Key Takeaways
- All drones prohibited within Glacier National Park under NPS Policy Memorandum 14-05
- Flathead National Forest surrounds much of the park with legal flying opportunities
- Best alternatives: Hungry Horse Reservoir, Swan Range foothills, and areas along Highway 2
Glacier National Park offers some of North America's most dramatic alpine scenery—glacial lakes, rugged peaks, and pristine wilderness. While drones are banned inside the park, Montana's vast National Forest land provides spectacular alternatives.
⚠️ Important: Glacier National Park strictly prohibits all drone operations. With over 3 million annual visitors, rangers actively patrol. Fines range from $1,000 to $5,000.
Understanding the Glacier Drone Ban
Glacier follows the standard NPS drone prohibition. The park's grizzly bear population and sensitive alpine ecosystems make enforcement particularly stringent:
- No launching, landing, or operating drones within park boundaries
- Flying over the park from outside is also prohibited
- All drone types banned, including sub-250g models
- Wildlife disturbance penalties can be severe
Legal Flying Alternatives Near Glacier
Glacier is surrounded by Flathead National Forest, which generally allows recreational drone use:
Top Flying Locations
Hungry Horse Reservoir
South of the park in Flathead NF. Dramatic mountain reflections on the reservoir. Multiple access points with parking.
Swan Range Foothills
Southeast of the park. Mountain views with meadows and forests. Less crowded than areas closer to Glacier.
Highway 2 Corridor (Marias Pass Area)
National Forest land along the southern boundary. Mountain passes and scenic overlooks.
Whitefish Range
Northwest of the park. Forested mountains with alpine lakes. Verify you are outside wilderness boundaries.
Important Wilderness Considerations
Several designated wilderness areas adjoin Glacier where drones may also be restricted:
- Bob Marshall Wilderness: South of the park—verify drone policies
- Great Bear Wilderness: Adjacent to park boundaries—check restrictions
- Use OnX Maps or Gaia GPS to verify land status before flying
Tips for Flying Near Glacier
- Weather changes rapidly: Mountain weather is unpredictable—monitor conditions closely
- Wildlife awareness: Grizzly bears range outside park boundaries—be aware of your surroundings
- Short flying season: Snow limits access to many areas from October through May
- Altitude considerations: High elevation affects battery performance and flight characteristics
- Morning is best: Calm winds and clear skies are most common at dawn
Penalties for Flying in Glacier NP
- First offense: $1,000-$2,500 fine typical
- Repeat/serious offense: Up to $5,000 fine
- Wildlife disturbance: Additional charges under the Endangered Species Act possible
- Equipment confiscation: Rangers can seize your drone
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly a drone anywhere in Glacier National Park?
No. All drone operations are prohibited within Glacier National Park. This includes launching, landing, and flying over the park from adjacent land.
Where can I legally fly a drone near Glacier?
Flathead National Forest surrounds much of Glacier and generally allows recreational drone use. Popular spots include Hungry Horse Reservoir, Swan Range foothills, and areas along Highway 2. Avoid designated wilderness areas.
When is the best time to fly near Glacier?
The summer months (June-September) offer the best conditions with accessible roads and stable weather. Early mornings provide calm winds and the best light for mountain photography.
Are there grizzly bears where I can fly near Glacier?
Yes. Grizzly bears range throughout the Glacier ecosystem, including National Forest land. Be bear-aware when accessing remote flying locations—carry bear spray and make noise.