Goat Lick Overlook
Look for mountain goats from two short trails and overlooks along US Highway 2.
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An idea to explore—not a must-do.
The full road crossing depends on seasonal access—even in summer.
An idea to explore—not a must-do.
An idea to explore—not a must-do.
Natural Attraction
Goat Lick Overlook is a roadside stop along US Highway 2 where mountain goats are commonly seen near two short trails and overlooks. The site offers an easy viewing option, but sightings are not guaranteed; primitive restrooms are available and there is no drinking water.
MAKE ROOM FOR A MEMORABLE STOP
Is this stop worth your time?
Why go
- Family Friendly Notes
- The short overlook paths can suit a brief family stop, but supervise children near the water and keep everyone on designated viewing areas. Swift currents, slippery rocks, and logs can be dangerous.
- Attraction Type
- Wildlife overlook
When to go
- Best Time To Visit
- Year-round wildlife viewing; NPS lists the activity for day, dawn and dusk. Mountain goats are commonly seen at the lick but sightings are never guaranteed, so treat it as a short stop, not an appointment.
Getting there and doing it
- How To Get There
- Goat Lick Overlook is along US Highway 2, approximately 30 miles (48.2 km) from Glacier National Park’s West Entrance. It is not on Going-to-the-Sun Road and does not depend on Logan Pass opening.
- Nearby Facilities
- Primitive restrooms are available. There is no drinking water at the overlook.
Getting there & parking
When to go
What you will experience
Facilities, fees & access
- Accessibility
- NPS lists two approximately 400-foot trails to overlooks: one asphalt and one using a natural paving material. A short paved path leads to an observation deck.
Safety
Location
Frequently asked questions
Will I definitely see mountain goats here?
No. NPS says goats are commonly seen at Goat Lick Overlook, but sightings are not guaranteed or necessarily daily.
Is this overlook on Going-to-the-Sun Road?
No. Goat Lick Overlook is along US Highway 2, about 30 miles from the West Entrance.
Can I get close to the goats for photos?
No. Keep at least 25 yards (75 feet) from mountain goats.
Are the walks difficult?
NPS lists two trails of about 400 feet to overlooks: one asphalt and one using a natural paving material. A short paved path leads to an observation deck.
Can I bring drinking water from the overlook facilities?
No. NPS notes that the restrooms are somewhat primitive and that there is no drinking water.
Is it safe to climb down toward the water?
Stay on designated viewing areas. Swift currents, slippery rocks, and logs can be dangerous, especially for children.
More at Glacier National Park
Pyramid Peak
Granite peak sharpened by glacial ice; scrambling to Pyramid Peak from Pyramid Pass.
Grace Lake
Grace Lake: glacial cirque lake at 3,966 ft, reached via the Logging Lake Trail.
Rising Sun Picnic Area
A practical east-side pause where Glacier’s mountains meet the prairies.
Two Medicine Picnic Area
Two Medicine’s lake and peaks reward a future picnic; road access is closed as of September 9, 2026.
Monument Falls
215 ft waterfall fed by glacial meltwater; view from Avalanche Lake shore.
Lake McDonald
A west-side lakeshore pause: choose Apgar or Lake McDonald Lodge, then leave room for a separate walk or boat outing.
Sources
- National Park Service
- YourNPGuide Editorial
Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.
Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.