Its an incredible time of year to explore Glacier National Park on a bike as road traffic is comparatively sparse next to the peak months of tourist visits during the summer. With relatively desolate roads, mellow springtime cycling around Crown of the Continent is an amazing way experience the park’s dramatic landscapes while getting a bit of cardio.
While Glacier is a premier destination for National Park cycling, it does require a few extra precautions that you wouldn’t have to take on an urban biker ride. Glacier National Park cyclists are advised to carry and understand the use bear spray and understand the dos and don’ts of a wildlife encounter. This includes maintaining a 25 yard distance from the approximately 300 grizzly bears that call Glacier home.
This family of three were enjoying a springtime bike ride through Glacier National Park on April 19th, 2025 when the came across a roadside grizzly. With a toddler perched in the frame mounted kids seat, the family quietly observed a grizzly walking through the forest.
As animal sightings are common on the road during the biker season, Glacier National Park advises bikers to not only pay attention to the wildlife but also potential dangers presented by the road itself:
“During a wildlife encounter, you may be in an area with steep cliffs both above and below. Be sure to stop at a distance that allows the animal a clear route to move away from you. Moose and deer are common at lower elevations. Goats, sheep, and marmots are seen at higher elevations, and bears are common at all elevations.” –
Learn more about bike safety at Glacier National Park below:
Glacier National Park Bicyling Safety Guidelines:
- Drivers are often distracted by scenery in the park, so ride defensively.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Maintain control of your speed.
- Bring a headlamp if biking in the early morning, late afternoon, or evening.
- Use hand signals to communicate with drivers and other bicyclists.
- Never leave food unattended, including in bicycle panniers and backpacks.
- None of Glacier’s roads have bicycle lanes or shoulders. Wear high visibility clothing and protective equipment.
- When riding an e-bike, mount and dismount carefully. The added weight of the battery and motor assist technology can add twenty or more pounds to the typical weight.
- Make sure to carry and understand how to use bear spray and understand the dos and don’ts of a wildlife encounter. Maintain 25 yards (23 m) distance from all large animals, and 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves.
- Always let an outside party know where you are going and check in when you get back safely. There are many hazards on bicycling routes, such as vehicle collisions, wildlife, rockfall, and avalanches.
- Check tire pressure before you set out and make sure you have the necessary tools to change a tire. Check that your pump matches the valve on your tire.