What is the best overlook in Glacier National Park?

Logan Pass is the best overall overlook — at 6,646 feet on the Continental Divide, it delivers panoramic views of the Garden Wall, Clements Mountain, and Reynolds Mountain with no hiking required. For the single most iconic photo, Wild Goose Island Overlook on Saint Mary Lake is Montana's most photographed scene.

Do you need a permit to reach the overlooks on Going-to-the-Sun Road?

During peak season (late May through early September), a timed entry permit is required to drive GTSR between Avalanche Creek and the Saint Mary area. Permits cost $2 per vehicle at Recreation.gov and sell out quickly. You can avoid the permit window by entering before 6 AM or after 3 PM (westbound). The free park shuttle does not require a permit.

Where can I see a glacier from the road in Glacier National Park?

Jackson Glacier Overlook on the east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road is the best drive-up spot to see a named glacier. From the Many Glacier area at Swiftcurrent Lake, you can see Grinnell Glacier and other ice on the upper slopes. As of 2026, the park has fewer than 25 active named glaciers remaining, down from 150 in 1850.

What is the entrance fee for Glacier National Park in 2026?

Per NPS.gov, the entrance fee is $35 per vehicle in summer (May-October) and $25 per vehicle in winter. Individual entry on foot or bicycle is $20. Annual park pass is $70. The America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass ($80) covers Glacier and all federal recreation sites for one year. The park does not accept cash.

Which overlooks in Glacier National Park do not require a GTSR permit?

Goat Lick Overlook (on US-2 near Essex) and the Swiftcurrent Lake area at Many Glacier (via Many Glacier Road off US-89) do not require a GTSR timed entry permit. Wild Goose Island and Sun Point are on the east side of GTSR and may be accessible without a permit outside the permit hours (before 6 AM or after 4 PM in summer).

Hidden Lake Overlook Glacier National Park

Best Scenic Overlooks in Glacier National Park

ByAndy Smith April 1, 2026July 10, 2026

By Andy Smith · Updated July 10, 2026 · Fact-checked

No vehicle reservation is required to reach Going-to-the-Sun Road overlooks in 2026. Logan Pass private parking is limited to 3 hours July 1 through September 7, and the ticketed shuttle is the best option for longer hikes.

Andy Smith

Hello! I'm Andy Smith, and my world revolves around exploring the great outdoors, particularly the majestic national parks. From the towering peaks to serene lakes, I've hiked, camped, and embraced the beauty of nature. Realizing the gap in information for such trips, I took it upon myself to guide fellow enthusiasts. My goal? To help you experience the joy and tranquility of nature, just as I have.