Know Before You Go, Glacier National Park: Many Glacier

Start Planning! 

You’re about to go on an epic adventure to Glacier National Park’s Many Glacier! Here’s what you need to know before you go. 

• The tour has two starting points:
  • Babb - Just south of the Elkhorn Cabins and Campground on Hwy 89
  • St. Mary - Just north of Two Sisters Cafe on Hwy 89
• Many Glacier requires a vehicle reservation to enter, purchased from recreation.gov either 120 days or 24 hours in advance.
• You will also need your National Park Pass.
• The biggest concerns are falling, hypothermia, and bears.
• Summer and early fall are the best time to visit.
• travel updates and road closures

Budgeting and Hours of Operation 

Budget

How much you spend truly depends on what you do along the tour route, but here’s a breakdown of some costs.

• National Park Pass: $20 - $35

Hours of Operation 

The tour stops have seasonal hours of operation. The site’s facilities and restaurants also have varying hours of operation. Check NPS site for current opening hours.

Get Packing!

Here’s our packing list for this tour. It may seem a little long, but remember, what you bring depends on the activities you choose to do for the day. 

• Raincoat
• Sunscreen
• Binoculars
• Insect Repellent
• Bear Spray (can be rented at Kalispel Airport or Apgar Village)
• Any Vehicle Reservations Needed

Best Time to Visit 

Sunrise over Many Glacier lodge on Lake Sherburne, Glacier National Park, Montana.Shutterstock Image

Summer and early fall is best. But remember, you will need a vehicle reservation to enter Many Glacier during the summer unless you enter the park in the very early morning or late afternoon.

Safety Information 

The biggest concerns are falling, hypothermia, and bears. Watch your step, keep dry, and bring bear spray.

Additional Information

Yes, as of 2024, vehicle reservations are required for entering Many Glacier during the prime seasons.

These can be booked on Recreation.gov 120 days or 24 hours in advance.

Without a vehicle reservation, visitors can enter early morning or late afternoon, before or after gate-check hours.

Leave No Trace

While exploring, we encourage you to abide by the leave-no-trace principles. Embrace the outdoors responsibly with our commitment to preserving natural wonders. 

Respect wildlife habitats, minimize your footprint, and carry out memories, not waste. By following Leave No Trace principles, you contribute to the longevity and beauty of our planet's most stunning landscapes.