Visiting Glacier National Park in 2025? Read This.
2025 Timed-Entry Reservation System
If you're planning a visit to Glacier National Park between June 13 through September 28, 2025, it's important to be aware of the new timed-entry vehicle reservation system for popular areas like Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork. This system is designed to help manage the influx of visitors and ensure a more enjoyable, less crowded experience for everyone.
What You Need to Know About Vehicle Reservations
During peak season (June 13 through September 28), visitors will need to secure a timed-entry reservation to access specific areas of Glacier National Park between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Once you’ve made your reservation at Recreation.gov, you can enter the park within your designated time block and stay for as long as you want on the day of your visit. If you miss your reserved time, you’re still welcome to enter before 7:00 AM, or after 3:00 PM, or from a different park entrance.
Timed-entry reservations are available in two-hour windows:
7:00 AM to 9:00 AM
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Vehicle Reservation Release Dates
Reservations for 2025 will be available starting on February 13, 2025, at 8:00 AM MST. They will be released in rolling daily windows, so be sure to check Recreation.gov early to secure your spot. If you miss out on booking ahead, don’t stress—next-day reservations will also be released at 7:00 PM MDT the day before your visit, starting on June 12, 2025. If you can’t secure a reservation, you can still enter the park before 7:00 AM or after 3:00 PM without a reservation. Plus, visitors with accommodations, camping, or activity reservations within the park can bypass the timed-entry system. Simply show your reservation confirmation at the entrance.
What Happens if Reservations Are Sold Out?
Even if all reservations are sold out, there are still ways to enjoy Glacier National Park. The park is open 24/7, so you can enter vehicle reservation areas before 7:00 AM or after 3:00 PM without a reservation. These off-peak hours are a great way to explore some of the park’s most popular hiking trails, like the Hidden Lake Overlook or Logan Pass, with fewer crowds. Additionally, you can enter from the east side of the park - St. Mary and Two Medicine entrances - without a vehicle reservation at any time of day without needing a reservation.
Conclusion: A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
The vehicle reservation system for Glacier National Park in 2025 is designed to manage the high volume of visitors during the summer months. Securing your timed-entry pass early is essential for ensuring smooth access to the park during peak times. Be flexible with your arrival time, plan for the possibility of sold-out slots, and use the quieter hours of the day to get the most out of your trip.
For more details, visit the official Glacier National Park website and book your vehicle reservation on Recreation.gov. Enjoy your adventure in Glacier National Park in 2025!
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