Traveling the Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of Glacier National Park’s most unforgettable experiences. Winding for 50 miles through the heart of the park, this National Historic Landmark offers views of glacial-carved peaks, alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls and pristine mountain lakes. While visitors can drive the road themselves, one of the most memorable—and relaxing—ways to explore it is aboard a Red Bus Tour.
These iconic red buses are part of Glacier National Park’s history. Built between 1936 and 1939 by the White Motor Company of Cleveland, Ohio, the 25-foot-long vehicles feature rollback canvas tops and a door for each row, inviting passengers to take in the mountain air and unobstructed views. Each bus is driven by a “Jammer,” called such because of the distinctive “jamming” noise made when shifting the gears of the bus down the steep mountain road. The knowledgeable guides share stories about the park’s natural and cultural history while navigating its scenic, winding route.
The buses are colored a distinctive orange-red, chosen to mimic the color of the berries of mountain ash found throughout the park and Western Montana.
Along the journey, you’ll pass through landscapes shaped by time—towering peaks from the Lewis and Livingston ranges, ancient rock formations dating back 1.6 billion years, and waterfalls that trace the park’s rugged cliffs.
Red Bus Tours operate from June through mid-September and range from several hours to a full day. Each tour offers a different perspective of the park, with routes departing from multiple locations on the east and west sides.
To plan your tour or reserve a seat, visit Glacier National Park Lodges.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
June 22, 2009
Related: Glacier National Park, Guided Tours, Montana, Vacation
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