Going to the Sun

Sunrift Gorge. Sedimentary rocks (argillite) in Glacier National Park have distinctive green and red coloration which are seen here.

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The Going to the Sun Road runs east-west through the middle of the park and scales the Continental Divide at Logan Pass.  Along the 50-mile stretch there were unbelievable scenery, waterfalls and gorges, and numerous pull-offs so you could stop and enjoy the view.

Logan Pass is a popular visitor center which limits the number of visitors by having a small parking lot.  Since it was opening day for the center, the lot was already 2/3rds full at 9:00 AM.  When we left at noon and when we passed on our way back, the "Parking Lot Full" signs were out.   One of the main attractions at Logan Pass is the Hidden Lake Trail.

The Hidden Lake Trail is an easy 3-mile hike on a wood boardwalk, but snow covered over half of the trail.  Hiking boots were useless in the slushy snow so the uphill climb was difficult and slippery, but the downhill return was quick and fun.  Near the top of the trail we ran into a small group of mountain goats.  The Hidden Lake overlook was spectacular.