Experiences with timed entry

Question

I was wondering how people have been making out with the reservations for this summer? How long did it take before spots were sold out? My week is coming up in a few days, so I’m getting anxious!

Answer

It’s completely understandable to feel a bit anxious as your trip to Glacier National Park approaches, especially with the new timed entry system in place. Here's what I’ve seen from others’ experiences with reservations, and hopefully, this will give you a better idea of what to expect:

The timed entry system has been in effect during peak summer months to help manage the crowds and preserve the park’s natural beauty. Reservations typically become available months ahead of time, and spots can fill up fairly quickly, especially for popular days like weekends and holidays.

How long did it take for spots to sell out?
- For the busiest weeks, many visitors report that spots can sell out within a few hours or even minutes of the reservations opening. However, there’s usually a few days or even weeks where spots remain available depending on the date.
- Some users mentioned they were able to secure a spot with a little patience and timing, but there’s also a chance that popular time slots (e.g., morning slots or weekends) fill up quickly.
How early should I make a reservation?
- If you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to check for any remaining timed entry slots for your dates, as reservations can go fast. It’s recommended to make your reservations as soon as possible, even months in advance if you can, to avoid missing out.
- If you’re traveling last minute, you might have some luck with cancellations or by checking multiple times a day for new openings, especially for less popular time slots or days later in the week.
What if I miss the timed entry window?
- If timed entry spots are sold out for your dates, you can still visit Glacier NP without a reservation, but you would be required to enter during the designated non-reservation hours (e.g., early morning or later in the evening), though this is subject to availability.
- Alternatively, consider visiting less popular areas of the park or using shuttle services that might have access to timed entry spots.

It’s worth keeping an eye on the official website for any last-minute openings or cancellations, and some people also recommend using apps or tools that monitor ticket availability. Don’t worry too much—while the timed entry system can be a bit stressful, Glacier is incredibly beautiful, and even if you don’t get the perfect time slot, you’ll still have a fantastic experience!

Experiences with timed entry

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