While the total numbers don't compare to Yellowstone's, Glacier National Park definitely rocked it last month.

Glacier National Park officials report a 60% increase in visitation numbers for October 2020 over the previous year. Last month, 125,544 visitors entered the park in October compared to 78,408 in October 2019. The average number of visitors in October for the past three years is about 85,000.

As did Yellowstone National Park with COVID-19 restrictions in place, overall, the park saw a reduction in visitors between June and September. The park was closed to visitors from March 24 to June 8 due to the pandemic. Visitation was down 70% in June, 50% in July, 40% in August and 30% in September.

Due to the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council’s resolution restricting non-essential travel on the reservation, the east entrances to the park and Going-to-the-Sun Road were closed throughout the season. Visitors were required to enter and exit Going-to-the-Sun Road via the west entrance and traffic was allowed as far as Rising Sun on the east side. The west entrance continues to be the only access point for the park during the winter season.

Speaking of which, if you are looking for an early-winter adventure, although the alpine sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier are closed for the season, visitors can drive 15.5 miles of the road from the west entrance to Avalanche Creek. But remember, there are no lodging or food services available in the park this time of year.

Winter weather conditions sometimes cause road closures. Visitors are encouraged to  call 406-888-7800 and select option 1 for the latest road updates.

 

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