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Fall in Glacier: Construction, Weather Affect Access

A breakdown of recent changes in access in the park

By Molly Priddy
St. Mary Lake. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon

Thinking of taking an autumnal adventure in Glacier National Park? Here’s a breakdown of some recent changes in access:

Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed to vehicle traffic at Avalanche Creek on the west side and just before the St. Mary’s Entrance Station on the east side due to a rehabilitation project on the station, therefore there is no parking at the St. Mary’s Visitor Center. Hikers, bikers, and campers accessing the Going-to-the-Sun Road or the St. Mary Campground should park in available roadside spaces along the Going-to-the-Sun Road or at the 1913 Ranger Station.

Campers will need to hike or bike to the campground from their parking spot. The campground is in primitive status. Loop C is open and has a functioning pit toilet year round.  Camping fees are $10 per night through Oct. 31.  Starting Nov. 1, camping is free with a valid entrance pass.

The St. Mary Visitor Center is closed for the winter season. Weather conditions permitting, bicycles and pedestrians can access the area beyond the entrance station on the newly completed bike path extending from the park boundary at St. Mary to the visitor center and beyond to the St. Mary Campground.

At the Avalanche Creek area, visitors can use the boardwalk portion of the Trail of the Cedars leading to the Avalanche Lake Trailhead. The southern portion of the trail is closed to improve safety and construct a new pedestrian bridge over Avalanche Creek.