Boat reservation/vehicle reservation

Question

Yes, I’ve read the appropriate NPS paragraph several times, but it’s as clear as mud to me. Before I make my boat reservation for Many Glacier soon, will I need a vehicle reservation as well? If so, then what areas do you NOT need a vehicle reservation for a boat tour?

Answer

It’s understandable that the rules about boat and vehicle reservations for Glacier National Park can be a bit confusing, but I’ll try to break it down for you clearly.

Do You Need a Vehicle Reservation for a Boat Tour at Many Glacier?

If you're planning to take a boat tour at Many Glacier, you will likely need to secure both a vehicle reservation and a boat tour reservation during the peak season, which typically runs from mid-June to mid-September. The boat tours at Many Glacier are very popular, and securing a reservation for both is recommended to ensure you can access the area. However, here’s how it works:

Boat tours at Many Glacier are managed by the Glacier Park Boat Company, and you will need to make a reservation for the boat ride itself.
During the high season, you also need a vehicle reservation to access certain areas, including Many Glacier. This is part of Glacier National Park’s reservation system to manage congestion and provide a smoother experience for visitors.

What Areas Require a Vehicle Reservation?

In general, the vehicle reservation system for Glacier National Park covers some of the most popular areas, including:

Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTTSR) - Required for vehicles traveling the road during the reservation period.
Many Glacier - If you’re planning to visit Many Glacier for the boat tour, you will need a vehicle reservation to access the area (unless you arrive after 3 p.m., when reservations are no longer required).
Logan Pass - Also part of the GTTSR, so you’ll need a reservation to drive to this iconic viewpoint during the peak season.

Areas You Don’t Need a Vehicle Reservation For:

There are several areas in the park where vehicle reservations are not required, including:

Two Medicine - This area of the park is much less crowded and does not require a reservation for vehicle access.
Lake McDonald - This popular area for hiking and exploring is also open without a reservation for vehicles.
Apgar Village - Located near the west entrance, this area is another spot you can access without a vehicle reservation.

Summary:

If you're going to Many Glacier for a boat tour, you will likely need both a boat reservation and a vehicle reservation during the peak season.
If you cannot secure a vehicle reservation for Many Glacier, consider visiting after 3 p.m., when the reservation system is no longer in place.
Some areas of the park, such as Two Medicine, Lake McDonald, and Apgar Village, do not require a vehicle reservation.

It’s always a good idea to double-check availability and make reservations as soon as possible, especially for the busy summer months. And if you’re unable to get a reservation for Many Glacier, there are other beautiful parts of the park to explore!