Upper McDonald Creek Overlook – Trail of the Cedars loop from West Glacier

The Upper McDonald Creek Overlook – Trail of the Cedars loop from West Glacier is one of those road cycling routes that truly delivers on scenery, offering a moderate 35.7-mile (57.4 km) ride with 1029 feet (314 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 41 minutes. This route is perfect for cyclists with good fitness looking to experience the stunning landscapes around West Glacier, particularly if you can catch the unique car-free window on Going-to-the-Sun Road.

What to expect on Upper McDonald Creek Overlook – Trail of the Cedars loop from West Glacier

As you pedal this route, you'll journey through dense coniferous forests, with the tumbling cascades of McDonald Creek often in view. The terrain is mostly well-paved and easy to ride, offering expansive valleys and the majestic foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Keep an eye out for Red Rock Point, a scenic pullout along Going-to-the-Sun Road, which provides striking views of the creek rushing through carved channels. While the Trail of the Cedars itself is a beautiful boardwalk hiking trail and not accessible by bike, this road cycling route allows you to explore the surrounding area and its incredible natural features. Expect a steady, moderate effort suitable for those comfortable with longer distances and some climbing.

Planning your visit

A key highlight for road cyclists in this area is the opportunity to ride portions of the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road before it fully opens to vehicle traffic, typically from mid-April through early June. This