Commercial Use Authorization Conditions

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Commercial Use Authorizations are subject to conditions on how business should be conducted in parks. Conditions applicable to all CUAs and activity-specific stipulations may be updated annually. Current calendar year National, Park and Activity-Specific Conditions, as published below, are applicable to CUA holders regardless of the permit issue date.
 

Additional Information: The National Park Service has terms and conditions on all commercial service agreements. The following terms and conditions will apply to all Commercial Use Authorizations. There may be additional terms and conditions based on the services provided. These may include but are not limited to limits on locations, times, group size, and employee licenses and certifications and providing such information to the park superintendent for approval.

 

National Conditions

Current as of 10/15/2024

1. False Information: The holder is prohibited from knowingly giving false information. To do so will be considered a breach of conditions and be grounds for revocation: [RE: 36 CFR 2.32(a) (3)].
2. Legal Compliance: The holder shall exercise this privilege subject to the supervision of the area Superintendent. The holder shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations of the area and terms and conditions of the authorization. The holder must acquire all permits or licenses of State or local government, as applicable, necessary to provide the services described above, and must operate in compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations, including, without limitation, all applicable park area policies, procedures and regulations. All vehicles/vessels/aircraft are required to be registered and the operators are required to have the proper licenses to operate them commercially, as required by law or regulation.
3. Employee Conduct: The holder must ensure that its employees are hospitable and exercise courtesy and consideration in their relations with the public. The holder must establish appropriate screening, hiring, training, safety, employment, termination and other policies and procedures. The holder must review the conduct of any of its employees whose action or activities are considered by the holder or the Director to be inconsistent with the proper administration of the Area and enjoyment and protection of visitors and must take such actions as are necessary to correct the situation. The holder must maintain, to the greatest extent possible, a drug free work environment.
4. Rates: The holder shall provide commercial services under this authorization to visitors at reasonable rates satisfactory to the area Superintendent.
5. Operating Conditions: The holder shall provide the authorized commercial services to visitors under operating conditions satisfactory to the area Superintendent.
6. Liabilities and Claims: This authorization is issued upon the express condition that the United States, its agents and employees shall be free from all liabilities and claims for damages and/or suits for or by reason of any injury, injuries, or death to any person or persons or property of any kind whatsoever, whether to the person or property of the holder, its agents or employees, or third parties, from any cause or causes whatsoever while in or upon said premises or any part thereof during the term of this authorization or occasioned by any occupancy or use of said premises or any activity carried on by the holder in connection herewith, and the holder hereby covenants and agrees to indemnify, defend, save and hold harmless the United States, its agents, and employees from all liabilities, charges, expenses and costs on account of or by reason of any such injuries, deaths, liabilities, claims, suits or losses however occurring or damages growing out of the same.
7. Insurance: Holder agrees to carry general liability insurance against claims occasioned by the action or omissions of the holder, its agents, and employees in carrying out activities and operations under this authorization. The policy shall name the United States of America as additional insured. Holder agrees to have on file with the park copies of the above insurance with the proper endorsements.
8. CUA Fees: At a minimum, the holder shall reimburse the park for all costs incurred by the park as a result of accepting and processing the application and managing and monitoring the authorized activity. Administrative costs for the application process must be paid when the application is submitted. Monitoring fees and any additional costs incurred by the park to support the commercial activity will be paid annually or on a more frequent basis as determined by mutual agreement between the Holder and the area Superintendent.
9. Benefit: No member of, or delegate to, Congress, or Resident Commissioner shall be admitted to any share or part of this authorization or to any benefit that may arise from this authorization. This restriction shall not be construed to extend to this Contract if made with a corporation or company for its general benefit.
10. Transfer: This authorization may not be transferred or assigned without the written consent of the area Superintendent.
11. Termination: This authorization may be terminated upon breach of any of the conditions herein or at the discretion of the area Superintendent.
12. Preference or Exclusivity: The holder is not entitled to any preference to renewal of this authorization except to the extent otherwise expressly provided by law. This authorization is not exclusive and is not a concession contract.
13. Construction: The holder shall not construct any structures, fixtures or improvements in the park area. The holder shall not engage in any groundbreaking activities without the express, written approval of the area Superintendent.
14. Reporting: The holder must submit annually the CUA Annual Report (NPS Form 10-660) by January 31 for the prior CUA season and also must submit upon request the CUA Monthly Report (NPS Form 10-660A). The holder is to provide the area Superintendent upon request any other specific information related to the holder’s operations that the area Superintendent may request, including but not limited to, visitor use statistics, and resource impact assessments.
15. Accounting: The holder is to maintain an accounting system under which its accounts can be readily identified within its system of accounts classification. This accounting system must be capable of providing the information required by this authorization. The holder grants the United States of America access to its books and records at any time for the purpose of determining compliance with the terms and conditions of this authorization.
16. Minimum Wage: The holder must comply with all provisions of Executive Order 14026 of April 27, 2021, (Increasing the Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors) and its implementing regulations, including the applicable contract clause, codified at 29 C.F.R. part 23, all of which are incorporated by reference into this authorization as if fully set forth in this authorization.
17. Paid Sick Leave: The holder must comply with all provisions of Executive Order 13706 of September 30, 2016, (Establishing Paid Sick Leave for Federal Contractors) and its implementing regulations, including the applicable contract clause, codified at 29 C.F.R. part 13, all of which are incorporated by reference into this authorization as if fully set forth in this authorization.
18. Visitor Acknowledgment of Risks (VAR): The holder is not permitted to require clients sign a waiver of liability statement or form, insurance disclaimer, and/or indemnification agreement waiving the client’s right to hold the CUA holder responsible for accidents or injury occurring on NPS property. The holder is permitted to request or require a client to sign a form or statement acknowledging risk and/or indicating that certain prerequisite skills may be needed to participate in the commercial activity. The holder must provide the park with the current copy of all forms and/or statements used for this purpose and obtain written approval by the park to use the form and/or statement. A sample Acknowledgment of Risk form may be obtained by contacting the CUA office at [insert phone number] or by going to the park CUA webpage at [Insert park CUA web address]
19. Intellectual Property of the National Park Service: Except with the written authorization of the Director of the National Park Service, the Holder shall not assert any legal claim that the Holder or any related entity holds a trademark, tradename, servicemark or other ownership interest in the words "National Park Service", the initials "NPS", or official name of any unit or part thereof, including but not limited to any facility, logo, distinctive natural, archaeological, cultural, or historic site, within the National Park System, or any colorable likeness thereof, or the likeness of a National Park Service official uniform, badge, logo, or insignia.
20. Nondiscrimination: The holder must comply with Applicable Laws relating to nondiscrimination in providing visitor services to the public and with all equal employment opportunity provisions of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, as amended.
21. Notification of Employee Rights: The holder must comply with all provisions of Executive Order 13496 of January 30, 2009, (Notification of Employee Rights Under Federal Labor Laws) and its implementing regulations, including the applicable contract clause, codified at 29 CFR part 471, appendix A to subpart A, all of which are incorporated by reference into this authorization as if fully set forth in this authorization.

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Glacier National Park Specific Conditions

Updated 10/15/2024

As used herein and in any CUA, the term “employee” includes all of the CUA holder’s officers, employees and other representatives, including but not limited to interns or volunteers.

General Provisions

1. This Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) does not authorize the holder to advertise, solicit business, collect any fees, or sell any goods or services on lands owned and controlled by the National Park Service. The commercial aspects of the service, except for the service itself, must occur outside of the park, including marketing, advertising, use or construction of temporary or permanent structures and signs, the negotiation of compensation with the customer, or the solicitation or receipt of money or other compensation. Advertising for the permitted activity shall not state or imply endorsement by the National Park Service and must not depict or suggest prohibited or unauthorized activities.
   
2. For advertising purposes, the permit holder or employees listed on the CUA permit may use incidental photos and video of authorized activities and scenery in areas where they are permitted to operate. Footage may be shot with a small handheld video camera, cell phone, DSLR, or GoPro. If the CUA designates a staff member or hires a professional or separate business to film or photograph for advertising purposes, a Commercial Film Permit may be required. Still photography requires a permit under specific circumstances, including but not limited to when model(s), set(s), or prop(s) are used. To obtain a permit or discuss permitting requirements, contact the Special Park Use office at [e-mail].
   
3. Advertising for the authorized activity shall not state or imply endorsement by Glacier National Park or the National Park Service. Advertising materials (company brochure, internet advertising, or other promotional material) as it pertains to Glacier National Park and the authorized service shall be subject to review. The holder will, at the request of the park, make corrections to any promotional material deemed inappropriate, such as; containing inaccurate or misleading statements regarding the services provided under the terms of this authorization, material that is non-complimentary to the park’s mission and visitor services objectives, or that depicts illegal or unauthorized activities.
   
4. Fees:
   Park Entrance fees are required for all visitors/clients/participants entering the park. The holder agrees to pay the applicable entrance fee rate in effect at the time of arrival at the park entrance station or designated fee collection site. Company employees will not be charged the entrance fee when entering for purposes of conducting the activity authorized under a CUA.

• Clients entering the park in their personal vehicles will be charged the applicable “private vehicle” entrance fee rate.
• Clients aged 16 and older travelling in a holder operated vehicle will be charged the individual fee applicable at the time of entry.
• Clients who own an Interagency Annual Pass may use the pass to cover their individual fee or their private vehicle entrance fee. Passes can only be used to cover entrance fees for the pass Holder and his or her family only and must be in-hand at the time of entry to the park.
• Interagency Annual Passes may not be used by commercial companies or employees for entry into Glacier National Park while conducting business to admit clients. The passes may only be used by private individuals. Further information about the America the Beautiful pass program is available at https://www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm.
• Individual (Pedestrian/Cyclist) and Private Vehicle Entrance Passes can be purchased in advance from https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74280. Directions for the use and purchase of passes online can be found at the aforementioned website.

CUA Application and Management Fees: A non-refundable application fee is required, regardless of the length of the CUA. CUA holder will be required to pay a percentage of their gross receipts (Market Price Management Fee) for their park-dependent operations by no later than January 31^st for the preceding year.

5. All incidents involving overdue parties or accidents involving personal injury, property damage, or injury to park wildlife or resources involving holder vehicles, clientele, and/or employees must be reported to the park staff as soon as possible per 36 CFR 2.33, 3.5, and 4.4. For emergency reporting call Glacier National Park Dispatch at [phone]; after hours call 911. CUA Holders must also report any incidents involving vehicle/property damage, personal injury, violations, or convictions to the Commercial Services office within 24 hours at: [e-mail].
6. All pages of this authorization must be carried and available for inspection by the holder and its employees at all times while operating within Glacier National Park. Failure to carry all pages is a violation of terms and conditions of this authorization. The first page of the CUA must be a paper/hard copy; the remaining pages may be digital. The holder and their employees must present the permit to any park employee or representative (volunteer) on demand.
7. All companies must show a printed/hard copy first page of this authorization to the entrance station ranger upon arrival to the park.
8. CUA Identification:
   • Vehicle Markings: All vehicles, including rental vehicles, must display company information on both sides of the vehicle that meets the following minimum requirements:
     1. Company name
     2. Number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or State of Montana if applicable.
     3. The letters must contrast sharply in color with the background on which the letters are placed.
     4. Markings must be legible, during daylight hours, from a distance of 50 feet when the vehicle is stationary.
   • Employees are required to display the name of the CUA holder’s company on their person while providing tours/guide services within the park. Employees can meet this requirement by wearing, at a minimum, one of the following: nametag, shirt, or hat. If wearing multiple logos, the CUA holder's company must be the predominant logo.
9. Use of the North Fork area is specifically excluded from this authorization. This is defined as areas north of Camas Creek to the United States of America – Canada border and between the North Fork of the Flathead River and the Continental Divide. Use of the Camas Road is permitted unless otherwise stated in this authorization as prohibited.
10. The CUA holder must submit an itinerary of proposed locations with application to be reviewed and approved by Commercial Services office. Any changes or updates to itineraries must be submitted to Commercial Services office a minimum of 3 weeks prior to trips for approval. Not applicable to winter CUA Holders.
11. In conjunction with proposed itineraries, the CUA holder must submit a “Request for VUM Access” form (.xslx) that details which days the holder will need access through the Apgar Checkpoint (May 24 – Sept 8) to access the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR), along with the number of groups and vehicles needing access and where they are going along GTSR corridor. Every request may not be approved. The CUA holder will receive a letter specifying their approved access dates for the Apgar Checkpoint that must be shown to the checkpoint staff. Not applicable to winter CUA Holders.
12. CUA holders are not permitted to travel over Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR) to access Two Medicine and Many Glacier areas of the park and must travel on an alternative route. The exception is that if the approved itinerary consists of locations in GTSR corridor immediately proceeding on the same day or the holder group stayed overnight in GTSR corridor. Not applicable to winter CUA Holders.
13. All trash/recycling shall be placed in open and serviced trash/recycling containers, the Holder shall not dispose of trash/recycling in overflowing or inoperable receptacles and shall locate a serviceable receptacle for disposal or remove refuse from the park. A limited number of trash and recycling receptacles are not maintained in the winter
14. The areas authorized for use under this authorization must be left in the same condition as they were prior to the activities authorized. The Holder shall be liable for any damages to property of the United States resulting from the activities authorized hereunder.
15. CUA holders are not permitted to travel over Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR) to access Two Medicine and Many Glacier areas of the park and must travel on an alternative route. The exception is that if the approved itinerary consists of locations in GTSR corridor immediately proceeding on the same day or the holder group stayed overnight in GTSR corridor.
16. The CUA holder must ensure that all clients and employees maintain a distance of at least 100 yards (91 m) from bears, wolves, and mountain lions. A minimum distance of 25 yards (23 m) is required from moose, elk bighorn sheep, mountain goats, deer, and other animals. Regardless of any distance, if any wild animal changes its behavior due to your group's presence, you are too close.
    
    To protect park wildlife, the following are prohibited:

• Calling, clicking, whistling or making noises of any kind to attract wildlife.
• Failing to remove oneself to prescribed distances during inadvertent, accidental or surprise encounters with wildlife.
• Being within any distance that creates or contributes to a potentially hazardous condition or situation.
• Being within any distance that displaces or interferes with the free unimpeded movement of any wildlife.
• Knowingly approaching within 100 yards of bears, wolves and mountain lions, except when completely inside a legally positioned motor vehicle.
• Knowingly approaching, remaining, viewing, or engaging in any activity within 25 yards of any wildlife, except bears, wolves and mountain lions, or when completely inside a legally positioned motor vehicle.
• Feeding and/or watering of wildlife.

15. Employees must report negative wildlife encounters to the NPS. Wildlife acting in a hazardous or aggressive manner, (e.g. bears frequenting the road, wildlife approaching humans, or bears obtaining human food or garbage), must be reported as soon as possible by contacting the Dispatch Center at [phone].
16. The NPS appreciates reporting of unusual wildlife species, common wildlife species in unusual locations, or wildlife exhibiting unusual behavior. These reports should be relayed to park wildlife staff via email to: [e-mail].
17. The Holder shall not monopolize public areas. All parking areas, restrooms, pullouts, etc. must be available to the general public and cannot be used by the Holder to the exclusion of other park visitors.
18. Food services provided by the Holder in association with the services authorized hereunder shall comply with National Park Service Public Health Guidelines (DO-83) as well as Food and Drug Administration Food Code.
19. The CUA holder or employee shall provide all clients with an orientation prior to the trip which emphasizes safe practices in bear habitat, Leave No Trace ethics, park rules and regulations, and specific nature, demands, and dangers of the particular trip. The Superintendent’s Compendium regarding park regulations can be found on the Glacier National Park Laws & Policies webpage at: www.nps.gov/glac/learn/management/lawsandpolicies.htm
20. Holders and/or Holder’s employees may not carry firearms while providing commercial services within Glacier National Park.
21. Employee Requirements
    • Required guide certifications for specific activities can be found in Tab 2 of the Employee List Template (.xlsx)
    • At a minimum, employees operating in the park must be currently certified in American Red Cross Standard First Aid and CPR. Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification is recommended and may be required for certain activities. The course must include classroom/hands-on instruction and must be accredited.
    • Employees must have current bear training. Bear training consists of one of the following:
      • Employee has attended National Park Service Bear Training within the past three years,
      • Employee has viewed the video Staying Safe in Bear Country, a Behavioral-Based Approach to Reducing Risks (external site - YouTube). This training must be repeated once every three years.
    • Employees must meet additional state and federal requirements for activities being conducted in the park.
22. Employees shall be familiar with the park and understand the hazards involved for the activity. Employees must prepare participants for conditions and situations that may be encountered.
23. Holder must provide a current employee list that meet the required certifications/trainings to the National Park Service prior to starting operations in Glacier using Employee List Template (.xlsx). This is not due with the application. The holder must inform the NPS of any additions to the employee list prior to the employee working in the park by submitting a new Employee List with the date of revision in the document name. Certifications or copies must be kept on file with the CUA holder for the duration of the CUA and must be provided to the NPS upon request.
24. Holder is responsible for ensuring that each employee complies with the terms and conditions of the CUA. The CUA holder shall ensure that each of its employees receives training in and reviews a copy of its CUA including all conditions and stipulations. The NPS reserves the right to request written certification that all employees have received training in and reviewed a copy of the CUA including all conditions, stipulations, and the park compendium.
25. The Company that packaged, priced, and sold the tour is responsible for obtaining a CUA. In the event of a violation or infraction, responsibility and liability will generally be placed on the authorization holder, including citations, warnings, and fines, but the National Park Service retains the right to cite, warn or fine guides and/or drivers associated with a commercial tour regardless of which company is the holder. Transportation companies that are hired by a CUA holder also fall under the terms and conditions of the CUA.
26. The holder and employees are required to exercise courtesy and consideration in their relations with the public and with NPS employees, volunteers or other park agents. The holder will review and correct the conduct of any of its employees whose actions or activities are considered by the Service to be inconsistent with the safety, experience, enjoyment, and protection of visitors and public land.
27. National Park Service staff may participate in guided activities in order to monitor Holder activities. The Holder must accommodate this participation at no charge.
28. Employees must carry basic first aid supplies, in quantities commensurate to the group size and terrain.
29. CUA activities must be conducted in a manner which does not interfere with normal park operations and does not impact the park's natural and cultural resources. Employees are responsible for ensuring all participants follow all park regulations and that no molestation or harassment of wildlife occurs.
30. The holder is responsible for promoting appropriate wildlife ethics as well as safety for their clients.
31. If any insurance claims are filed relating to the Holder’s operations or activities within the park, the Holder must obtain a Claims Status Report from the insurance company and provide a copy to the Commercial Service Office within 15 days of claim.
32. Reporting - Gross Revenue Figures and Visitor Information

• In addition to submitting online monthly reports via the online system, Glacier Monthly Activity Reports must be submitted as Excel files to [e-mail]. Each trip to the park must be reported on a separate row following the instructions included in the template file. The Glacier Monthly Activity Report template can be downloaded from www.nps.gov/glac/getinvolved/cua-application.htm. Glacier Monthly Activity Reports must be submitted by the 15th of the month for the preceding month. If no activity occurred in that month, no Glacier Monthly Activity Report needs to be submitted but the online report should be completed.
• Annual Reports will be provided through the online system for the previous operating year and must be submitted no later than January 31st via the online system. If we do not receive your Annual Report for the previous operating year your CUA issued for the current operating year will be suspended until the Annual Report is submitted. Submission is required even if you did not run any trips. A separate report must be submitted for each authorized activity.
• Management Fees (if applicable) must be paid upon notification from the Commercial Services Office via the online system. If we do not receive your payment of the Management Fee for the previous operating year your CUA issued for the current operating year will be suspended until the Management Fee is paid.
• Failure to submit required activity and annual reporting in a timely manner may impact the holder’s ability to obtain a CUA in future years.

33. This authorization applies only to National Park Service lands and does not grant nor permit commercial activities on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. If you are conducting business on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, you are required to secure a tribal business license. Contact the Blackfeet Revenue Office at [phone] to secure this license. Failure to obtain a Blackfeet Tribal Business License may result in suspension or revocation of this CUA.
34. Failure on the part of the permittee (CUA holder, authorized agents, and employees) to abide by the provisions of the permit (CUA) is citable under 36 CFR Section 1.6 (g) and Section 5.3. and may result in revocation or denial. Glacier National Park CUA Suspension, Restriction, Revocation and Application Denial policy states that an Authorization may be suspended, restricted, revoked or denied when a CUA holder/owner or employee commits a violation as defined by the policy.

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Sites and Short Walks That Are Not Considered Commercially Guided Hikes for CUA Holders

1. Apgar:
   • Paved trails and walks bordered by McDonald Creek, Camas Road, and Going-to-the-Sun Road
2. Avalanche:
   • Trail of the Cedars
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road:
   • Lake McDonald accessible trail
   • McDonald Creek wooden overlook
   • Oberlin Bend walkway
   • Paved walks at Logan Pass
   • Sun Point Overlook
   • Trail between Rising Sun Boat Dock and picnic area
   • Sunrift Gorge
   • Trail between St. Mary Campground and the St. Mary Visitor Center
4. Two Medicine:
   • Running Eagle Falls
5. Many Glacier:
   • Swiftcurrent Nature Trail (around the lake)
6. Goat Haunt:
   • Boat dock to the Snowflake
7. Middle Fork:
   • Goat Lick Overlook Trail
8. Camas Road:
   • Huckleberry Nature Trail

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Activity Specific Conditions

Each approved activity has specific conditions. To become familiar with them, click the respective activity below.

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Guided Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoe (Winter)

General Provisions

1. The Holder is not permitted to conduct guided cross country and/or snowshoeing activities from April 2 - November 19. 
2. The Holder is responsible for contacting Glacier National Park Dispatch at [phone] in advance to notify the NPS of Tier 2 trips (day or overnight) planned in Glacier National Park. This notification will include the authorized Holder name, group leader or guide name(s), number in party, starting point and destination, and dates of the trip.
3.  The only service authorized under this authorization is guided cross country ski and snowshoe tours. Guided tours may include interpretation, as appropriate. Ski lessons, technical training, backcountry skiing (alpine or telemark) and ski mountaineering activities are not authorized.
4.  Guided activities are limited to trail corridor routes, which are defined as routes that follow summer trails as closely as possible within the specific terrain. Guided tours may incidentally travel off of the trail corridor route to immediately avoid hazards, such as avalanche terrain, stream crossings, or other on-route hazards, or where the trail cannot be easily discerned for short distances (e.g. crossing a meadow to return to trail on the other side of the meadow). Employees must immediately lead the group back to the known trail corridor route once the hazard is avoided.
5.  Guided activities shall be conducted on durable surfaces and not in a fashion to degrade tread or impact vegetation. Holders shall refrain from traveling over muddy surfaces or trampling vegetation.
6. Guided activities shall be conducted with 75% of itinerary traveling over snow. The remaining 25% of itinerary may be conducted on pavement or trail. 
7. Mountain passes above tree line may be used only when these routes can be safely used without the aid of technical mountaineering equipment (crampons, ice screws/axe, ropes, etc.); AND: only if the path of travel (ascent and descent) follows the trail corridor route as discussed above. Descents may be done as slow zig-zag traverses within the trail corridor route to slow a cross-country skier’s speed.
8.  Routes that do not offer safe winter passage (commensurate with the training of the employee and the skills of the group) must not be used.
9.  Routes requiring travel off the trail corridor route for a distance of more than a ¼ mile of the trail are not to be used under any circumstances.
10.  If the Holder is unclear whether a specific route is permitted under the CUA, the Holder must contact the Commercial Services office at [e-mail] for clarification at least 72 hours in advance of the tour.
11.  Overnight camping may only occur in designated backcountry campgrounds or in developed front country areas used as winter campgrounds (such as Avalanche Picnic Area and Many Glacier Picnic Area).
12.  Backcountry permits must be obtained for all overnight trips. Contact the Backcountry Permit Office at [phone] between 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Friday for more information.
13.  Use of wood campfires is prohibited under this authorization (day or overnight trips). Self-contained, pressurized stoves (not fueled by wood) may be used for cooking, warming, or device-charging purpose.
14.  An employee must register the group when using trails with registration stations.
15.  Employees shall carry first aid supplies, ski/snowshoe repair equipment, survival gear, and avalanche rescue equipment in quantities as are reasonable for the terrain encountered, the size of the group, and conditions expected.
16.  Employees must carry a two-way communication device. Acceptable devices include a satellite phone, a Delorme inReach two-way satellite communicator, or comparable device. Emergencies must be reported immediately to Glacier Park Dispatch [phone] or 911 (after hours).
17. Holders shall not be permitted to access the park via the Fielding Trail TH near Blacktail/Snowslip. If Holders are unsure of location, it is Holder's responsibility to clarify with Commercial Services office.
18.  Guide Ratio/Party Size
    • The client to guide ratio shall not exceed what is appropriate for safety and under no circumstance shall exceed eight clients for each guide (8:1).
    • Groups associated with treatment programs will be required to have at least two guides with each party regardless of size.
    • For day trips, the maximum total group size shall be eighteen skiers/snowshoers (16 clients and two fully certified guides).
    • For overnight trips, parties will be limited to a total of 12 skiers/snowshoers (ten clients and two fully certified guides).
    •  Any “guides in training,” media or non-paying participants are considered “clients” for the purposes of determining the appropriate guide-to-client ratio and overall party size limit.
19.  Guide Qualification Certification and Documentation
    1. Trails and routes used for cross country skiing/snowshoeing in Glacier National Park are not marked or maintained for such purposes. Guides leading clients into the park must understand the hazards involved and be properly trained and prepared for conditions and situations that may be encountered. The Holder shall ensure that all guides possess the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to safely lead groups on day or (if applicable) overnight trips into the park. Guides shall be knowledgeable in orienteering techniques, avalanche hazards, route selection, winter survival skills, park resource concerns, and Leave No Trace Outdoor Skills and Ethics. Guides must be familiar with the trail and terrain where they are guiding and must be capable of keeping groups within trail corridor routes. Guides must instruct their clients in the appropriate equipment and physical conditioning necessary for the trip.
    2. For the purposes of matching guide training to anticipated risks, Glacier National Park uses two tiers of guides. Each tier has limitations and training requirements (described below).
       1. Qualifications. Minimum training qualifications for guides are
          1. Tier 1 Guides must hold the following qualifications:
             • Current Wilderness First Aid or Current Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) certification.
             • Current CPR certification. 
             • Avalanche Awareness Course. Qualifying refresher course must be taken every three years. 
          2. Tier II Guides must hold the following qualifications:
             • Professional Level I Avalanche Course. Qualifying refresher course must be taken every three years. 
             • Current CPR certification. 
             • Current Wilderness First Aid or Current Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) certification.
       2. Limitations:
          1. Tier II Guides can lead day trip tours on any trails that allow for safe winter passage AND meet all of the conditions of the CUA. Tier II guides can also lead overnight tours, under the provision of a valid backcountry permit. See exceptions listed elsewhere in this Commercial Use Authorization. Administrative actions may be implemented, and access is not guaranteed to all allowable trails.
          2. Tier I Guides can only lead day tours on a limited number of specified trails: Please reference Tier I Trails list below for the specific trails. Further exceptions are:
             • Not beyond Avalanche parking area on the Going-to-the-Sun Road or on the trail to Avalanche Lake. 
             • No travel on the North Shore Trail, the slopes of Sinopah or on to the ice of Two Medicine Lake.
          3. Tier I Trails:
             1. Two Medicine Road to Two Medicine Lake, the Two Medicine camp store/boat dock area; campground/picnic area, and the South Shore trail to the Two Medicine Pass Trail Junction, but no travel on the North Shore Trail, the slopes of Sinopah or on to the ice of Two Medicine Lake.
             2. Cut Bank Road to the Ranger Station. 
             3. Marias Pass to Three Bears Lake, but no further on the Autumn Creek Trail. 
             4. Saint Mary Area: Going-to-the-Sun-Road to the Wild Goose Island Overlook. 
             5. Chief Mountain Road to the Belly River Ranger Station. 
             6. Apgar area horse trails. 
             7. Apgar horse barn area to the Flathead Ranger Station.  
             8. Apgar horse barn area to Apgar Lookout trailhead along quarter circle bridge road, and the road to Rubideau Springs. 
             9. The Camas Road to Fish Creek Campground and the Grist Road.  
             10. The Camas Road/McGee Meadow/Inside Road to Camas Creek. 

 

Revised October 15, 2024

Shoulder Season Shuttle Service

Not yet updated for the 2025 season.
Updated: 11/29/2023

Authorized Activity:

1. The activity authorized by this CUA is shuttles for pedestrians and cyclists during the shoulder season on the following public roadways: the Camas Road, the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Two Medicine Road, and the Many Glacier Road. Use is limited to the paved roadways.
2. Shuttles may transport pedestrians (hikers and walkers) and cyclists (riders with bicycles). This CUA does not authorize equipment delivery or pickup, i.e., transporting a bicycle without a rider on the shuttle.
3. Shuttles must begin and end outside of the park. Additional guests may not be picked up or dropped off inside the park (i.e. meeting an individual at Apgar Visitor Center for transport to Avalanche).
4. Shuttles may operate during daylight hours only (between morning civil twilight and evening civil twilight).
5. This CUA does not authorize any guided activities including vehicle tours or bicycle tours. Bicycle tours are authorized under a separate CUA.

Dates of Authorized Use
Due to Glacier’s large geographic area and varying altitude, different areas open for vehicle traffic at different dates. This CUA grants access to different areas for different time frames, the following table provides an overview with specifics detailed in conditions 6-9.
 

Hiker/Biker Access Point	Spring Season Start Date	Spring Season End Date	Fall Season Allowed?	Maximum Daily Passengers
Going-to-the-Sun Road – West Entrance to Avalanche	April 15 or when the road opens to hiker/biker access, whichever is later	June 30	Yes	Limits apply during hiker/biker and when open to vehicle traffic – see condition 15.
Going-to-the-Sun Road – East Entrance to Sun Point		June 30	Yes	Limits apply when open to vehicle traffic – see condition 15
Camas Road		When the road opens to vehicle traffic	No	N/A
Two Medicine Road		May 31	No	N/A
Many Glacier Road		May 31	No	N/A

 

6. “Hiker/Biker” access is defined as the authorized period of time in the spring and fall when a paved road is closed to public motorized vehicle use, yet portions of the road are available for hiking and biking. For updates of what areas are open to Hiker/Biker use visit: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/directions.htm.
   1. Conditions can change day to day, it is the holder’s responsibility to monitor the website and stay current on changes.
7. Camas Road: Holders may utilize the Apgar Visitor Center parking lot only to drop off or pick up pedestrians and/or cyclists using the Camas Road during Hiker/Biker access. Once Camas Road opens to vehicle traffic, shuttles must not utilize the Apgar Visitor Center. There are no fall dates authorized for this area.
8. Two Medicine and Many Glacier Roads: Holders may only shuttle pedestrians and/or cyclists to and from the Two Medicine and Many Glacier areas through May 31. There are no fall dates authorized for this area. Starting June 1, shuttle service into these areas is authorized through an East Side Shuttle CUA.
9. Going-to-the-Sun Road: Holders must shuttle pedestrians and/or cyclists to the furthest point open to vehicle traffic during hiker/biker on Going-to-the-Sun Road until the road completely opens to vehicle traffic or June 30 whichever is earlier.
   1. If Going-to-the-Sun Road opens completely to vehicle traffic before July 1, then Holders may continue to transport pedestrians but not cyclists to Avalanche Creek on the west side and Sun Point on the east side through June 30. Holders must not travel on the Going-to-the-Sun Road between Avalanche Creek and Sun Point when the road is completely open for vehicle traffic.
   2. Shuttling under this CUA may resume in the fall when Going-to-the-Sun Road closes to vehicle traffic for the season (normally around 3^rd week of October). This CUA ends when conditions no longer allow, the road has been closed for the season, or November 15, whichever comes earlier.

General

10. Shuttles vehicles must be no more than 25 feet in length. The maximum trailer length is 20 feet.) For shuttles on the east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road must meet vehicle size restrictions past Sun Point (max. 21 ft (6.4 m) long, 8 ft (2.4 m) wide, 10 ft (3 m) tall).
11. Shuttles must carry first aid kits in each vehicle.
12. Shuttle vehicles and drivers must meet all Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) requirements for the passenger capacity and type of vehicle being used. 
13. Shuttle drives must hold a valid state driver’s license with all applicable endorsements for the passenger capacity and type of vehicle being used.
14. Parking at drop-off and pick-up locations is prohibited. The holder must use the National Park Service Shuttle stop areas to drop off and pick up passengers and then remove the vehicle from the area. Use of the Shuttle stop area must be expedient. If the shuttle stop area is full, the Holder must find a legal parking space for size of vehicle to drop off or pick up passengers. The holder must not use unattended vehicles or otherwise to reserve or block such areas for future use and may not inhibit traffic flow.
15. When entering the park to drop off or pick up passengers, the driver must drive directly to the designated location without stopping at any additional locations (waysides, viewpoints, trailheads, pullouts, etc.).
16. Only one shuttle per holder may be in each area (the Camas Road, West side Going-to-the-Sun Road, east side Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, or Two Medicine) at one time.
17. Holders may shuttle no more than 100 individuals per day to access the Going-to-the-Sun Road from the west side when the road is closed to vehicle traffic. When the road is open to vehicle traffic, no more than 75 pedestrians may be transported per day to Avalanche or Sun Point combined.
18. Shuttle passengers must have a minimum of one (1) hour between their drop off and pick up times inside the park.

Guided Bicycle Tours (Spring & Summer)

Not yet updated for the 2025 season.
Authorized Activity

1. Guided Bicycle Tours are authorized on the following public roadways: Camas Road, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Two Medicine Road, and Many Glacier Road, when the road is open for hiker/biker access and when open for vehicle traffic.
2. When a paved road is closed to public motorized vehicle use, yet portions of the road are available for biking (known as hiker/biker access), there are additional requirements.
3. All bicycle tour clients must be provided with transportation by the holder. The holder must minimize the number of vehicles parked at all park areas.
4. Over-snow travel is not authorized (e.g. use of fat tire or snow bikes).
5. The segments of roads available for guided bicycle tours will vary depending on road conditions, plowing and road construction activities, and are subject to frequent change. For updates of what areas are open to guided bicycle tours visit: https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/directions.htm.

Tour Leader Requirement, Certification and Documentation

6. An employee of the holder, designated as tour leader/guide, must ride at the rear of the group to assist with bike adjustments and other touring concerns. During hiker/biker, the tour leader/guide must remain in audible contact with the entire group at all times to address hazards or other concerns.
7. Tour leaders/guides must be familiar with the park and supportive of its regulations. Tour leader/guides' duties include monitoring the group for compliance with all park regulations; monitoring conditions to ensure group safety (e.g. awareness of avalanche zones and road conditions including black ice or sections of road without guardrails); assisting participants with bicycle adjustments or repairs; and addressing all anticipated client needs.
8. Tour leaders/guides will inform all clients of regulations, including posted speed limits and the restricted areas during specific times on the Going-to-the-Sun Road:

From June 15 through Labor Day: from Apgar Campground to Sprague Creek Campground, bicycles are prohibited, both directions, between 11 am and 4 pm. Additionally, from Logan Creek to Logan Pass east-bound (uphill) bicycle traffic is prohibited between 11 am and 4 pm. (https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/bicycling.htm).Conditions for

Bicycle Groups

9. Bicycle must follow all rules of the road, including posted speed limit, ride in the appropriate traffic lane during hiker/biker access, maintain control at all times, with focus on downhill biking safety.
10. Each group must be accompanied by a support vehicle accessible to the needs of the participants, therefore bicycle groups can travel only on sections of park roads that are seasonally open to motorized vehicles. Vehicles traveling over the Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR) must not exceed 21 feet in length (including bumpers and bike racks) and eight feet in width (including mirrors). The holder is not authorized to drive a vehicle across the GTSR except as a support vehicle for the bicycle tour. Transport of clients in a vehicle is not permitted between Lake McDonald Lodge and Rising Sun boat dock, except in cases of injury or exhaustion. Exceptions to the requirement of having a support vehicle must be proposed to the National Park Service in writing.
11. Tour leaders/guides must ensure that clients do not rest bicycles in the roadway or on roadside vegetation. Kickstands or bicycle racks must be used.
12. Parking lots are only available to holders for client unloading and parking. Other services such as food distribution/picnicking, orientation, or other activities can only occur in the designated picnic areas located at Apgar, Avalanche, Sun Point, Rising Sun, and Two Medicine, or in the Logan Creek pullout (large paved pull off with toilets, located at mile 20 on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, west of the Continental Divide), Grizzly Point pullout (large paved pullout with toilets, located at mile 37 on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, east of the Continental Divide), and on a limited basis at the parking associated with lodging facilities (see conditions 5 & 6 below). Bicycle groups are not permitted to eat lunch in the Logan Pass area. Additional parking must be arranged outside the park if needed.
13. Holders cannot use more than three parking spaces total at any one location, at any time, for any use. Holder use of parking areas at the Lake McDonald Lodge and the Many Glacier Hotel is further limited to two parking spaces. Additional parking at Many Glacier is generally available at the paved pullout east of the boat launch area and must be utilized should the holder have the need for more than two parking spots. Holder's vehicles must be legally parked. The holder is prohibited from parking on vegetation or blocking access or impeding the flow of traffic along any roads, trails, walkways, or any NPS or concessioner facilities.
14. Parking spots, picnic area sites, roadside pullouts and other public use areas are managed on a first come, first served basis. Holders cannot use unattended vehicles to reserve or block such areas for future use. CUA staff may arrive in advance of clients to set up food distribution or orientation activities; however this cannot exceed one hour prior to client arrival.
15. Incidental Transportation: CUA holders are authorized for incidental stops at visitor centers, restaurants, wayside exhibits, and limited walks that are not considered commercial guided hiking (see list at: https://www.nps.gov/glac/getinvolved/cua-conditions.htm#NoncommercialWalks).
16. Support vehicles (including trailers) shall not be left overnight in parking areas not associated with lodging (e.g. Two Medicine parking areas) without prior NPS approval, with the exception of the Apgar Visitor Center parking lot, which can be used on a space-available basis.
17. Bike tour groups with clients booked overnight at lodging facilities within the park must coordinate any use of lawns or public areas associated with the lodging facility with the Concessioner’s onsite Location Manager.
18. Tour leaders are responsible for ensuring that basic first aid supplies and bicycle repair equipment is readily available in quantities commensurate to the group size, the terrain encountered, and the conditions expected.
19. Group size:
    1. When riding on a road open to vehicle traffic the group size is limited to 30 including leaders/guides. All participants will ride single file. The holder must regulate participant riders on its bicycle tours so that the entire group is broken into groups of no more than four riders per group, each group spaced apart by approximately one-quarter mile. If other bicyclists are encountered, groups may have to re-distribute riders so the total number of bikes does not exceed four riders in a group.
    2. When riding in a hiker/biker access area, the group size is limited to 15 including leaders/guides on weekdays. Weekends and federal holidays are limited to a group size of seven (including tour leaders/guides). The tour leader/guide must always remain in audible contact with the entire group to address hazards or other concerns.
20. If more than four motor vehicles are following a bicycle rider or group of riders, the individual rider or group must safely pull to the side and allow the vehicles to pass. Prior to the authorization being issued, the holder shall provide the Commercial Services office with a completed itinerary for each trip planned.
21. The holder is not authorized to provide guided hikes in the park. Commercially guided hikes must be arranged through the park guided hiking concessioner, Glacier Guides, Inc. The holder must be accompanied by a guide from Glacier Guides to travel by vehicle between Lake McDonald Lodge and Rising Sun Motor Inn if accessing trailheads for hiking. The holder is not authorized to transport clients between Lake McDonald and Rising Sun to tour the Going-to-the-Sun Road. For a list of the limited number of stops and short walks in the park on which a commercial operator may accompany their clients (not classified as a commercially guided hiking activity) looks at the Non-commercial Short Walks and Stop. No additional charges may be made for this service. These are the only trails where clients may be taken without using the services of the authorized day hiking concessioner, Glacier Guides.
22. E-bikes, defined as an electric bicycle equipped with a motor (not more than 750 watts) that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour, are permitted under this CUA. The motor may not be used to propel an e-bike without the rider also pedaling. E-bikes are allowed where traditional bicycles are allowed.
23. Use of speakers or other sound amplification in is not permitted.
24. Client Equipment:
    1. Bicycles must use flashing lights on both the front and rear of the bicycle at all times while on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Lights are highly encouraged to be used on other park roads.
    2. A bicycle helmet must be worn by all participants, including staff, while bicycling inside the park. The helmet must be approved by CSPC, ASTM, Snell, or equivalent foreign standard for bicycle use. The holder shall make helmets available to each of its participants free of charge.
    3. All participants and employees will be required to display an item that makes the group readily identifiable to NPS staff and distinguish the group from others. The holder will submit a description and/or photograph (as appropriate) of the identifying item.
    4. The park also strongly recommends wearing high visibility clothing.
25. The following conditions apply for tours occurring during hiker/biker access.
    1. Employees must carry a Wilderness First Aid certification or higher.
    2. Tour leaders/guides must carry and be trained in the use of defensive bear pepper spray.
    3. Employees must carry a two-way communication device. Acceptable devices include a satellite phone, a Delorme inReach two-way satellite communicator, or comparable device. Emergencies must be reported immediately to Glacier Park Dispatch [phone] or 911 (after hours)
    4. Holders are limited to two bicycle tours per day in each area (Going to the Sun Road each side and west side, Camas Road, Two Medicine or Many Glacier Road).
    5. Parking at Avalanche Creek is very limited. If a vehicle/trailer combination unit is used to transport bicycles and clients, the holder must drop off and pick up the clients, guides and bicycles in the National Park Service Shuttle loop area and remove the vehicle/trailer unit from the Avalanche Creek area. Use of the Shuttle loop area must be expedient. Trailer parking may be available at Lake McDonald Lodge. If parking is available in legal public parking areas at Avalanche Creek, vans or other single-unit vehicles (no trailers or other towed units) can be parked in public parking areas.

Instructional Photography & Painting Workshops (Summer)

Not yet updated for the 2025 season.

1. Authorized Activity
   1. The CUA allows for the CUA holder to conduct day and night use photography or day use plein air art workshops in Glacier National Park. Overnight trips into the backcountry are not authorized.
   2. Workshops will include modality instruction led by a qualified instructor with expertise in teaching field skills in that modality and familiarity with Glacier National Park. Workshops will focus on use of skills to capture images of park resources.
2. Definitions
   1. Photography Workshops: An organized group using an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold as a guided photography instructional session. Photography Workshops embrace the scenic, cultural, and/or natural resources of Glacier National Park to create a facilitated or instructional experience designed to provide a photography opportunity and improve a photographer’s skills and/or photography techniques.
   2. Painting Workshops: An organized group using an itinerary that has been packaged, priced, or sold as a guided painting instruction session. During these sessions, visitors are provided painting and related art instruction and/or facilitated opportunities that embrace the scenic, cultural, and/or natural resources of Glacier National Park.
   3. Day Use: Half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset. 
3. Workshop Leader Certification and Workshop Documentation
   1. An employee of the holder, designated as Workshop Leader, shall accompany the group, providing art instruction to group participants. A professional biography of the employee must be provided to the park with the CUA application, demonstrating the employee’s field art instruction experience.
   2. In addition, a curriculum for the workshop shall be provided to the park with the CUA application, including a workshop outline that defines the instructional objectives, teaching methods and techniques and skills that will be taught to workshop participants.
   3. Prior to issuance of this authorization, the holder shall provide the Superintendent with a completed itinerary for each workshop for NPS approval (see Application Form Attachment B). The holder must adhere to approved itineraries for all art workshops.
   4. Each guide must carry a minimum of one can of bear spray and be trained in its use. Guide's bear spray must be accessible such as on a waist belt or shoulder harness. Bear spray for clients is strongly recommended.

4. 1. 1. • Conditions for Photography & Art Workshops
           1. Group size is limited to twelve (12) individuals, including employees at one instruction/workshop site at a time. If a group disperses an employee must accompany each dispersed group.
           2. Participants will stay on trails to avoid trampling vegetation. No off-trail hiking or activities are authorized. For Night Photography, use of trails in not permitted and must occur at locations stated below under condition 5.h.
           3. The use of tripods or easels is limited to a total of eight at any one instruction site at any given time.
           4. Tripods or easels shall only be set up on pavement, gravel, or other hardened surfaces. No tripods or easels shall be set up on vegetated areas and setups cannot impede use of the area by other visitors.
           5. The use of models, props, sets, lighting, and other specialized equipment are not allowed under this authorization. Photography and videography equipment allowed in this authorization is limited to hand-held equipment and tripods (e.g. SLR cameras, micro 4/3rd cameras, action cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, etc.) Holders wishing to utilize models, non-incidental props, sets, lighting, and other specialized equipment in association with this CUA may need to obtain a special use permit if their activity includes non-low-impact filming or photography. For more information please visit Film, Photography, and Sound Recording Permits.
           6. Arrangements for any classroom instructional sessions must be made in advance with Glacier National Park Lodges or must occur at facilities outside of the park. No government facilities are available for classroom instruction.
           7. Participants (and vehicles) will be dispersed so as to not block access or interfere with the use of park by other visitors. Busy locations, such as Logan Pass at mid-day, are to be avoided.
           8. If the Authorization holder does not provide transportation for workshop participants, any commercial transportation services must be arranged through park Concessioners (Glacier National Park Lodges or Sun Tours) for transportation on the Going-to-the-Sun Road between Lake McDonald Lodge and Rising Sun.
           9. The holder is limited to a maximum of three (3) vehicle to transport workshop participants. In 2025, the holder will be required to transport all workshop participants in one vehicle. The use of vans or carpooling is encouraged to reduce congestion. Vehicles must be parked in such a manner that the normal flow of traffic is not inhibited.
           10. All painting brush-cleaning liquids must be collected and disposed of outside of the park. Under no circumstances shall cleaning liquids be disposed of by pouring out on pavement, trails, dirt, or elsewhere in the park.
           11. Materials to absorb and clean up accidental spills of paint, dirtied water, turpentine, etc., shall be carried in the support vehicle.
         • Conditions for Night Sky Photography Workshops (Applicable in addition to conditions above)
           1. Detailed itineraries including dates, times, and specific locations for all night sky photography portions of workshops must be submitted with the CUA application. See condition H below for a list of approved night sky photography locations. Locations not included in condition H must be approved by the park in advance. The holder must adhere to submitted itineraries for all night sky photography portions of workshops.
           2. Participants will stay on paved or hardened areas to avoid trampling vegetation. Tripods shall only be set up on pavement, gravel or other hardened surfaces.
           3. No twilight or nighttime guided hiking, use of trails or any off-trail activities are allowed for night sky photography workshops.
           4. No spotlights or other lighting installations are permitted.
           5. Use of laser pointers to point out celestial objects is limited to commercial class IIIa green laser pointers with five milliwatts (mW) or lower power, aimed above the local horizon. Laser pointers must not be pointed at persons, vehicles, aircraft or wildlife.
           6. The holder must ensure participant safety and must ensure that while operating in low-light situations, extreme care is taken to ensure participants are visible in the dark to other motorists and must not set up in trafficked areas.
           7. Camping is permitted only in designated campgrounds; sleeping in vehicles along roadsides or in parking lots is not permitted.
           8. The locations listed below are approved for night sky photography during the authorization period. Locations not listed are subject to review and not guaranteed for night sky photography under this Commercial Use Authorization. * Not available when in use for National Park Service programs and other authorized events.
              1. Many Glacier:
                 • Many Glacier Hotel beach
              2. St. Mary:
                 • Logan Pass* (Paved areas around visitor center only. No use of boardwalk permitted.
                 • St. Mary Lake shoreline near Rising Sun Picnic Area
                 • Sun Point
                 • Wild Goose Island Pullout (Main-East)
                 • Wild Goose Island Pullout (West)
              3. Two Medicine:
                 • Two Medicine lakeshore by campground
                 • Two Medicine lakeshore by concessions boat dock
              4. Lake McDonald:
                 • McGee Meadow Overlook
                 • Apgar Village lakeshore by public dock
                 • Apgar Amphitheater*
                 • Apgar Picnic Area
                 • Fish Creek Picnic Area
                 • 7-mile Pullout (Sandy Point)
                 • 10-mile Pullout (Jackson Bay)
                 • Lake McDonald Lodge beach
                 • The Loop (Upper parking lot only)
                 • Big Bend Pullout

Instructional Birding Workshop (Summer)

Not yet updated for the 2025 season.
Authorized Services

1. The commercial activity authorized by this authorization is conducting day use birding workshops in Glacier National Park. Day use is defined as half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset.
2. Workshops will include birding instruction led by a qualified instructor with expertise in teaching field birding and familiarity with Glacier National Park. Overnight trips into the backcountry are not authorized.

General

3. Each group shall be accompanied by a support vehicle which is accessible to the needs of the participants.
4. Workshop Leaders must carry basic first aid supplies, in quantities commensurate to the group size and terrain.
5. Workshops will be conducted in a manner which does not interfere with normal park operations and does not impact the park's natural and cultural resources. The Workshop Leader is responsible for ensuring all participants follow all park regulations and that no molestation or harassment of wildlife occurs.
6. The holder is responsible for promoting appropriate wildlife ethics in photography as well as safety for their clients.
7. Participants will stay on trails to avoid trampling vegetation. No off-trail hiking or activities are authorized.
8. Arrangements for any classroom instructional sessions must be made in advance with Glacier National Park Lodges or must occur at facilities outside of the park. No government facilities are available for classroom instruction.
9. Participants (and vehicles) will be dispersed so as to not block access or interfere with the use of park by other visitors. Busy locations, such as Logan Pass at mid-day, are to be avoided.
10. If the Authorization holder does not provide transportation for workshop participants, any commercial transportation services must be arranged through park Concessioners (Glacier National Park Lodges or Sun Tours) for transportation on the Going-to-the-Sun Road between Lake McDonald Lodge and Rising Sun.
11. The holder is limited to a maximum of three (3) vehicle to transport workshop participants. In 2025, the holder will be required to transport all workshop participants in one vehicle. The use of vans or carpooling is encouraged to reduce congestion. Vehicles must be parked in such a manner that the normal flow of traffic is not inhibited.
12. Group size is limited to twelve including Workshop Leaders.
13. The use of vans, shuttles, or carpooling is encouraged to reduce congestion. Vehicles must be parked in such a manner that the normal flow of traffic is not inhibited.

Workshop Leader Certification and Workshop Documentation

14. An employee of the holder, designated as Workshop Leader, shall accompany the group, providing field instruction in birding to group participants. A professional biography of the Workshop Leader must be provided to the park with the CUA application, demonstrating the Workshop Leader’s birding instruction experience.
15. In addition, a curriculum for the workshop shall be provided to the park with the CUA application, including a workshop outline that defines the instructional objectives, teaching methods and techniques and skills that will be taught to workshop participants.
16. Prior to issuance of this authorization, the holder shall provide the Superintendent with a completed itinerary for each workshop (see Application Form).
17. Tour leaders/guides must carry and be trained in the use of defensive bear pepper spray.

East Side Shuttle Service (Summer)

Not yet updated for the 2025 season.
Authorized Activity 

1. The activity authorized by this CUA is limited visitor shuttle services on the east side of the park with drop off and pick up of passengers in Glacier National Park at designated locations in developed areas:  
   1. Two Medicine Campstore (designated Red Bus parking) 
   2. Rising Sun boat dock parking lot 
   3. Rising Sun Campstore parking lot 
   4. Many Glacier Hotel porte-cochere 
   5. Swiftcurrent Motor Inn/campstore parking lot 
2. This CUA does not authorize the holder to conduct motor vehicle tours. 
3. This CUA is not authorized to travel on Going-to-the-Sun Road except between the St. Mary entrance and Rising Sun boat dock. 
4. This CUA does not authorize shuttle services on the west side of the park through the west entrance, camas entrance or North Fork. 
5. Holder shall not solicit customers on NPS land. Business transactions on park lands are prohibited. 
6. The CUA holder must not have more than one vehicle in an area (Two Medicine, St. Mary to Rising Sun, or Many Glacier/Swiftcurrent) at one time. 

Vehicle and Driver Requirements 

7. Authorized vehicle capacity is limited to 15 people including the driver. The use of larger vehicles must be approved by the Superintendent prior to their use in the Park. Under no circumstances shall passenger capacity be exceeded. 
8. Shuttle vehicles must be maintained in safe, operable, and clean condition, and marked with company name (see Park-wide Condition 6. CUA Identification). 
9. Shuttle vehicles and drivers must meet all Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) requirements for the passenger capacity and type of vehicle being used. 
10. Shuttle drives must hold a valid state driver’s license with all applicable endorsements for the passenger capacity and type of vehicle being used. 
11. Drivers must always remain with their vehicles. 
12. A list of all vehicles and license plate numbers to be used in the operation and a list of drivers must be provided to the National Park Service before the permit is issued. It is the Holder’s responsibility to continuously update the list of drivers and vehicles and provide proof that vehicles are covered by insurance. The park reserves the right to refuse entry to any previously undeclared driver or vehicle.  

Operational Requirements 

13. A tentative schedule including pickup and drop off locations and times and associated rates must be provided to the National Park Service.
14. Shuttle routes, shuttle frequency, and other operational matters are subject to review and revision as circumstances arise. This Authorization is subject to change per National Park Service discretion. 
15. Each time the CUA holder vehicle enters the park, the driver must (1) identify themselves to the entrance station staff, (2) show a copy of the CUA (paper or electronic copy), (3) state they are providing shuttle services, and (4) facilitate payment of visitor entrance fees. 
16. Visitors must be informed at the time of reservation that they will be assessed entrance fees and instructed to bring their receipt/pass with them in the event they have already paid entrance fees to the Park. This information must also be posted clearly in the shuttle vehicles, reservation confirmation, and company website (if applicable). 
17. Seat belt laws must be obeyed; all passengers must be instructed to wear seat belts at all times. The driver is solely responsible for insuring passenger seatbelt compliance.  
18. Drivers must, at all times, obey all speed limits, traffic regulations, road closures and parking regulations. 
19. All drivers must advise their passengers where a designated waiting area is to ensure passenger safety. 
20. When entering the park to drop off or pick up passengers, the driver must drive directly to the designated location (described under Activity Conditions 1.a) without stopping at any additional locations (waysides, viewpoints, trailheads, pullouts, etc.). The driver must exit the park directly after completing the service.   
21. Loading/Unloading Requirements 
    1. Vehicles may only park in legal parking spaces. Vehicles may drop off and pick up passengers in a bus loading and unloading zone or, if unable, in a no-parking zone or “double-park”, but only for the duration of time it takes for the entire group together to load and unload and must move promptly when needed by emergency vehicles or double-parked owners. The vehicles may not wait for the passengers to return one by one. 
    2. The CUA holder may use the NPS shuttle stop near the Rising Sun boat dock for loading and unloading so long as the service does not conflict with the NPS shuttle. 
    3. The CUA holder may not block traffic at any time, including when loading or off-loading passengers. 
    4. Commercial vehicles must remain in the designated locations (described under Activity Conditions 1.a) only long enough to load and unload passengers; not to exceed 10 minutes per trip.  
    5. Engines must be shut off while the vehicle is parked. 
22. The CUA holder must leave the Park between shuttles times and may not remain in the area.  
23. Violations (traffic and non-traffic) by the CUA Holder, their employees, representatives, or operating entities may result in revocation of this CUA or additional monitoring at the CUA holders’ expense.