Glacier National Park: Going to the Sun Road

Aug. 30-31, 2004

The weather finally improved and we headed west on the Going to the Sun Road, which is the only road all the way through the park.

Lake MacDonald, looking east toward Logan Pass and the continental divide.

Looking back down MacDonald canyon as we approach the continental divide. The u-shaped nature of the valley, showing evidence of glacial erosion, is very distinct.
 

A ground squirrel looking for a handout. These little beggars are found everywhere. No, we don't feed them. They need to learn to eat naturally, so they don't starve after all the people are gone.
 

Hidden lake, above Logan Pass. This view is about a mile and half walk from the Logan Pass visitor center; this walk is very popular - meaning there are a lot of people on the trail.
 

Mountain goats like this area also. They seem used to people, as long as you don't make sudden or threatening moves. This one passed by me, about ten feet away.
 

A ewe with her lamb. Note the little horns on the lamb.
 

A mother ptarmigan. She had babies nearby, so she stood her ground and didn't leave them.
 

A marmot with a mouthful of grass. They hibernate all winter, so they need to fatten themselves up during the summer for the long winter's sleep.
 

St. Mary Lake on the eastern side of the park. This view is looking west, towards the continental divide.
 

For people whose vehicles are too long to go over the road (they have a 21 ft length limit) or who prefer a narrated tour, these red buses are an option. The top rolls back so you get a good view of the mountains.