Airport Travel Alerts — Missoula & Northwest Montana
Missoula International Airport (MSO)
- MSO remains fully operational year-round with regular commercial service.
- Always check with your airline before traveling for the latest schedules and advisories.
Kalispell / Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) — Summer 2026 Service Adjustments
Runway rehabilitation project planned in July 2026 will affect operations at Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell.
There will be phased weekday closures for minimal disruption throughout the month of July.
Runway Closed
- Monday at 6:00 p.m. – Friday at 10:00 a.m.
Closure Dates:
- July 6–10
- July 13–17
- July 20–24
- July 27–31
The runway will reopen for flights every weekend (Friday–Monday), to align with peak travel demand and maintain service during construction. Runway 12-30 (small aircraft runway) will remain open throughout the project with the exception of the July 27-31 closure dates.
Nighttime Work in September
Approximately 15 nightly closures between 12:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. will be required for runway surface grooving. This work will be complete by October 1. This is essential for creating adequate friction for winter flight operations. These short late-night closures are not expected to impact flight schedules.
Travelers planning to visit Glacier Country in July 2026 may consider flying into Missoula (MSO) as they are only 2.5 hours away by car. Check out rental cars from MSO here.
Glacier National Park — 2026 Season Update
Starting in 2026, vehicle entry registration for Going-to-the-Sun Road will no longer be required.
What you need to know:
- Park Entry: A valid park pass is still required to enter Glacier National Park.
- Parking Changes: New parking management will be in effect, including a 3-hour parking limit at Logan Pass. Plan accordingly.
- Tip for Visitors: Consider using shuttles to reduce wait times and avoid parking stress.
- Construction Delays and Closure: Read more about delays and closures here in Glacier National Park.
Yellowstone National Park
What you need to know:
- Park Entry: A valid park pass is required to enter Yellowstone National Park.
- No vehicle registrations are required to enter Yellowstone National Park.
- Tips for Visitors: Be sure to check road conditions if you are traveling through Montana’s Yellowstone Country here.
- Construction Delays and Closure: Read more about delays or any closures here in Yellowstone National Park.
Road Travel & Highway Conditions
Montana Road Conditions
- Winter and transitional seasons bring snow, ice and mountain weather impacts.
- Use the Montana Department of Transportation travel tools for real-time road conditions and alerts.
- Wildfires are common during the summer months. Check current fire conditions in the area you’re visiting to stay informed and safe.
Travel Through Mountain Passes
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes and reduced visibility in canyon areas, especially in the shoulder seasons. Use the MDT 511 or download the app to check weather conditions easily on passes you may be traveling through.
General Travel Tips & Resources
Plan Ahead
- Summer, fall color season and long holiday weekends are peak travel times. Plan lodging, services and park reservations early so you can relax and enjoy your trip once you arrive.
Transportation Options
- Consider regional travel combinations such as flying into Missoula and driving north, or using Amtrak’s Empire Builder service to reach locations in northwest Montana.
- Rental cars are always a great option to get around or if you are staying within Missoula, try to bus!
Visitor Resources
- Destination Missoula and local visitor centers can help with local event calendars, road conditions and sightseeing tips.
- The National Park Service and Montana DOT provide official updates for Glacier National Park access and statewide travel conditions.
Outdoor Safety & Responsible Recreation
One Less Spark
Before heading out, we encourage visitors to stay informed about current fire and smoke conditions in Missoula and throughout Montana. Fire danger can change quickly during warmer months, so checking conditions ahead of time helps keep both visitors and local communities safe. Learn about current conditions and the simple precautions you can take to help prevent wildfires by visiting Montana’s official state resources.
Leave No Trace
Keeping Missoula’s outdoor spaces clean starts with each of us. If you pack it in, pack it out. Stay on designated trails to protect natural areas and reduce erosion, and be mindful of other trail users along the way.
Learn more about the many ways you can recreate responsibly while exploring Missoula and the surrounding public lands.
Learn more about the many ways you can recreate responsibly while exploring Missoula and the surrounding public lands.
