tips for visiting glacier national park

Tips for Visiting Glacier National ParkThe busiest time of year at Glacier National Park is from mid-June to mid-September. The park is open year-round, but many roads inside the park are seasonal. The alpine portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road closes each winter due to heavy snowfall (usually around the third Monday in October); you can expect Going-to-the-Sun Road to reopen when the snow plowing is finished in late June or early July.

(Note: Due to rock overhangs, vehicles and vehicle combinations longer than 21 feet or wider than 8 feet (including mirrors) are not permitted on the section of Going-to-the-Sun Road between Avalanche Campground and the Rising sun picnic area.)

To help alleviate parking and traffic issues during the busy season, a free shuttle system (included with park admission) runs along Going-to-the-Sun Road between the Apgar and St. Mary visitor centers; check the park website for the current schedule and route.

ADMISSIONAs of 2021, the Glacier National Park entrance fees are $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcyclist or $20 per person arriving on foot or bicycle. The entry fee is good for 7 days from the date of purchase. Rates are slightly discounted during winter months (November-April).

PETSYou can bring your pet to picnic areas, front-country campgrounds and parking areas in Glacier National Park, as well as in the car with you while you drive on park roads. Keep in mind that pets must be leashed, crated or otherwise physically restrained at all times. Leashed dogs are also permitted on the bike path between Apgar and West Glacier when the path is free of snow, but pets are not allowed on trails, in buildings, in backcountry areas or along lake shores in remote areas of the park.

ADDRESSGlacier National Park Headquarters is located at 64 Grinnell Drive, West Glacier, MT 59936; phone (406) 888-7800.