Glacier National Park Proposed Entry Rules 2026: No Timed Reservations + What Changed
Updated February 5, 2026
introduction
Glacier National Park’s time vehicle reservation pilot program used from 2021 to 2025 is considered for discontinuation for summer 2026, meaning you likely won’t need a reservation to enter the park (Flathead Beacon)
Logan Pass parking will have limited time limits to improve turnover, but congestion remains a concern (Daily Montanan)
Many Glacier access is still affected by construction through mid-May 2026, limited parking for many trailheads (NPS)
You still need a park pass (or an America the Beautiful pass) for entry. Reservations are still required for camping or some shuttles, but not general driving (NPS)
Responsible tourism matters more than ever with continued staffing shortages & resource challenges across public lands
Continue reading for must-know updates on park access, parking information, camping, shuttles, and responsible travel tips. If this is your first time visiting Glacier National Park start with my broader planning overview here.
2026 timed entry & Vehicle REservation Changes
What was timed entry?
Timed vehicle reservation was a pilot program requiring visitors driving through congested entrances of the park including: North Fork, West, and Many Glacier Entrances. A $2 reservation for certain dates and times each summer was required to offset traffic during the high season.
Change for 2026
For summer 2026, Glacier National Park plans to suspend the vehicle reservation requirement. This means:
You likely will not be required to book a timed entry window to enter the park during peak season
Park officials are shifting toward real-time area closures and parking turnover policy rather than advanced booking
Park passes are still required: you must have a valid Glacier National Park pass or an America the Beautiful pass to enter
While reservations are expected to be suspended, access management is shifting rather than disappearing. Visitors should anticipate dynamic congestion controls such as temporary closures, parking turnover enforcement, and shuttle prioritization in high-demand areas.
logan pass parking limit & access
Once you arrive, expect strict enforcement of parking limits (3-hours for Logan Pass) to increase turnover
Arrive early (before 7 a.m. or in the afternoon to increase your chance of finding a spot)
Express shuttle services are expected and likely will require a reservation to support popular hikes like the Highline Trail
Many Glacier Access & Construction
Construction projects in the Many Glacier area are scheduled through mid-May 2026
Parking is limited and the road beyond the Many Glacier Hotel is closed to vehicles, bikes, and foot traffic during construction
Expect to add distance to trails as they will start from the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot
→ Heads up: Always check NPS alerts before your trip for late adjustments.
Camping reservations
Camping reservations are still required for front and backcountry sites
Many sites are set aside in lotteries, but there are still some first-come, first-served options available
→ Explore my backcountry set-up
Frequently asked Questions
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Current planning indicates the timed vehicle reservation system used from 2021–2025 is suspended. Visitors should still expect congestion controls such as parking limits or area closures, so checking NPS alerts before arrival remains essential.
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Yes. Visitors must still purchase a Glacier National Park entrance pass or hold a valid America the Beautiful pass.
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Based on the proposals, no. Parking turnover limits are expected, including a three-hour cap intended to improve access. Travelers planning longer hikes should consider shuttle options. Shuttle options have not been released yet.
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Yes. Express shuttle services may require reservations, particularly for popular trail access points.
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Always review the Glacier National Park alerts page before travel. Conditions and access rules can change quickly due to staffing, weather, or congestion.
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Yes, Glacier International Airport has runway maintenance. Flights will be interrupted for the month of July 2026.
Responsible travel in 2026
Considerations of visiting Glacier National Park
National parks are facing continued staffing shortages, budget constraints, and higher than ever visitation rates. Some services may experience limitations, including:
Reduced search and rescue capability
Longer wait times and limited shuttle operations
Trailhead maintenance delays
Restroom closures
Unplanned closures due to weather, staffing, or overcrowding
What you can do
Practice Leave No Trace at all times
Carry bear spray and know wildlife safety basics
Bring a map and additional resources for first aid
Check daily updates from NPS before your visit
→ Planning a hiking trip to Glacier? Get my free Glacier National Park Hike Pack List in this post
Planning a Larger Rockies Trip?
If you’re also planning an extended trip elsewhere in the Rockies, I put together a realistic first time Banff National Park itinerary based on my own visits. The Canada Strong Pass keeps things easy this summer with no entrance fee from June 19 to September, 2026 that also applies to international visitors.
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Discover Glacier National Park and the surrounding area with an in-depth insider guide. Packed with personal tips, detailed itineraries, customized map for ease of use during your trip, and unique perspectives from months of exploration. This guide is your ultimate companion for planning an unforgettable trip to Montana.
A portion of proceeds from this guide goes directly to preserving and protecting Glacier National Park. For every guide sold, $2 will be donated to Glacier National Park Conservancy & $2 will be donated to the Piikani Lodge Health Institute