Glacier Will Assess Permit Fee For Backcountry Camping

Sun., March 15, 1998

Rich Landers Outdoors Editor

Beginning in June, Glacier National Park will begin charging a fee for backcountry camping permits.

The new fee was authorized by Congress, and is similar to those initiated several years ago by national parks in Canada.

The cost in Glacier will be $4 per person, and per night for backcountry users, said David Mihalic, park superintendent.

Frequent backcountry travelers can purchase an annual backcountry pass for $50 a season. The annual pass will not be transferable.

The backcountry fees will be collected in addition to the $20 advance reservation fee introduced last year.

Similar or higher fees are charged at Grand Canyon and Zion national parks.

Glacier Park’s Canadian counterpart, Waterton Lakes National Park, charges a $10 reservation fee and $6 per person, per night for backcountry users.

Backcountry permits at Glacier Park can be obtained with or without advance reservations. Nearly half of all backcountry sites will still be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Backcountry fees will be charged June 1 through Sept. 30. Permits will be issued at Apgar and St. Mary visitor centers, the Many Glacier, Polebridge and Two Medicine ranger stations, and at Waterton Lakes National Park.

Advance reservation fees will be charged for trips June 15-Oct. 31.

Advance reservations for trips June 15th-Oct. 31 will be accepted beginning April 15 by mail only. Walk-in advance reservations will be accepted starting April 25.

Info: (406) 888-7800.

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