1

⛰️ Conquer Your Fears

If you have a fear of heights, take it slow on trails like Highline; friends can help! Instagram

📸 Capture the Night Sky

Visit after midnight for incredible, light-pollution-free stargazing.Reddit

🥾 Trail Prep

Even short walks offer amazing views; wear sturdy shoes and bring water.Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(245 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking beauty and dramatic mountain scenery at Logan Pass, calling it a 'crown jewel.' The opportunity for wildlife sightings, particularly mountain goats and bighorn sheep, is a major draw. However, the extreme parking challenges and the need for advance reservation passes are frequently cited as significant drawbacks.

"What a PLACE!!! Absolutely stunning. Be sure to plan ahead and get the right passes. You need a pass to access the road and parking fills up fast. But the gorgeous hikes, views and wildlife sightings are unlike any others. It’s worth it to get up there early and watch the sunrise!"

Rachel Raineri

"Beautiful area for hiking and sightseeing! Driving is a little steep and road is narrow. Parking is hard to get in the day time."

Julian Markov

"The short (about 3 miles round-trip) hike captures the majestic beauty of Glacier NP. More often than not, Bearhat Mountain & Hidden Lake are graced by the iconic mountain sheep with pure white coats. The toughest part of the trip is finding a parking spot at Logan Pass. Best plan is get to Logan Pass before sunrise or simply roll the dice. One plan is drop one couple off, return in 1.5 hours, and second couple takes the hike and pictures."

Lester Kozlowski

What People Like

Stunning mountain views
Wildlife sightings
Iconic hikes

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Crowds
Reservation requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Logan Pass is located at the summit of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. You can drive your own vehicle, but be aware that parking is extremely limited and fills up very early.Instagram Alternatively, you can utilize the free park shuttle system from designated visitor centers like Apgar or St. Mary to reach Logan Pass.Instagram

The Going-to-the-Sun Road, including access to Logan Pass, is typically open from late June or early July through mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for current road status and opening dates.Reddit

To avoid traffic and parking issues, aim to arrive at Logan Pass before 7 AM, especially during peak season. Using the park shuttle is another excellent strategy to bypass road congestion and parking woes.Instagram

Vehicles over 20 feet long and wider than 8 feet are prohibited on certain sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, including the stretch leading to Logan Pass. Check park regulations for specific vehicle size restrictions.

Yes, Glacier National Park offers a free shuttle service that operates along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, with stops at Logan Pass. This is a highly recommended option for visitors to avoid parking challenges.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

During peak season, a vehicle reservation pass is often required to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, which includes Logan Pass. These passes are limited and should be booked in advance through recreation.gov. Check the park's official website for the most up-to-date information on reservation requirements.Reddit

The Logan Pass Visitor Center typically operates daily from late June through early October, from approximately 9 AM to 5 PM. Hours can vary, so it's best to confirm with the official Glacier National Park website before your visit.

There is an entrance fee to Glacier National Park, which covers access to Logan Pass. As of recent information, the fee is per vehicle and valid for seven days. Vehicle reservation passes may be an additional requirement during certain periods.Reddit

Vehicle reservation passes for the Going-to-the-Sun Road are typically purchased online in advance. On-site availability is extremely limited, if available at all. It's crucial to secure your pass well before your trip.Reddit

Without the required vehicle reservation pass during peak season, you will likely be denied entry to the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor, including Logan Pass. Plan ahead and secure your pass early.Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The most popular hikes from Logan Pass include the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (3 miles roundtrip) and the Highline Trail (15 miles one-way, or shorter out-and-back sections). Both offer spectacular views and opportunities for wildlife sightings.Instagram+1

The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is considered moderate. It has some elevation gain and can be rocky in parts, but it's generally manageable for most visitors. The views at the overlook are well worth the effort.Reddit

Logan Pass is a prime location for spotting mountain goats and bighorn sheep. You might also see marmots, ground squirrels, and if you're very lucky, bears.Instagram+1 Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.TikTok

Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential. Bring rain gear, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and plenty of water, even for shorter hikes.Instagram

Yes, there are restrooms available at the Logan Pass Visitor Center. It's advisable to use them before embarking on longer hikes, as facilities are limited on the trails.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire area around Logan Pass offers incredible photo opportunities. The overlooks along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail, and the Highline Trail provide stunning mountain vistas. The visitor center area itself is also picturesque.TikTok

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. However, the midday sun can also be beautiful, especially when highlighting the alpine meadows. For night photography, visiting after midnight offers a completely dark sky.Reddit

Yes, wildlife sightings are common, especially mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Bring a telephoto lens if you want to capture detailed shots from a safe distance.Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain landscapes. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions or long exposures, especially for night sky photography.Reddit

The biggest challenge is often the crowds and limited parking, which can make it difficult to set up for specific shots. Weather can also change rapidly, so be prepared for various conditions. The sheer scale of the landscape can also be challenging to capture effectively.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Logan Pass offers incredible natural beauty that can captivate children, but requires careful planning. The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is a good option for families, as it's relatively short and offers a high chance of seeing mountain goats and bighorn sheep.Instagram The visitor center itself provides educational exhibits that can engage younger minds.

Be prepared for the altitude and potential weather changes, which can affect children. Bring plenty of snacks and water, and dress kids in layers. Consider using the park shuttle to avoid the stress of finding parking, allowing more time for exploration and less for logistical challenges. The sheer scale of the mountains and the possibility of wildlife sightings are often highlights for kids.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For avid hikers, Logan Pass is a dream destination. The Highline Trail is a must-do, offering unparalleled alpine scenery and a true sense of adventure.Instagram+1 Even if you don't hike the full 15 miles, exploring even a portion of it provides incredible rewards. The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is also a fantastic option for stunning views and wildlife encounters.Reddit

Remember to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out. Pack essentials like bear spray (and know how to use it), plenty of water, and high-energy snacks. The Going-to-the-Sun Road itself is a scenic drive, but the true magic lies in exploring the trails that branch off from Logan Pass.

📸 Photographers

Logan Pass is a photographer's paradise, offering dramatic mountain vistas, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide the most spectacular light for landscape photography.Reddit The Hidden Lake Overlook and various pull-offs along the Going-to-the-Sun Road are prime spots for capturing sweeping panoramas.

For wildlife photography, patience is key. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are often visible near the visitor center and along the trails.Instagram A telephoto lens is highly recommended to capture these animals from a safe distance. Don't forget to consider night photography; the lack of light pollution makes Logan Pass an exceptional location for astrophotography.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Going-to-the-Sun Road

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel and the primary artery to Logan Pass. This iconic 50-mile road winds through the heart of Glacier National Park, offering unparalleled scenic beauty. Due to its popularity and narrow, winding nature, vehicle reservations are often required during peak season, in addition to the park entrance fee.Reddit These reservations are crucial for accessing the road and its popular trailheads, including Logan Pass.Instagram

Travelers should be aware of vehicle size restrictions; oversized vehicles are prohibited on certain sections. The road's elevation gain is significant, with steep grades and hairpin turns. It's advisable to drive cautiously, use lower gears on descents, and pull over at designated pullouts to allow faster traffic to pass. The views from the road itself are spectacular, making frequent stops a must for photography and soaking in the scenery.TikTok

Shuttle services are a fantastic alternative to driving your own vehicle. The free park shuttle system operates along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, providing access to Logan Pass and other key points of interest. This not only alleviates parking stress but also allows you to fully enjoy the views without the worry of navigating the road yourself.Instagram Always check the park's official website for the latest information on road status, reservation requirements, and shuttle schedules.

Hiking Adventures from Logan Pass

Logan Pass serves as the gateway to some of Glacier National Park's most celebrated hikes. The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail is a relatively short, moderate hike (approximately 3 miles roundtrip) that leads to a stunning overlook of Hidden Lake. Along this trail, visitors frequently encounter mountain goats and bighorn sheep, making it a prime spot for wildlife viewing.Instagram+1 The trail is well-maintained, though it can be busy, especially during midday.

For a more challenging and iconic experience, the Highline Trail begins at Logan Pass. This trail is renowned for its dramatic cliffside path, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. While the full Highline Trail is a 15-mile point-to-point hike, many visitors opt for shorter out-and-back sections to experience its grandeur without committing to the entire distance.Instagram The trail can be exposed in places, and some hikers with a fear of heights may find it challenging, but the unparalleled scenery is often described as worth the effort.Instagram

When planning your hikes from Logan Pass, remember that mountain weather can be unpredictable. Always be prepared with layers, water, and snacks. Check the weather forecast before you go and be aware of trail conditions. The Logan Pass Visitor Center provides maps and information, and rangers can offer valuable insights into trail safety and current conditions.

Wildlife Encounters at High Altitudes

Logan Pass, situated at nearly 7,000 feet, is a prime location for observing alpine wildlife. The most commonly sighted animals are mountain goats and bighorn sheep, often seen grazing on the steep slopes or near the visitor center and trailheads.Instagram+1 These majestic creatures are well-adapted to the high-altitude environment and are a highlight for many visitors.

It's crucial to remember that these are wild animals, and maintaining a safe distance is paramount. Never approach, feed, or attempt to pet wildlife. Feeding wildlife can cause them harm and habituates them to human presence, which can lead to dangerous encounters for both animals and people.TikTok Binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens are excellent tools for observing wildlife from a safe and respectful distance.

While mountain goats and bighorn sheep are the stars of the show, keep an eye out for other creatures like marmots, pikas, and various bird species. In rarer instances, visitors might spot larger mammals like black bears or grizzly bears in the vicinity. If you encounter a bear, remain calm, make noise, and slowly back away. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.TikTok