From the removal of vehicle reservations, entrance fees to parking changes at Logan Pass, here’s what you should know if you are visiting Glacier National Park in 2026.
NO VEHICLE RESERVATION SYSTEM FOR 2026
Unlike recent years, Glacier National Park will not require vehicle reservations in 2026. Visitors will be able to drive personal vehicles into the park at any time of day without needing to make an advance reservation.
This change offers greater flexibility for trip planning, especially for FIT visitors who plan in advance and know they can enter Glacier National Park upon arrival. Please note that Glacier remains one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and popular areas can still fill quickly during peak summer months. It’s always advised to have a backup plan. Vehicles may be temporarily diverted when areas reach capacity. Visitors with lodging, camping, boat tour, horseback ride, guided hike or backcountry reservations will be permitted entry during temporary restrictions but may experience delays getting to their desired destination. Please allow extra travel time.
ENTRANCE FEES AND PASSES
Non-residents of the United States should be aware of additional entrance requirements and fee options when planning a trip to see some of the most popular national parks, including Glacier National Park.
Non-Resident Entrance Fee: New for 2026, visitors age 16 and older who reside outside the U.S. are required to pay a $100 non-resident fee in addition to the standard park entrance fee, unless admitted under a qualifying America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass. Learn more here.
Non-Resident Annual Pass: America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass is available for $250 per year. This pass covers one private vehicle, two motorcycles, or the passholder plus three additional adults at sites that charge per person rather than per vehicle. If your itinerary includes more than one national park, this is likely the most affordable option. The traditional American the Beautiful Annual Pass for US citizens and permanent US residents remains available.
Free Entrance Days: Complimentary entrance days apply only to U.S. citizens and permanent U.S. residents. Non-resident visitors are still required to pay standard entrance fees unless they hold an America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass.
Commercial and Guided Tours: The $100 non-resident fee also applies to non-resident visitors participating in commercial tours, Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) trips and concessionaire-led tours, unless they use a Non-Resident Annual Pass. Learn more here.
For the most up-to-date information on fees and passes, check the official National Park Service website before arriving.
LOGAN PASS PARKING LIMITS
Beginning July 1, parking at Logan Pass will be limited to three hours—enough time to visit the Visitor Center, attend an interpretive program or hike to Hidden Lake Overlook. Visitors wanting to stay longer or planning longer hikes—including the Highline Trail to Granite Park Chalet or to the Loop Trailhead—must use the park shuttle via reservation and will need a shuttle ticket (see below).
These changes are designed to improve traffic flow and access at one of the park’s most congested locations. Travelers hoping to hike longer trails or spend extended time at Logan Pass should plan ahead and secure shuttle reservations early. Overnight parking is not permitted, except for backcountry permit holders and registered Granite Park Chalet guests.
GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD PARK SHUTTLES
Park shuttles in 2026 will operate as a reservation-only express service. The shuttle system launches on July 1, 2026.
Shuttles serve Logan Pass from both sides of Going-to-the-Sun Road. West side routes depart from Apgar Transit Center and Lake McDonald Lodge, with afternoon stops at the Loop. East side routes depart from St. Mary Visitor Center and Rising Sun. Riders can transfer between routes at Logan Pass. Note that Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars will not be accessible by park shuttle in 2026.
Because snow conditions can delay trail openings—including the Highline Trail—check the park’s trail status page before heading out. Updated route details, boarding times and stop locations will also be posted as the season approaches.
SECURING A SHUTTLE TICKET
Tickets are sold exclusively through Recreation.gov (or by calling 877.444.6777) for a $1 processing fee per ticket. They are not sold inside the park, and a Recreation.gov account is required. All passengers age 2 and older need a ticket; tickets are non-transferable.
Tickets are released in two windows:
- 60 days in advance on a rolling basis, beginning May 2, 2026, at 8 a.m. MDT
- Next-day tickets are released nightly at 7 p.m. MDT, beginning June 30
Cell service is unreliable throughout the park, so print or save a digital copy of your ticket before you arrive. A photo ID may be requested at boarding.
TWO MEDICINE AREA
Camping at Two Medicine Campground will not be available in 2026 due to construction. Visit the park’s construction page for more information.
PLAN AHEAD FOR A SMOOTHER VISIT
While 2026 brings fewer access restrictions than recent seasons, advance planning remains key to a rewarding Glacier National Park experience. Understanding entrance fees, parking limits and shuttle requirements will help visitors spend less time navigating logistics and more time enjoying the park’s scenery, activities, wildlife and trails.
For those looking to round out their trip, the communities surrounding Glacier National Park offer lodging, dining and outdoor experiences that pair naturally with time in the park, and can help balance busy days at popular locations like Logan Pass.
As details continue to evolve, travelers are encouraged to check official National Park Service updates before their visit and plan with flexibility in mind. As usual, if you have questions, we are always here to help.
Happy Trails,
DP
March 11, 2026
Related: East Glacier Park, Glacier National Park, West Glacier
Comments