Traveling through the scenic yet challenging Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park requires careful planning, especially during winter. From November through May, the risks posed by avalanches and limited parking mean commercial truck drivers should be well-versed in stopping restrictions and plan for necessary rest breaks before or after entering the area.
Commercial trucks are allowed to stop for up to 30 minutes within the Rogers Pass summit area. However, overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles is strictly prohibited. Due to ongoing avalanche risks and limited space, trucks cannot park for extended periods within the restricted zones.
Drivers are advised to use the designated areas in Glacier National Park:
- Eastbound: Sir Donald Rest Area, located 7.8 km west of Rogers Pass.
- Westbound: East Glacier Rest Area, 17.3 km east of Rogers Pass.
Both rest areas offer limited parking and should be considered only for short stops to maintain traffic flow and safety for all highway users.
To reduce avalanche risk exposure, stopping is restricted along most of the Rogers Pass summit area. Commercial vehicles can make brief stops (under 30 minutes) at the Rogers Pass washroom building or designated chain-up/removal areas. Outside of these specific areas, stopping is strictly prohibited between Sir Donald Rest Area (7.8 km west of the pass) and the Beaver Valley chain-up area (11 km east).
If utilizing the washroom building:
- Park on the highway side of the parking area, leaving the space in front of the building clear.
- Exercise caution when entering and exiting the parking area, as pedestrians may be present.
Safety and operational concerns drive these restrictions. Overnight parking is not allowed to ensure clear access for snow removal and emergency highway closures. Snow clearing is ongoing throughout winter, maintaining safe vehicle parking areas if closures become necessary.
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Courtesy of Trans Canada Highway*