Understanding Glacier National Park’s 2024 Vehicle Reservation System

2024 is the fourth year Glacier National Park has implemented a vehicle reservation system. The Crown of the Continent has seen a steady increase in visitation over the past 15 years, so the reservation system has been enacted to protect resources and provide a high-quality visitor experience.  Adjustments were made to the 2024 system based on visitor comments and recommendations.

There’s good news for those traveling to the east side of Glacier (that’s the side closest to Great Falls)! Visitors can access Going-to-the-Sun Road from the St. Mary entrance on the east side without a vehicle reservation.  A vehicle reservation is also not needed to access Two Medicine.  Another option? Go through any park entrance before 6:00 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. without a vehicle reservation.

Vehicle reservations (valid for one day) will be required in three areas between 6:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. from:

• WEST ENTRANCE (Going-to-the-Sun Road at Apgar Checkpoint): May 24-September 8
• NORTH FORK: May 24-September 8
• MANY GLACIER: July 1-September 8

Visitors still need a park pass, in addition to a vehicle reservation. Vehicle reservations can be made ONLY at www.recreation.gov for a $2 processing fee.  Be sure to get online ahead of time to set up an account.

Reservations will be available through two booking windows:

• ROLLING: a portion of reservations will be available 120 days in advance, starting on January 25, 2024, at 8:00 a.m.  For example: Travelers wanting to go to an area in Glacier requiring a vehicle reservation on July 6 will need to go to recreation.gov on March 8 to secure a reservation.  If travelers are going to Glacier to multiple days, they’ll need to get on recreation.gov multiple days in a row to get a reservation for 120 days out from each date they plan to be in the park.
• NEXT-DAY ENTRY: the remaining reservations will be available at 7:00 p.m. MST for entry the next day starting on May 23, 2024.

According to Glacier National Park representatives, travelers with lodging, camping, transportation, or commercial activity reservations within specified reservation areas can use proof of their reservation in place of a vehicle reservation from recreation.gov to enter portions of the park.

Vehicle reservations are not required for tribal members throughout the park, in accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978.

Questions? Call the Vehicle Reservation System Hotline: 1-406-888-7800, Press 1

WATCH this interview with Glacier National Park Public Information Officer Gina Icenoggle and LISTEN to episode 158 of our podcast We’re No Dam Experts (available wherever you listen to podcasts) or on our YouTube channel for a full breakdown of what you need to know to plan your trip!