12 Best Road Trip Routes in the US — With Estimated Costs

5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana) - $1,500-$2,400 for 6 Days

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park represents one of America's most spectacular and challenging mountain drives, traversing 50 miles through the heart of the Northern Rocky Mountains and showcasing some of the most pristine wilderness and dramatic alpine scenery in North America. This engineering marvel, completed in 1932 and designated a National Historic Landmark, climbs to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet elevation while providing access to pristine lakes, ancient glaciers, diverse wildlife, and over 700 miles of hiking trails that range from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry adventures. The route typically requires 5-7 days to experience fully, allowing time for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and exploring both the east and west sides of the park, each offering distinct ecosystems and cultural experiences including the Blackfeet Nation's heritage on the eastern approach. Budget considerations for Going-to-the-Sun Road include the park entrance fee of $35 for seven days or $70 for an annual pass, fuel costs averaging $150-250 for regional driving including approaches from major cities, accommodation ranging from $120-300 per night at historic park lodges or $80-150 at gateway communities like Whitefish and Kalispell, and dining expenses of $40-70 per day featuring Montana specialties like bison, trout, and huckleberry products. Additional costs include guided tours ($35-75), boat excursions on park lakes ($25-45), and equipment rentals for outdoor activities ($20-50 per day), while camping provides a budget alternative at $20-30 per night for those willing to rough it in one of America's most beautiful settings. The total estimated cost ranges from $1,500-2,400 for two people, making it a premium but worthwhile investment for experiencing one of the world's most spectacular mountain environments and pristine wilderness areas.