
Oberlin Bend Overlook
Spectacular mountain vistas and wildlife viewing at this popular overlook on Glacier's Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch golden hour

Oberlin Bend Overlook
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch golden hour

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Spectacular mountain vistas and wildlife viewing at this popular overlook on Glacier's Going-to-the-Sun Road.
"Breathtaking views from this pullout and short overlook trail right before or after Logan Pass."

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited; arrive before 6:30 AM or after 4 PM to secure a spot.
🐐 Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for mountain goats; they're often spotted near the overlook.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Oberlin Bend Overlook
Breathtaking views of valleys and majestic mountains, especially stunning during sunset.

Mountain Goat Encounters
Near Oberlin Bend Overlook
A fair chance to spot mountain goats, adding an exciting element to your visit.

Cloudy Day Magic
Oberlin Bend Overlook
Experience the unique beauty of driving through or viewing from above the clouds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything at Oberlin Bend
Wildlife & Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited; arrive before 6:30 AM or after 4 PM to secure a spot.
🐐 Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for mountain goats; they're often spotted near the overlook.
☁️ Embrace the Clouds
Cloudy days offer a unique, beautiful perspective of the landscape.
🚶♀️ Short, Scenic Trail
A brief overlook trail offers stunning views, accessible for many.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited; arrive before 6:30 AM or after 4 PM to secure a spot.
🐐 Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for mountain goats; they're often spotted near the overlook.
☁️ Embrace the Clouds
Cloudy days offer a unique, beautiful perspective of the landscape.
🚶♀️ Short, Scenic Trail
A brief overlook trail offers stunning views, accessible for many.
🐻 Carry Bear Spray
Always be prepared for wildlife encounters in Glacier National Park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Oberlin Bend Overlook for its breathtaking panoramic mountain views and the exciting chance to spot mountain goats. The accessibility and unique beauty, even on cloudy days, make it a highly recommended stop along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Parking can be a challenge, but many find it well worth the wait.
"This is a good scenic point very near to Logan pass. A small parking place is available here. If parking is available ensure stop here. Have an overlook at valleys and mountains. Many trails start from this place. You have a fair chance to see mountain goats here."
Sukumar shah
"Scenic view of the mountain n sunset viewing"
Muhfaziah Mustaffa
"Breathtaking views from this pullout and short overlook trail right before or after Logan Pass depending on your direction. Parking pains were worth the Mountain Goat sighting and views!"
Seth Husk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oberlin Bend Overlook is located on the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, just before or after Logan Pass, depending on your direction of travel. It's a popular pull-off, so keep an eye out for the signs.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically fully open from late June or early July through mid-October, weather permitting. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for current road status and closures before your visit.
Parking at Oberlin Bend Overlook is very limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak season. If Logan Pass parking is full, people often park here and walk. Arriving very early or late in the day is your best bet.
Yes, Oberlin Bend Overlook is a great alternative if Logan Pass parking is full. Many visitors use it as a starting point or a scenic stop when the main pass area is congested.
Yes, Oberlin Bend Overlook is noted as being wheelchair accessible, making it a great stop for visitors with mobility considerations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Glacier National Park entrance pass is required to access Oberlin Bend Overlook and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. You can purchase passes online in advance or at park entrance stations.
While Oberlin Bend Overlook itself doesn't require a separate reservation, access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road may require a vehicle reservation during peak season. Check the NPS website for the most current reservation requirements.
Oberlin Bend Overlook is an outdoor scenic viewpoint and is accessible whenever the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open. There are no specific operating hours for the overlook itself.
The cost to visit Oberlin Bend Overlook is covered by your Glacier National Park entrance fee. As of recent information, a 7-day vehicle pass costs $35.
If vehicle reservations are in effect for the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you will need one to access Oberlin Bend Overlook during those times. However, if you are entering the park before the reservation period begins or after it ends, a reservation may not be necessary. Always verify with NPS.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Oberlin Bend Overlook offers stunning panoramic views of valleys and mountains. It's a prime spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, and you have a good chance of spotting mountain goats.
Yes, several trails begin near Oberlin Bend Overlook, including access points to popular routes. It's a great starting point for exploring the alpine areas of Glacier National Park.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Oberlin Bend Overlook.
Absolutely! Mountain goats are frequently sighted at or near Oberlin Bend Overlook, making it a popular spot for wildlife viewing. Remember to keep a safe distance.
When it's cloudy, Oberlin Bend Overlook can offer a unique and beautiful experience, with the opportunity to drive through or view the landscape from above the clouds. It creates a dramatic, ethereal atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The overlook itself provides incredible panoramic shots. For unique perspectives, consider capturing the winding Going-to-the-Sun Road or the dramatic cloud formations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, especially for mountain goats.
The overlook is perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes, dramatic sunsets, and potential wildlife. The changing weather, including clouds, also presents unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning and late evening light (golden hour) provides the most flattering and dramatic light for landscape photography at Oberlin Bend.
Always maintain a safe and respectful distance from wildlife, especially mountain goats. Use a telephoto lens to get close-up shots without disturbing them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when visibility is best for spotting animals. If your children are interested in photography, this is a great spot for them to practice capturing the grand landscapes. The accessibility of the overlook also makes it a good option for families with strollers or those who have difficulty with longer walks.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots of mountain goats. Be prepared for rapidly changing light conditions and weather. The overlook's accessibility means you can set up your tripod relatively easily, but be mindful of other visitors.
🚗 Road Trippers
Given the limited parking, it's wise to plan your visit strategically. If you're heading west, it's a great stop after Logan Pass. If heading east, it's a beautiful introduction to the alpine section. Be prepared for potential traffic and always have your camera ready for spontaneous photo opportunities, whether it's a sweeping landscape or a wildlife sighting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road is an experience in itself, with numerous pull-offs and overlooks like Oberlin Bend providing opportunities to pause and soak in the views. Be prepared for slow-moving traffic, especially during busy periods. Many visitors choose to drive the entire length, while others focus on specific sections. The road's elevation means weather can change rapidly, so pack layers and be ready for anything from sunshine to fog to snow, even in summer.
Key Takeaways for Driving the Road:
* Check Road Status: Always verify opening and closing dates and times.
* Vehicle Reservations: Understand if and when these are required for your visit.
* Patience is Key: Expect delays and take your time to enjoy the scenery.
* Pack Accordingly: Be prepared for varied weather conditions.
Wildlife Spotting at Oberlin Bend
While mountain goats are the most common sighting, keep your eyes peeled for other park inhabitants. Bears are also present in Glacier National Park, so it's essential to carry bear spray and know how to use it. Following park guidelines for wildlife viewing, such as never feeding animals and keeping a minimum distance, ensures a positive and safe experience for everyone.
Tips for Wildlife Viewing:
* Bring Binoculars or a Telephoto Lens: Enhance your viewing experience without disturbing the animals.
* Be Quiet and Patient: Wildlife is more likely to appear when it's calm and undisturbed.
* Never Feed Wildlife: This can lead to dangerous habituation and health problems for the animals.
* Stay on Trails: Avoid venturing off-path, especially in areas where wildlife is known to frequent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit