Going-to-the-Sun Opens Early: Visitors React to Glacier’s Iconic Road
In this special episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman hits the road — literally — to capture the joy, surprise, and awe of visitors experiencing Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road on its opening day on June 18th, 2025. From families who extended their trip to lucky travelers who scored last-minute tickets, hear what it's like to witness Glacier’s alpine grandeur for the first time.
Guests share stories of wildlife sightings, reservation system wins, and first impressions of Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, and Avalanche Lake. Whether you're a Glacier veteran or planning your first trip, this episode captures the magic of one of America’s most iconic roads.
As of July 1st, 2025, Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open for the summer — that’s all 50 miles from West Glacier to St. Mary, including Logan Pass and Rising Sun. Timed-entry vehicle reservations are still required on the West Entrance side during peak hours – that's 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. - through September 28th. No reservations are needed to enter from the east side at St. Mary. A Summer shuttle service is now running daily between Apgar and St. Mary starting July 1st.
For ongoing updates on road conditions, trail access, wildlife closures, or sudden weather changes, visit the official National Park Service Glacier page at https://nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit — and remember to always be prepared for chilly, alpine conditions even in July.
Read Taylor's full article here - https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2025/jun/18/glacier-national-park-visitors-delighted-by-full-sun-road-opening/
July 1, 2025
MORE EPISODES
No Drama, Just Llamas: Hiking the Montana Backcountry with Some Unlikely Guides
Daily Inter Lake reporter Hailey Smalley follows Jamie Rolfing and his family as they reopen their 500-acre Great Northern Ranch to the public, inviting visitors to experience the quiet companionship of llamas along forest trails. Recapture the magic of slowing down, listening to the trees, and letting these quirky animals lead the way.
Read the full article - A family llama-cy: Couple takes the lead on family trekking business
July 28, 2025
Wolves in the Crosshairs, Veto Overridden, and Bigfork Bridge Rebuild Begins
Reporter Taylor Inman breaks down the major headlines shaping Northwest Montana this week. Montana’s wolf population is back in the spotlight as officials propose looser hunting and trapping rules — sparking debate across the state. Lawmakers successfully override Gov. Gianforte’s veto of a bill to reimburse counties for housing inmates awaiting mental health care. Plus, construction is set to begin on a long-awaited replacement for the Sportsman’s Bridge in Bigfork.
Read more from this week’s show:
Proposed regulation changes aim to increase Montana wolf harvest
State will reimburse jails holding inmates awaiting mental health evaluations
Work on Sportsman's Bridge to begin next month
A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.
July 26, 2025
Montana Festival Fever: Huckleberries, Faeries, Reggae & More Summer Highlights!
From Whitefish to Columbia Falls, this episode takes you inside the vibrant heartbeat of Northwest Montana's summer festival scene. We’re talking Huckleberry Days, the Flathead Faerie Festival, Heritage Days in Columbia Falls, reggae at the Montana Tap House, Fire in the Mountains metal fest, Fleetwood Mac tributes, Motown tributes, and Midland’s big show—plus so much more. Get the scoop on food trucks, art vendors, live music, and the community spirit bringing these events to life.
Don't miss our featured event - Whitefish’s Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, August 8th–10th at Depot Park! Enjoy local art, food, and family-friendly fun all weekend long — and admission is free, thanks to the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at https://www.whitefishartsfestival.org
Whether you’re chasing huckleberry ice cream or headbanging in the mountains, we’ve got the full rundown of can't-miss moments. Check out https://www.dailyinterlake.com/events for the full rundown.
A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at https://www.lorensauto.com.