Glacier National Park
National Park · Montana

Glacier National Park

Photo: Jacob W. Frank, NPS · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Glacier protects over a million acres of the northern Rockies with more than 700 miles of trails. Highlights include Going-to-the-Sun Road over Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, Many Glacier and hikes like Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier. No vehicle reservation is needed in 2026, but Logan Pass parking has a 3-hour limit, so arrive early or use the shuttle.

Good to know

Tickets
The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. Non-US residents pay an extra per-person fee here. No vehicle reservation is needed in 2026; a ticketed shuttle runs over Going-to-the-Sun Road in summer.
Time needed
3 to 4 days to cover Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier and Two Medicine.
Best time
July to mid-September, when Going-to-the-Sun Road is usually fully open.
Getting there
West Glacier is at the west entrance. Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell is about 30 minutes away by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
West Glacier, MontanaKalispell, MontanaWhitefish, Montana
Advertisement
Ad space · 728 × 90

Glacier National Park questions

Do I need a reservation for Glacier National Park in 2026?

No. The vehicle reservation system was dropped for 2026, but you still need an entrance pass, and the summer Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle needs a ticket.

When is Going-to-the-Sun Road open?

The full road usually opens in late June or early July and closes in mid-October, depending on snow.

What are the best hikes in Glacier?

The Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg Lake and Avalanche Lake are the most loved.

Nearby national parks