This year’s trend of increased visitation to Glacier National Park continued in August, putting the park 13 percent ahead of visitor numbers for the first eight months of 2011.

More than 1.7 million people have entered the park so far through August, 13.6 percent more than last year’s 1.5 million.

August visitation was up 12.9 percent with 601,339 people entering the park. July was the busiest month this summer, with more than 630,000 visitors.

“This summer has been busy with many visitors enjoying the opportunity to discover the park’s spectacular beauty and rich history,” Glacier Superintendent Chas Cartwright said. “We look forward to seeing additional visitors this fall when changing foliage and increased opportunities for solitude can be experienced.”

Record numbers also have visited the park through its social media sites. As a leader of social media efforts within the National Park Service, Glacier has more than 123,000 “likes” on Facebook and more than 8,600 followers on Twitter.

The Going-to-the-Sun shuttle system served almost 140,000 passengers this summer. The free system provides access for visitors to locations along Sun Road and helps reduce traffic congestion while road rehabilitation work is under way.

Visitors are reminded that the last day to reach Logan Pass from the west will be Sept. 16.

Vehicle traffic will be restricted at Avalanche Creek on the west side starting Sept. 17, allowing for accelerated rehabilitation work on Sun Road. East-side access to Logan Pass will be available through Oct. 14.

Entrance fees will be waived for National Public Lands Day on Sept. 29.

Cartwright encourages locals to enjoy and learn more about the park through a variety of ranger-led activities that continue through Sept. 23. Guided hikes, boat tours and evening programs are offered regularly and most are free of charge.

More information about park programs is available by calling 888-7800 or can be found online at: http://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/index.htm