Commercial Use Authorization

CUA Program Updates

 
 

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The National Park Service requires specific authorizations for commercial businesses to operate in national parks, usually in the form of a Commercial Use Authorization. If a business does not have a Commercial Use Authorization, they may not operate in the park.

Commercial service opportunities in Glacier National Park are reviewed annually and subject to change year to year. 

 
 

What is a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA)?

Public Law 105-391, Section 418, which was signed in 1998, provides for the issuance of Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) to a private person, corporation, or other entity to provide suitable commercial services for park area visitors. Commercial activities are generally prohibited in National Parks unless authorized by a CUA or concessions contract.

 
Biking Glacier's roads offers stunning views of the landscape.
Spring biking on the Going to the Sun Road

NPS Photo

What Activities are Authorized Through a CUA?

Glacier National Park currently issues CUAs for the following activities. All CUAs are issued for up to one operating season. The CUA operating season depends on the activity.

Winter Season

Guided Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Tours
Day and/or overnight guided cross-country ski and snowshoe tours. This does not authorize backcountry skiing.

Spring & Summer Season

Shoulder Season Shuttle Service
Shuttle service for the purpose of picking up and dropping off visitors within Glacier National Park during the shoulder seasons.
Guided Bicycle Tours
Guided bicycle road tours during daylight hours on roads open to hiker/biker access and motorized traffic.
Photography/Art Workshops
Day and/or night photography workshops and art woskshops that includes in-depth instruction.
Birding Workshops
Day use birding workshops that include birding instruction.
East Side Shuttle Services
A scheduled shuttle service for the purpose of picking up and dropping off visitors within Glacier National Park’s east side at designated locations.

 

Services Not Permitted

These types of commercial services are prohibited in Glacier National Park. These are some of the services not allowed through the Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) Program or authorized under any other permit in Glacier National Park:

  • Guided Motorcycle Tours
  • Delivery or pick-up of any out-of-park rentals by a third party, including, but not limited to, the following:
    • RVs or other camper units
    • Bicycles
 
Everything you need to know about submitting a CUA application - forms, instructions & resources!
Application & Reporting Requirements

Everything you need to know about submitting a CUA application–application forms, instructions & resources

 
 

Contact Us

If you have any questions regarding the CUA application process or requirements, please contact the Commercial Services Office at glac_cua@nps.gov.

Last updated: November 1, 2024

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 128
West Glacier, MT 59936

Phone:

406-888-7800

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