The Loop is the one proper hairpin on the western side of Going-to-the-Sun Road, and it is the place where the road, which has been climbing steadily up the valley, finally gets tired of going straight and turns back on itself in a big, left-handed sweep. It is a pull-out and trailhead as well, so you can stop and look at the road from the outside. A trail leads from here up to Granite Park Chalet, a stone mountain hut, and a lot of walkers set out from the parking lot.
For a rider the corner is the signature of the climb. Below it the road follows the valley wall with a series of long, smooth bends, with the McDonald Creek valley opening below and the big peaks beginning to show. Above it, the road rises toward Logan Pass in a high, slanting traverse cut into the cliff, with walls on one side and a long drop on the other, no shoulder to speak of, and low stone parapets which are sturdy but not tall. It is a ride that demands attention and gentle hands, and the narrow lanes make it a good idea to hug the right side. The oncoming traffic often includes a motorhome or a red tour bus, one of the old fleet of open-top White Buses that carry visitors. Early morning or evening is far better for riding than midday.
The landscape here changes in character as you climb. Cedar and hemlock give way to subalpine fir, and the glacier-carved valley shows its U shape clearly, with waterfalls dropping from the hanging valleys on the far wall. Late snow lingers in gullies until July, and the road crews often have to blast through drifts in spring. The weather can switch quickly, and afternoon showers are common, so bring rain gear.
Columbia Falls is the nearest sizeable town, a good half hour from the lodge, and West Glacier has a few more basics. The parking area is small and fills early, so arrive in the morning if you can. The corner sits right in grizzly and black bear country, so carry spray if you plan to walk, and stay within sight of other people.