A visit to Glacier National Park is unforgettable, and a little planning can make the experience even better. With vehicle reservations no longer required, popular areas may fill early and parking can be limited at trailheads and visitor destinations throughout the summer. A bit of preparation—and some flexibility—can go a long way. Use these simple do’s and don’ts to help make the most of your time in the park.
DO
Arrive early or stay late. Summer daylight stretches from around 5 a.m. to past 10 p.m., giving you plenty of time to explore outside peak hours.
Be patient. Allow extra time for park entry, parking, dining, visitor centers and popular destinations.
Have a backup plan. Parking lots fill quickly, especially at popular trailheads.
Carry bear spray. Keep it accessible and know how to use it before you hit the trail.
Use the restroom before your hike. Most trails will not have facilities besides the one at the trailhead.
Reserve your Logan Pass shuttle seat in advance. Taking a shuttle up to Logan Pass is a great option, but know that advance reservations are required.
Stop by a visitor center. Get current trail, weather and wildlife information before heading out.
Join a ranger-led program. Guided hikes, Native America Speaks presentations, evening talks and astronomy programs offer deeper insight into the park. Learn more about ranger led programs here.
Make reservations ahead of time. Lodging, dining and guided activities often book up well in advance.
Consider a shoulder-season visit. Spring and fall can offer fewer people and a different perspective on the park.
Learn about Indigenous history. Glacier National Park’s landscapes hold deep cultural significance for Indigenous peoples, whose connections to this place were established a millennia ago and continue today.
Think beyond one park. Pair Glacier with Waterton Lakes National Park or Yellowstone National Park for an unforgettable park-to-park adventure.
Be kind. A little patience and courtesy go a long way with park employees and fellow travelers.
Fill up your gas tank. There are no gas stations inside the park.
DON’T
Don’t approach wildlife. Give animals plenty of space and admire them from a distance. Read more about wildlife safety here.
Don’t park outside designated areas. Improper parking damages resources and creates safety hazards.
Don’t exceed the three-hour parking limit at Logan Pass. The restriction helps more visitors access the area, and exceeding the three-hour limit will result in an expensive ticket.
Don’t count on cell service. Download maps and important information before you arrive.
Don’t leave trash behind. Pack out everything you bring into the park.
Don’t choose a hike beyond your abilities. Match your adventure to your fitness level, experience and available time.
Don’t bring pets on trails. Pet restrictions help protect wildlife and park resources.
Don’t bring a drone. Recreational drone use is prohibited in the park.
Don’t blast music. Let everyone enjoy the sounds of nature.
Don’t geotag your location. Sharing exact locations can contribute to overcrowding and resource impacts.
Glacier National Park is one of our country’s most beautiful parks and is best experienced when you know the dos and don’ts and take time to appreciate the scenery, wildlife and moments in between.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
June 15, 2026
Related: Glacier National Park, Montana, Recreate Responsibly, Vacation, Wildlife
Comments