Glacier National Park set to begin limited reopening

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Glacier National Park has decided to reopen its west entrance for recreational access starting June 8. The park underwent a complete closure following coronavirus lockdown restrictions back in March and services after reopening will be available on a limited basis. The park will be coordinating with tribal officials on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation according to the phased reopening plan structured by park authorities.

The reservation is on the eastern boundary of the park and follows a different set of restrictions than the state of Montana. Restriction on non-essential travel within the reservation’s boundaries was extended by tribal officials until June 30. Therefore, entry to the park via those eastern entrances is prohibited as of now. The limited reopening process also enables the business partners and concessioners of the park to be rapid in defining strategies in order to protect the health and safety of the visiting public and the staff members.

Jeff Mow, Superintendent, Glacier National Park said in a statement that the authorities are aware of the economic importance that Glacier holds to the gateway communities. He informed that the goal of the park authorities is provide visitor access gradually alongside mitigating the risk of new infections and responding fast if any new cases are found. However, the reopening priorities of the park will revolve around protecting the public and employees from transmission risks through a variety of mitigation actions consistent with local, state, tribal, and federal guidance, and the release states.

Park authorities have already developed a range of mitigation actions. Usage of face masks facial coverings when social distancing cannot be maintained is being constantly encouraged. Protective barriers on necessary areas and signage on boardwalks and other public spaces have been put up. Frequency of cleaning facilities has been increased and visitors are also being informed via messaging through a variety of methods. The park will also analyse and monitor changing conditions in the park and in surrounding counties. Flexibility to expand, adjust, or contract operations according to the conditions will also be maintained.

The west gate entrance at West Glacier will be opened on June 8. The gate will be open until 4:30 P.M. each day until operations are extended. Visitors will be able to access Apgar and Going-to-the-Sun Road as far as Lake McDonald Lodge. Accessing restrooms and trails from open park roads is also allowed. All private businesses in Apgar Village are also likely to resume operations. Hiking and biking activities on Going-to-the-Sun will open according to the conditions. The park is even planning to target personal boating on Lake McDonald and opening aquatic invasive species inspection stations. Visitors should also be prepared to follow all CDC and local health guidance by practicing good hygiene and social distancing.

However, visitor centers and ranger stations will remain closed until later in the season. Campgrounds, back country permits, additional stores, expanded tours and takeout food service will also remain closed and open when safe and appropriate mitigation measures are in place. Hotels, full-service dining, commercial tour buses, and ranger programs will also remain closed and will be subjected to reopening when health conditions allow. The road construction projects on both sides of the park will continue in the spring and summer.

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