Going-to-the-Sun road is a must do attraction.

It will be crucial to check that this iconic road is open for the season before you plan your trip. Opening dates vary every year, but it is typically open from late June to early October. If this is your first time in Glacier and you want the full experience, you will want to make this drive a PRIORITY.

Image features views directly from the Going-to-the-Sun road.

Vehicle Reservation is paramount!

If the Going-to-the-sun road is open, it will most likely require a permit to enter with a reservation made in advance. Reservations drop well ahead of the season and sell out quickly, but a segment of reservations is reserved and released the night before at 7pm. If your diligent and login at exactly 7pm you may be lucky enough to snag a last minute reservation. If your planning your trip in advance it will be best to check when reservations drop and get you reservation then. Reservation information and sign up is all on recreation.gov

Vehicle reservations are also required for several areas of the park. These vary each year so check back to recreation.gov for up-to-date information.

Image features Wild Goose Island of St. Mary's Lake in Glacier National Park.

Parking can be...attrocious.

If you thought parking in the big city was stressful, trying driving around a trailhead parking lot for an hour hoping to snag a spot when a hiker returns to their car! The top tip to beat the crowds and secure a parking spot is to arrive EARLY, like 6:00AM early. But if you're planning a shorter hike and want to take your time exploring the park along the way, your second best option is to arrive to the trail head in the late afternoon or early evening. This aligns your arrival with most hikers departure and will increase your chances of a quick parking spot.

TO SUM IT UP...

  • GOING TO THE SUN ROAD

    Don't miss this epic drive! Make sure it's open for your trip.

  • RESERVE YOUR ENTRY IN ADVANCE

    If you want entry to the most popular parts of the park, you will need an advance reservation.

    recreation.gov 

  • ARRIVE EARLY OR LATE FOR BEST PARKING

    If you don't you may find yourself driving circles in the parking lot.

Glacier National Park Collection

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