Swiftcurrent Area in Glacier National Park Closes

If you’re planning a trip to Glacier National Park in 2025, you might need to adjust your itinerary. The Swiftcurrent area in Glacier National Park will be closed starting September 16, 2024, and for the entire 2025 season due to major construction and restoration projects. For those familiar with Swiftcurrent’s stunning scenery and top-notch hiking trails, this closure is significant. Here’s what you need to know and how to plan your trip around it.

Why is Swiftcurrent Closed?

The National Park Service has announced that Swiftcurrent, located in the Many Glacier region, will undergo essential infrastructure updates and habitat restoration. This includes repairs to roads, trails, and bridges, along with significant maintenance work on the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. The park is also focused on restoring natural habitats that have been affected by increased traffic and human activity over the years.

The closure is designed to ensure the area is protected and preserved for future generations while improving visitor safety and accessibility.

What is Closed?

The entire Swiftcurrent Valley will be off-limits, including popular spots such as:

Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Cabins
Swiftcurrent Lake and the surrounding shoreline
The Grinnell Glacier trailhead
Swiftcurrent Pass Trail
The Swiftcurrent Ranger Station

What Does This Mean for Hikers?

All trail access will start from the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot, with maps and signs providing detour information around the construction area. The Swiftcurrent area is known for some of Glacier’s most iconic hikes, including the Grinnell Glacier and Swiftcurrent Pass trails. If these routes are closed, hikers will need to seek alternatives in other parts of the park. Fortunately, you should still be able to access trails – but by hiking a bit of a detour.

Here are a few hiking options should you wish to bypass closed trailheads:

Iceberg Lake: Located near the Many Glacier Hotel, this is a spectacular alternative hike. The trail offers alpine views, wildflowers, and a stunning lake destination. Trail signs will start at the Many Glacier Hotel. (This may be quite a hike from Many Glacier Hotel!)
Highline Trail: If you’re looking for a long, scenic hike, consider this trail near Logan Pass. It’s one of Glacier’s most famous routes, offering dramatic views of the park’s rugged landscape.
Avalanche Lake: For a shorter, family-friendly hike, Avalanche Lake near Lake McDonald is a great choice. The scenery is lush, and the hike is less strenuous than Swiftcurrent’s high-elevation trails.

Where to Stay Instead

With the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn closed, those planning to stay in the Many Glacier region will need to make other arrangements. The Many Glacier Hotel will remain open, though expect it to book up quickly.

Other accommodation options include:

St. Mary: Just a short drive from Many Glacier, St. Mary offers lodging, campgrounds, and access to the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Lake McDonald Lodge: Located on the west side of the park, this historic lodge is a great base for exploring the western trails and lakes.
Apikuni Mountain Campground: For those who prefer camping, this quieter campground is located near the Many Glacier entrance.

What Else to Explore in Glacier National Park

Even with the closure of the Swiftcurrent area, there’s no shortage of beauty and adventure in Glacier National Park. Some areas to consider:

Two Medicine: A quieter region of the park, Two Medicine offers incredible lakeside views and less-crowded trails. Be sure to hike to Twin Falls or take a boat tour on Two Medicine Lake.
Logan Pass: The heart of Glacier, Logan Pass is home to the famous Hidden Lake Overlook and Highline Trail. Arrive early, as parking fills up quickly, but the views are worth it.
Goat Haunt: Located near the Canadian border, this remote area offers solitude and stunning scenery, including access to Waterton Lakes.

Tips for Visiting in 2025

Book Lodging Early: With Swiftcurrent closed, nearby accommodations like Many Glacier Hotel and St. Mary will fill up fast. Plan your stay well in advance.
Adjust Your Itinerary: If you had your heart set on visiting Grinnell Glacier or Swiftcurrent Pass, be flexible and explore other parts of the park.
Check Park Updates: Stay up to date on closures and road conditions by checking the Glacier National Park website before your trip.
Explore Lesser-Known Trails: With Swiftcurrent unavailable, this is the perfect time to discover hidden gems in other parts of the park, such as the North Fork areas.
Secure Many Glacier vehicle reservations 120 days in advance: They are required for entry during peak season and tend to sell out quickly. Without a reservation, access to this popular area will be limited, and alternative entry points may not offer the same iconic views or proximity to major trailheads. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth visit and avoid any last-minute setbacks.
Arrive early in the morning: Due to closures/construction, parking will be limited. Even with a vehicle reservation, arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot.

Looking Ahead

While it’s disappointing to see the Swiftcurrent area closed, these necessary improvements will help protect the region’s natural beauty for years to come. The closure is also a great reminder to explore other parts of Glacier National Park, many of which offer equally stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Glacier’s vast and diverse terrain ensures that even with the Swiftcurrent closure, your 2025 visit will still be full of breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and adventure. Keep an eye on updates from the park and start planning your alternative routes to make the most of your trip!