Glacier National Park Now Faces Overtourism and Environmental Damage, Experts Urge Caution for 2026

Published on November 29, 2025

Glacier National Park, one of America’s most beautiful and iconic destinations, has recently been added to the “No List” for 2026 by travel experts due to the growing issue of overtourism. Once heralded as a natural wonder, the park is now facing significant environmental strain, leading experts to urge travelers to reconsider visiting in the near future. The park, located in the northern Rocky Mountains of Montana, is known for its majestic glaciers, breathtaking views, and diverse wildlife, but recent trends of overcrowding and “last-chance tourism” are threatening its delicate ecosystem.

Experts from Fodor’s Travel highlighted that Glacier National Park has become a destination of urgency due to the looming disappearance of over 100 glaciers by 2030, driven by climate change. This has led to a surge in visitors eager to witness the glaciers before they vanish, contributing to massive overcrowding and environmental damage. The increase in traffic has not only disrupted the natural beauty of the park but has also strained its infrastructure, wildlife, and resources.

The Impact of Overtourism on Glacier National Park

The most recent influx of visitors has exacerbated the park’s existing issues. According to Michael Jamison, the Northern Rockies campaign director for the National Parks Conservation Association, overtourism is degrading Glacier’s natural features, which attract visitors in the first place. While the idea of visiting before the glaciers melt is understandable, the rise in tourism is having a lasting negative effect on the park’s environment. The combination of increased vehicle traffic, littering, illegal parking, and disturbances to wildlife is causing significant harm to the park’s ecosystems.

Jamison pointed out that these environmental damages are largely irreversible. In addition to traffic congestion, which impacts air quality, visitors’ actions are also disturbing wildlife and damaging habitats. Instances of people getting too close to animals, going off designated trails, and using drones have been reported. These behaviors, referred to as “touronic”, are increasingly common in national parks, but they are particularly concerning in Glacier, where the delicate balance of nature is easily disturbed.

Climate Change and the Depletion of Glacier Resources

The primary concern at Glacier National Park is the rapid warming of the park, which is occurring nearly twice the global average. The climate change notice issued by the park outlines the diminishing glaciers and the threat posed by wildfires in the area. Of the approximately 150 glaciers that once existed in the park, only 27 remain today, and these too are expected to disappear within the next decade. Wildfires have become a growing concern, further contributing to the degradation of the environment.

The rising temperatures and increased visitor numbers have resulted in higher consumption of the park’s water resources, which has led to water shortages in the park, particularly during peak seasons. The combination of overtourism and climate change is creating a challenging situation for the park’s natural resources, and experts believe that the damage caused by both factors may be difficult, if not impossible, to reverse.

The Role of Fee Increases and Sustainable Tourism

In an effort to address overcrowding, Glacier National Park is implementing a fee increase for international visitors starting in 2026. Under the “America-First” campaign, international tourists will pay more than three times the fee charged to U.S. residents. This fee hike is intended to generate revenue for park maintenance, but experts believe that it may have a minimal effect on reducing visitor numbers.

While fee increases are one way to manage demand, they may not be sufficient to address the root causes of overtourism. Sustainability and responsible tourism practices must be prioritized across the board, and educating visitors on how to respect nature and follow park rules is critical. Many experts argue that “tourism management” through education and regulation is key to preserving these fragile environments for future generations.

What Travelers Can Do

For those planning to visit Glacier National Park in 2026 and beyond, it is important to stay informed about the park’s current conditions and accessibility. Visitors should consider traveling during off-peak seasons or exploring alternative, less-crowded parks to help reduce the strain on Glacier’s natural resources. Practicing leave-no-trace principles, following trail guidelines, and respecting wildlife will help minimize the environmental impact.

For those who still choose to visit Glacier National Park, be sure to plan ahead by checking for up-to-date information on the park’s website and use the Aspen Snowmass app for the latest updates on weather conditions, trail closures, and environmental status.

Conclusion: The Future of Glacier National Park

As Glacier National Park faces mounting pressures from climate change and overtourism, it is crucial for travelers and park management to work together to preserve the park’s natural beauty. By understanding the impact of overcrowding and supporting sustainable tourism practices, we can help ensure that Glacier National Park remains a national treasure for generations to come.