Vehicle Drive Through Reservations

Question

Hello, arriving in July, not staying in the park. Spending three days on one side (Kalispell) and three days on the other side (Babb). Do we still need a ticket to drive through the park? if so when can we purchase them?

Answer

Yes, Glacier National Park has implemented a reservation system for vehicle access during the summer months to manage the high volume of visitors. Since you're visiting in July, you will indeed need a reservation to drive through certain sections of the park, particularly the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is one of the most popular and scenic routes in the park.

Reservation Requirement: In 2023 and beyond, reservations were required for vehicles on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and they are typically required for all vehicles entering the park. These reservations are designed to help reduce congestion and ensure a better experience for visitors. You'll need a vehicle reservation if you're planning to drive through the park during peak times (typically from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.). If you're visiting outside of these hours, reservations may not be needed, but it's always good to check before your trip.

When and How to Purchase Tickets: Vehicle reservations for Glacier National Park are usually available for purchase starting in March or April for the summer season (July is considered peak). These tickets can be purchased online through the official Glacier National Park website or the recreation.gov site, which handles park reservations for many national parks. Reservations tend to sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to book as early as possible.

Purchase Timeframe: Typically, vehicle reservations open in March or April, but it's best to monitor the official Glacier National Park website for exact dates and details on when reservations become available.
Availability: Be sure to check availability regularly, as spots can fill up fast, especially during peak summer months. If reservations are unavailable, you may still be able to enter the park during less busy times, such as early mornings or later in the evening.
Reservation Fees: Vehicle reservations typically come with a small fee in addition to the park's regular entry fee. Check the current rates on the official website when making your reservation.

Alternatives: If you’re unable to get a reservation or want to explore different areas of the park, here are some options:

Early Morning or Late Evening: If you don’t mind starting your day early or staying later, you can often enter without a reservation during the off-peak hours (before 6 a.m. or after 5 p.m.), but this is subject to availability.
Other Access Points: There are many other beautiful spots in Glacier National Park, such as Many Glacier, Two Medicine, or Polebridge, that may not require a reservation, depending on where you're staying and which areas you're visiting.
Shuttle Services: If driving through the park isn’t feasible without a reservation, consider using the park's shuttle system, which allows you to visit popular spots like Logan Pass without a reservation.

Make sure to check the official Glacier National Park website or recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on vehicle reservations, as rules and procedures can change. Enjoy your visit to one of the most beautiful places in the U.S.!

Vehicle Drive Through Reservations

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