Chief Mtn. border crossing to open soon
Tips on how to cross without problems
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The U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced May 13 that the Port of Chief Mountain will re-open for the 2013 season on Wednesday, May 15, at 9 a.m.
The U.S. to Canada border crossing is located on Highway 17 in Glacier County and is a convenient route connecting travelers to Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park in Alberta from Glacier National Park in Montana.
Hours of operation (Mountain Daylight Time) are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for May 15 through May 31; from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. for June 1 through Sept. 2; and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Sept. 3 through 30.
CBP agents advise travelers to avoid peak travel times, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and have required proof of citizenship documents ready. A notarized travel permission letter should accompany minors when both parents are not present.
Visitors may present a valid passport, a passport card, an enhanced driver’s license, a trusted traveler card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry or FAST/EXPRES), lawful permanent resident card, or Native American U.S. and Canadian citizen current tribal documents as a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.
Travelers should declare all purchases to the CBP officer, including fruits, vegetables, live animals and meat products. Keep receipts as proof of where items were purchased. Failure to declare may result in penalties of $300 or more.
Most U.S. or Canadian grown fruits and vegetables may enter the U.S. from Canada, except citrus, tomatoes, peppers and home-grown potatoes, which are prohibited. Each vehicle may enter with up to 50 pounds of Canadian-origin beef, pork or chicken (for personal use only). Meats, fruits or vegetables purchased in the U.S. prior to entering Canada are not restricted (labels should be left on).
All firewood is prohibited unless accompanied by a heat treatment certificate. Travelers with prohibited firewood will be returned to Canada to dispose of firewood.
Dogs that are at least three month old need signed and dated certificates from a veterinarian verifying they have been vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering the U.S. Any weapons or ammunition must be declared when leaving or entering the U.S.
Visitors must declare any currency in excess of $10,000 when leaving or entering the U.S. Travelers are advised not to attempt to cross the border outside of the established hours of operation.
For more information, visit the Know Before You Go page in the Travel section at www.cbp.gov. For information on entering Canada, visit online at www.cbsa.gc.ca or call 1-800-461-9999.