Popular Glacier National Park Swiftcurrent Area To Close Until 2026

If you’re planning a trip to Glacier National Park, you probably have the Many Glacier Valley area on your “must-see” list. If so, you might want to rethink your plans for now, or at least prepare for some changes.

Starting Sept. 16, the Many Glacier Valley, including the popular Swiftcurrent area, will be closed for major road, parking and water system upgrades. This closure will last through at least mid-May 2026.

What’s Closing And Why?

The closure affects all vehicles, bikes and foot traffic in the Many Glacier Valley as the park works on improvements. The upgrades include a complete overhaul of the roadways and parking areas, as well as replacing a water system dating back to the 1960s. Ultimately, it’s a future-looking project that should make the park safer and more enjoyable for future visitors.

All Many Glacier Valley concession facilities will close for the 2024 season after Sept. 16, including the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, Glacier Park Boat Company and Swan Mountain Outfitters. Many Glacier Hotel will also close after breakfast on Sept. 16.

When these facilities close, the public will not have access to potable water for the remainder of the season.

The Many Glacier frontcountry campground will close for the season on Sept. 15. Sun Tours, Glacier Guides and Red Buses will operate through September.

The Entire Area Will Be Closed Until 2026?

While the construction zone within the Many Glacier Valley will be completely closed through mid-May 2026, some parts of the valley will be accessible with restrictions.

Can I Still Hike The Popular Trails?

Yes, trails will still be open, but with some caveats. Trails like the popular Grinnell Glacier Trail will be accessible, but you’ll have to start your hike farther away and follow marked detours.

Access to all trails will begin at the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot, the only parking that will be available after the Sept. 15 closure. Officials warn, however, that “entry may be temporarily restricted” so check with the park if you’re planning for a specific hike.

What Do Wilderness Campers Need To Know?

Following the early-season closure in September of this year, the Many Glacier Ranger Station will be closed. Wilderness permits will be issued from a trailer in the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot.

The permit trailer will be open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. through Sept. 26. Permits will not be issued after 4 p.m.

Plan Ahead

Glacier National Park is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, especially in the summer. If you’re planning a trip during the closure, keep an eye on Glacier National Park’s website for the latest updates and potential changes to access.

Be sure to plan for additional time to find parking and consider an early arrival to beat the crowds.

Based in New York, Weather.com reporter Tim Harris is a digital journalist with a broad reporting portfolio that spans environmental science, lifestyle topics and breaking news.