Going to the Sun Road History
August 15 @ 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Jennifer Birnel, Montana History Portal Director
August 15th at 8:00 am.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is billed as a historic narrow, winding road with hairpin turns and sheer cliffs offering amazing views of glacial valleys, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and wildlife. This is all true, but have you ever wondered why or how the road was built? In a park set aside to preserve nature, why was a road built through the center of it? What did it take to make a road of this magnitude possible and who built it? Students will examine the road’s construction, which began in the early 20th century, and its significance as a marvel of engineering and a symbol of human ingenuity in the face of challenging terrain. Through a mix of historical analysis, architectural study, and environmental considerations, students will gain a deeper understanding of the Going-to-the-Sun Road’s legacy as a unique intersection of nature, culture, and innovation.
Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Field Camp
Itinerary: (subject to change due to trail closures and weather) We will start the day at 8 a.m. at Field Camp to discuss some of the history of the road, view images, and maps of the proposed routes and learn a little about the process. Then we will drive over the highway making stops at key locations to view camp sites, road engineering feats, and take in the beautiful views the builders intended for visitors to see. Lunch will be at Logan pass with time to hike a short distance on the highline trail to view the road as the workers saw it coming together. We will continue down the east side of road with a couple more viewing stops before traveling back to Field Camp by 4 p.m.
Food: Please bring a trail lunch, dinner, plenty of water and snacks for the day.
Park Entrance Fees: Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the course. These can be purchased online at: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74280.
Academic Credit: Please see our ‘2026 Academic Credit’ link on our website to learn about OPI credits for our courses.
Equipment: You will receive a Field Camp gear list once you register. Most importantly are comfortable hiking shoes, at least 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen. Weather can be varied, especially at the high elevations of Logan Pass, so please be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially warm layers.
Physical Requirements: Easy. This course will primarily be driving to different locations and lecture based.
Recommended Reading
- The Going-to-the-Sun Road: A History of the Road and the People Who Built It by David J. Kile
- Glacier National Park: A History by Thomas J. Elpel