The End of Timed Entry? National Park Reservation Changes for 2026
The rise in visitors to America’s most popular national parks has strained roads, trails, and staff to the point that timed vehicle reservation systems were introduced. While successful at reducing afternoon traffic, it’s not without controversy. As a result, some parks, like Yosemite and Glacier National Parks, are rolling back their reservation systems and implementing alternative traffic management systems. Learn what’s changing, why, and how to plan your next national park adventure in a landscape of evolving rules.
Glacier National Park Suspends Vehicle Reservations in 2026
Why Was the Reservation System at Glacier Implemented?
Since 2021, a timed-entry system has been in place at Glacier National Park for popular areas, like the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It was implemented after a record number of post-COVID travelers in October 2020 caused traffic jams on the famous highway. Park managers were concerned about crowd control and traffic safety. In addition to traffic bottlenecks, congestion can also degrade the trails and harm wildlife habitat if not managed.
While the program was highly successful at reducing mid-afternoon traffic, it sparked significant controversy. Opponents say that vehicle reservations limit tourism in Montana and that it simply shifts the risk, creating other safety issues. For instance, people driving on roads early in the morning to avoid peak reservation times put more wildlife at risk.
When you go camping in Glacier this year, bring along the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Max Plus. With 3000W of output, it will run any kitchen appliance, lighting, entertainment, recharge devices, and even power or recharge a portable refrigerator.
What Travelers to Glacier Should Know For 2026
With fewer staff and a need for efficiency, national parks around the country are making changes. In December 2025, Park Superintendent Dave Roemer said they are planning to cancel the vehicle reservation system. Instead, they will be introducing additional traffic management measures to improve safety and reduce congestion. For instance, parking at Logan Pass will be limited to 3 hours to prevent congestion and stop people from parking on the road.
The park will announce later this year once the decision has been finalized. In the meantime, you should check Glacier’s vehicle reservation site online for more up-to-date information. Currently, it still shows the vehicle reservation, but nothing is available.
The Broader Trend: National Parks Reconsider Reservation Systems
Glacier National Park is not the only one to reconsider its vehicle reservation system. Here are some other parks and their various policies.
Yosemite’s Evolving Reservation Policies
Yosemite’s peak-hour reservation programs have often been paused, scaled back, or delayed over the years. But, as of 2025, you no longer need a reservation to drive into Yosemite National Park. However, the $35/car park entrance fee will still be charged upon arrival.
Arches National Park’s Reservation Adjustments
Arches National Park has seen a rise in visitors in recent years and also has a controversial timed-entry reservation system. People sometimes line up for miles on the highway that serves as both the entrance to the park and the town of Moab, creating unsafe traffic conditions.
Arches is expected to continue using the reservation system, with reservations opening 3 months in advance. However, they also occasionally pause their timed entry system based on varying visitation patterns and extreme heat. So, it's a good idea to always check the park website for updates before you go.
What Rocky Mountain and Other Parks Are Doing
If you visit Rocky Mountain National Park from late May to mid-October, you may need a timed entry reservation, but it depends on where and when you go. Visit their Timed Entry Permit System for more information on your specific destination.
Whether to implement vehicle reservations is decided by each park's managers. It’s not a blanket decision implemented by all national parks. This means you should always do your research online to determine whether your preferred national park destination has a reservation system.
What These Changes Mean For Park Visitors
Planning Without Guarantees
If the park you’re going to doesn't require reservations, you cannot guarantee you will get in if you visit during peak hours/season. However, here are some workarounds to try:
Always check the park website before going, as things can change mid-season.
Travel outside peak season when fewer people are traveling.
Arrive early.
Use shuttles where available.
Plan to spend multiple days in the area so that if you don’t get in one day, you can always try again.
Furthermore, even if vehicle reservations are no longer required, this doesn’t mean reservations won’t be required at your preferred lodging. You may also need backcountry permits or other permits in advance, so check your park rules before you go.
National Park Travel Essentials
Whether you are packing your camping essentials or you’re just spending a day driving, hiking, and exploring at a national park, don’t forget the following items:
Hiking shoes and clothes, with extra layers for high elevations
Trail app or a paper map from the park
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Complete first aid kit, including triangle bandages and splints
Safety whistles for each family member
Cooler with meals and snacks
Refillable water jugs and water bottles
Phone and/or camera
EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus Portable Power Station for compact power that’s small enough to fit in a backpack but powerful enough to run camping lights, recharge devices, and even power portable appliances.
Plan Ahead for a Seamless Glacier Adventure
Glacier National Park’s move away from vehicle reservations in 2026 reflects a broader shift in how park managers must balance access, safety, and conservation. While some parks are eliminating or easing reservations, others still require them, and still others may temporarily pause them based on traffic or weather. However, if you plan ahead, check the park websites often, and be ready to adjust on the fly, you can still have a successful outdoor adventure this summer at some of our most beautiful national treasures. Be sure to pack reliable gear like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus Portable Power Station for compact, on-the-go power.
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