The Many Glacier Hotel is located on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake in Glacier National Park.
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- The construction site in Many Glacier Valley will remain closed to all vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic until mid-May 2026.
- Some parts of the valley remain accessible with restrictions.
If you’re planning a trip to Glacier National Park, the Many Glacier Valley area is probably on your “must-see” list. If so, you may want to rethink your plans for now, or at least prepare for some changes.
Beginning September 16, Many Glacier Valley, including the popular Swiftcurrent area, will be closed for major road, park and water system improvements. This closure will last until at least mid-May 2026.
What is being closed and why?
The closure will affect all vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic in Many Glacier Valley as improvements are made to the park. Improvements include a complete overhaul of roads and parking lots, and the replacement of a water system dating to the 1960s. Ultimately, this is a forward-looking project designed to make the park safer and more enjoyable for future visitors.
All Many Glacier Valley concessions will close after September 16 for the 2024 season, including the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, Glacier Park Boat Company and Swan Mountain Outfitters. The Many Glacier Hotel will also close after breakfast on September 16.
If these facilities are closed, the public will have no access to drinking water for the rest of the season.
The Many Glacier frontcountry campground closes for the season on September 15. Sun Tours, Glacier Guides and Red Buses will operate through September.
Will the entire area remain closed until 2026?
While the construction site in Many Glacier Valley will be completely closed until mid-May 2026, some parts of the valley will be accessible with restrictions.
In 2025, the Many Glacier Hotel, Swan Mountain Outfitters and Glacier Boat Company will operate as usual, but with limited parking due to ongoing construction. The Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, Many Glacier Campground and trailhead parking lot at the Swiftcurrent end of the valley will be closed for the 2025 season.
Can I still explore the popular hiking trails?
Yes, hiking trails will still be open, but with some restrictions. Trails like the popular Grinnell Glacier Trail will be accessible, but you will need to start your hike further away and follow marked detours.
Access to all trails begins at the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot, the only parking lot that will remain available after the Sept. 15 closure. However, authorities warn that “access may be temporarily restricted,” so check with the park if you’re planning a specific hike.
What do wilderness campers need to know?
After closing at the start of the season this September, the Many Glacier Ranger Station will be closed. Permits to stay in the wilderness will be issued from a trailer in the parking lot of the Many Glacier Hotel.
The permit trailer will be open seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through September 26. No permits will be issued after 4 p.m.
Plan ahead
Glacier National Park is popular with outdoor enthusiasts, especially in the summer. If you’re planning a trip during the closure period, check the Glacier National Park website for the latest updates and possible access changes.
Be sure to allow extra time to find a parking space and arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Based in New York, Weather.com reporter Tim Harris is a digital journalist with a broad reporting portfolio that includes environmental science, lifestyle topics and current affairs.
