Zinke critical of Glacier Park reservation decision

Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke isn’t too happy with the Glacier National Park announcement that it would implement a timed entry reservation system last week.

“(It’s) a step in the opposite direction and unsurprising the activists at the NPS would jam this out after the election,” Republican Zinke said in a statement to the Hungry Horse News. “Rationing access to the park is not the answer to the problem. The answer is developing a transportation system that is reliable, functional and enhances the park experience, coupled with bolstering the trail system. Parks are for the American people, not a select few radical bureaucrats. I look forward to working with the Trump administration to correct the ongoing rationing of public lands by unelected bureaucrats.” 

Zinke in the past has carried legislation that would defund Glacier’s reservation system, while requiring the Park Service to look at alternatives, like increased parking outside of the park and more shuttles to reduce traffic. 

Glacier has a shuttle system, but it only serves the Sun Road, not other areas of the park. 

Montana Sen. Steve Daines, who serves as the top Republican on the Senate National Parks subcommittee, was a bit more pragmatic. 

“Our national parks help set the United States apart, and here in Montana we’re lucky to have the best of the best, including Glacier. Folks come from across the world to experience the beauty of our state and ensuring visitors can safely and responsibly enjoy the park is essential. I will continue to work with the park and the community to ensure that there is a balanced approach that allow locals and visitors to access and enjoy Glacier,” Daines said. 

Sentiment was similar from Senator-elect Tim Sheehy. 

“Tim believes in working to ensure Glacier National Park remains one of Montana’s greatest treasures. As U.S. senator, Tim will listen to park officials, local leaders and community members, and work to make sure both locals and visitors who want to access and enjoy the park can do so safely and responsibly.”  Jack O’Brien, Sheehy spokesman said. 

With reservations required on the west side of the Sun Road, but not the east side this summer, Glacier visitation was up about 10% overall, with more than 3 million visitors and record visitation in September.