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How to plan your Glacier National Park visit for 2025: Reservation deadlines and key rules

Here's what Glacier National Park's new reservation system will mean for you in 2025

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Hiking Glacier National Park in Montana.
JD Andrews / Unsplash

Glacier National Park is one of the most gorgeous ones in the United States, so it’s not a surprise that it saw almost three million visitors in 2023. Visitors can’t get enough of Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald, and the many lakes and glaciers in the area — the best time to visit Glacier National Park is often the busiest time. Because of the congestion in recent years, the National Park Service had previously enacted a reservation system for entry to the park as part of a pilot program. The National Park Service recently revealed this will continue in 2025, including timed entry reservations for the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork — here’s what you need to know.

Here’s how it will look like going into 2025

Glacier National Park morning mist over road
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park Tevin Trinh / Unsplash

West Entrance: Going-to-the-Sun Road

  • Reservations required: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., June 13 – September 28.
  • Applies to travel beyond Apgar Village.
  • Entry without a reservation: Before 7 a.m. or after 3 p.m.
  • Exceptions: Visitors with lodging, camping, or certain commercial reservations (originating beyond Apgar checkpoint) will be allowed entry.

North Fork: Polebridge Entrance Station

  • Reservations required: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., June 13 – September 28.
  • Entry without a reservation: Before 7 a.m. or after 3 p.m.
  • Visitors heading to the Polebridge community (outside the park) do not need a reservation.

Two Medicine and St. Mary Entrances

  • No vehicle reservations required in 2025.
  • Temporary restrictions may apply during peak congestion hours (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.).
  • Visitors with service reservations (e.g., tours, lodging) will be granted access during these restrictions.

Many Glacier Valley

  • The Swiftcurrent area of Many Glacier Valley will remain closed for summer 2025 due to construction. The park is exploring alternative access options and will provide updates in a future release.

Secure your reservation 120 days in advance starting from February 12. These reservations have a $2 processing fee, but you will also need a valid park entrance pass.

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Sarah Joseph
Sarah Joseph
Contributor
Sarah is a lover of all things outdoors. With a bright sense of adventure and a heart for the mountains, she is always…
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