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Backpacker Magazine – August 2008

Glacier National Park

Scramble up class III peaks and cross late summer snowfields on this strenuous but straightforward trip through Montana's big-mountain country.

by: Steve Howe

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Beargrass Along Highline Trail (Cathy & Gordon Illg)
Beargrass Along Highline Trail (Cathy & Gordon Illg)
Dawson Pass Above Nyack Valley (Kirkendall-Spring)
Dawson Pass Above Nyack Valley (Kirkendall-Spring)

Glacier may be petite compared to America's bigger parks–at just over one million acres, it ranks 15th on the NPS size chart–but it sure feels huge on foot. The twisted topography packs 151 trails, 653 lakes, 37 glaciers, and 175 peaks into 1,583 square miles. Grizzly bears, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep roam the wildflower meadows and granite folds. For hikers, the sum is much greater than the parts, and what they add up to is America's most beautiful mountain park.


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READERS COMMENTS

Just back from Glacier 7/23/11- many higher trails and backcountry camps still closed due to snow so forcing lots of hikers to camp at lower level sites. Get your permits early and be flexible. Hiked and camped at Kintla Lake and Upper Kintla Lake - beautiful. Snowed in the mountains above us one night. Saw black bear on the trail and at camp. Beautiful flowers.
Posted: Jul 27, 2011 Kathryn Harvey

Going to Sun Road opened LATEST ever last week July 12. Did Loop Trail to Granite Chalet (all up hill.) Last mile over snow. Coming down saw 3 Griz on ridge to east. Great flowers. Saw several deer close up.


Did the Pegan Pass Trail part way (four hours in) and it was over snow (July 14)about 95% of the way. Most snow ever seen at Glacier. Saw goats and two rams west of creek just starting out.

Did short Apikuni Falls hike and it was worth it. Don't let mile+ up fool you. Up hill. Lots of snow around falls. Be sure and safely climb on and see pool at base of falls.

Did hike at Bowman Lake area. Nice ride up to this NW area but hike was not worth it.

As of July 15 rangers said Highline Trail likely would NOT be open this summer at all. Too much snow.

Swiftcurrent Trail was nice, but just too many folks first couple miles. Great views and flowers and even snow for last snowcone before heading back to Georgia.

Avoid Avalanche Lake Trail unless you head out EARLY. Every body and his brother hikes that trail mid morning on.

In fact suggest early start on all trails in Glacier. Great cabins to stay at in Coram just on Highway 2 7 miles from park (west side). Peaceful Escapes by a store. $80 a night and brand new with kitchenettes even. Eat nearby at Glacier Grill. Great food and service.
Posted: Jul 21, 2011 Jim Hall

I was there on the CDT project last summer and can't wait to return. The mountains at sunset are too beautiful to describe.
Posted: Sep 05, 2008 Scott Sanders

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