U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Angus King (I-Maine), along with Senators Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.), have recently introduced the “America the Beautiful Act.” The bill would reauthorize the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) and increase funding for public land management.
“People travel from every corner of the world to connect with America’s incredible natural beauty and to make memories that last a lifetime,” said King. “However, deferred repairs on aging infrastructure like roads and trails can become unsafe for visitors and diminish the quality of our public lands and National Parks. The bipartisan America the Beautiful Act protects our lands and the visitor experience — by addressing maintenance backlogs and reauthorizing the historic Legacy Restoration Fund. This legislation is an important step forward in establishing lasting protections for our public lands, and serves as a proud reminder that stewardship is not a partisan issue.”
“The Great American Outdoors Act brought real results to North Dakota’s outdoor recreation opportunities,” said Cramer. “Visitors to Theodore Roosevelt National Park will be able to travel the South Loop road, which washed out several years ago, and recreationists can enjoy the updated trails and campsites in the nearby grasslands. Let’s keep this momentum going by passing the America the Beautiful Act, so we maintain our national treasures.”
Background:
Senator Daines introduced the “The Great American Outdoors Act,” in the 116th Congress which was signed into law by President Trump in 2020 and authorized the LRF for five years to address the maintenance backlog on public lands and national parks. The “America the Beautiful Act” reauthorizes and strengthens the LRF for 8 years (through 2033) and also does the following:
* Increases funding from $1.9 billion to $2 billion per year
* Prioritizes projects that have a 15 percent match from stakeholders
* Requires agencies to have a two-year running list of projects
* Allows the agencies to move forward with next year’s projects under a Continuing Resolution
* Ensures that all lands administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service are eligible
* Bolsters the ability for public donations to the fund by requiring agencies to run public awareness campaigns and make known the ability to donate
* Requires the agencies to assess and dispose of unneeded constructed assets
* Requires additional reporting to Congress on actions taken by the agency to reduce their Deferred Maintenance backlogs.
* Read the text of the bill HERE.
The National Park Foundation, National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), Montana Outfitters and Guides Association, Friends of Acadia, Boone and Crockett, and the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation are among many groups supporting the legislation.
Friday, November 29, 2024
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Fee increases approved for Black Canyon and Curecanti
The National Park Service (NPS) proposed this summer to charge fees for wilderness permits on the South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and increase group campsite fees for Curecanti National Recreation Area. Park managers sought public comment on the fee changes in July. Comments were reviewed and the fee increase was approved in November. The proposed fee changes will take effect in January 2025.
NPS fee staff completed a fee compatibility study for wilderness permits and group campsites. The study demonstrated that comparable wilderness permit costs vary widely but are typically uniformly higher than current Black Canyon permits. Additionally, significant price increases have occurred at most comparable group campgrounds in recent years. The proposed fees would bring both parks into closer alignment with comparable wilderness permits and group campgrounds.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park changes: A permit is required for wilderness use at the park. All day and overnight use of Black Canyon’s South Rim wilderness routes, (Warner, Gunnison, and Tomichi) will be available for reservation on www.recreation.gov beginning in April 2025 for trips between May and October. Daily hiking quotas exist for each route. Red Rock Canyon is already on the reservation system. The wilderness permit fee will be $6 plus an additional $4 per person per permit. To minimize resource impacts and maintain wilderness character, wilderness use permits will be issued for no more than three nights and for a maximum group size of up to four people.
Wilderness permits will be available online only through www.recreation.gov for trips between May and October (not in-person at the Black Canyon Visitor Center). Advanced planning is needed. All permit holders will still be responsible for paying the park entrance fee. Permits for hiking wilderness routes off of the South Rim and at Red Rock Canyon from November through April will be available first-come, first-serve at the visitor center when open or by self-registration outside of visitor center when it is closed (no fee); same daily quotas apply.
Curecanti National Recreation Area changes: The Curecanti group campsite at East Elk Creek, which accommodates between 9 and 50 individuals, will have a nightly fee of $120. The smaller group campsite at Red Creek, which accommodates between 9 and 20 people, will have a nightly fee of $60.
The 2004 Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA) authorizes the National Park Service to charge fees for recreation amenities at national parks. The law requires that recreational fees are appropriate to the benefits and services provided, and comparable to fees charged by others in the local area for similar benefits and services. Eighty percent (80%) of the fees collected at Black Canyon and Curecanti will remain at the parks to fund projects such as the rehabilitation of trails, upgrades to campgrounds, and improvements to water, sewer, and solid waste systems. The remaining twenty percent (20%) will be utilized agency wide.
NPS fee staff completed a fee compatibility study for wilderness permits and group campsites. The study demonstrated that comparable wilderness permit costs vary widely but are typically uniformly higher than current Black Canyon permits. Additionally, significant price increases have occurred at most comparable group campgrounds in recent years. The proposed fees would bring both parks into closer alignment with comparable wilderness permits and group campgrounds.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park changes: A permit is required for wilderness use at the park. All day and overnight use of Black Canyon’s South Rim wilderness routes, (Warner, Gunnison, and Tomichi) will be available for reservation on www.recreation.gov beginning in April 2025 for trips between May and October. Daily hiking quotas exist for each route. Red Rock Canyon is already on the reservation system. The wilderness permit fee will be $6 plus an additional $4 per person per permit. To minimize resource impacts and maintain wilderness character, wilderness use permits will be issued for no more than three nights and for a maximum group size of up to four people.
Wilderness permits will be available online only through www.recreation.gov for trips between May and October (not in-person at the Black Canyon Visitor Center). Advanced planning is needed. All permit holders will still be responsible for paying the park entrance fee. Permits for hiking wilderness routes off of the South Rim and at Red Rock Canyon from November through April will be available first-come, first-serve at the visitor center when open or by self-registration outside of visitor center when it is closed (no fee); same daily quotas apply.
Curecanti National Recreation Area changes: The Curecanti group campsite at East Elk Creek, which accommodates between 9 and 50 individuals, will have a nightly fee of $120. The smaller group campsite at Red Creek, which accommodates between 9 and 20 people, will have a nightly fee of $60.
The 2004 Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA) authorizes the National Park Service to charge fees for recreation amenities at national parks. The law requires that recreational fees are appropriate to the benefits and services provided, and comparable to fees charged by others in the local area for similar benefits and services. Eighty percent (80%) of the fees collected at Black Canyon and Curecanti will remain at the parks to fund projects such as the rehabilitation of trails, upgrades to campgrounds, and improvements to water, sewer, and solid waste systems. The remaining twenty percent (20%) will be utilized agency wide.
Monday, November 25, 2024
How to help the victims of Hurricane Helene during Christmas
Before jumping into the main point of my post, I'm writing this because it feels like the media has forgotten the victims of Hurricane Helene, especially those who live in North Carolina. The situation on the ground is far worse than you probably think. I don't know the numbers, but there are still many people living in tents, and winter is already moving into the mountains. If you're not aware of how bad things are, I would encourage you to do a little snooping on social media, and listen to the testimony of those who have been impacted.
Last week I ran into a Twitter post that provided a great idea for helping the victims of Hurricane Helene during the upcoming Christmas season. That is; by doing as much of your online Christmas shopping as possible by purchasing from small businesses in hurricane-ravaged areas. This post picks-up on that theme by focusing on businesses in areas that felt the greatest impact during the late-September storm, namely Western North Carolina. In particular, I focused on businesses that I thought hikers and outdoor enthusiasts would be most interested in. I also provided links to lists of currently open businesses so that you can find gifts from a broader universe of stores. Many of these businesses have sustained damage or have completely lost their physical store fronts, but were able to maintain their online stores. Businesses that managed to escape damage have also been greatly impacted, as tourism to the region has been shaprly curtailed. As a result, many of these business owners are in dire straight right now. All of them, I asure you, would greatly appreciate your business!
In addition to the links below, you should note that many lodging, attractions, wineries and restaurants are currently open. They desperately could use your business as well. Not just for the owners, but their employees as well. Moreover, any money spent at any business in the area helps to circulate much needed cash thoughout the community.
The Twitter posts that I saw are using these hashtags to get the word out, if you wish to help in that way: #ShopWNC / #ShopAsheville / #ShopHurricaneHelene
Each of the local businesses listed below I believe are open for online shopping:
Hiking, outdoor gear shops and local manufacturers
Mast General Store is a local institution originally out of Asheville: https://www.mastgeneralstore.com/
Regear Outdoors: https://regearnc.com/
Though the store was closed as of 10/18, Headwaters Outfitters stated in a newspaper article "In the meantime, you can shop the outdoor shop’s online store (send a note saying “Ship when the time is right”, Headwater recommends) or purchase a gift card for a future trip." https://shopheadwatersoutdoors.com/
Diamond Brand Gear: https://www.diamondbrandgear.com/
Eagles Nest Outfitters: https://eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/
Astral Designs: https://astraldesigns.com/
This is Jen Pharr Davis's business - a legendary hiker. She has an online store, but she's also currently offering guided hikes: https://blueridgehikingco.com/
This Marshall, NC bike shop was completely devastated, but they're still selling a few cycling related items: https://www.oyb-nc.com/merch
Goodies and Gifts
What hikers don't like a little something sweet after a long hike? Many offerings here, all would also make great gift items:
French Broad Chocolate: https://www.frenchbroadchocolates.com/
The Chocolate Fetish: https://www.chocolatefetish.com/
The Dillsboro Chocolate Factory: https://www.dillsborochocolate.com/
Cold Mountain Toffee: https://www.coldmountaintoffee.com/
Ashe County Cheese: https://www.ashecountycheese.com/
Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn: https://poppyhandcraftedpopcorn.com/
Breweries
And seriously, what hikers don't like beer?!? If you're in their distribution region, check out the beers from these WNC breweries next time you're in a grocery store, liquor store, bar or restaurant. You can also support them by purchasing merchandise and gift cards from their online stores. There are dozens of breweries in the impacted region, many completely wiped out, however, these were the few that I could confirm that have regional distribution of their beers. There are likely many more, especially for those who live in North Carolina:
Highland Brewing is one of the finest craft breweries around, IMHO. Normally, I'm not a fan of winter ales or spiced beers, but their Cold Mountain is outstanding if you're looking for something for the holiday spirit! https://highlandbrewing.com/hurricane-helene-response/
Catawba Brewing Company: https://www.catawbabrewing.com/
Hi-Wire Brewing: https://hiwirebrewing.com/
Appalachian Mountain Brewing: https://www.amb.beer/
Weekend Getaways
Southern Living published an article last week that lays out 13 towns in the hurricane's path that are currently welcoming guests. The article includes information on things to do in each area.
Yes!! There are still a lot of trails open in WNC. All of the trails on the TN side of the Great Smoky Mountains are open as well.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center is currently offering fully guided trips, rentals, zip lines, and aerials. Their Outfitter’s Store, Lodging, and the Rivers End Restaurant are open for business as well. https://noc.com/noc-operations-updates/
The world-famous Biltmore in Asheville has also reopened: https://www.biltmore.com/things-to-do/events/christmas/
Tuckaseegee Fly Shop: https://www.tuckflyshop.com/
There are many other businesses open in the area. You can check on the following websites in some of the hardest hit areas to see what's open. Any and all of them would greatly appreciate your business!
General info:
https://www.exploreasheville.com/article/heres-what-reopened-asheville-buncombe-county-post-hurricane-helene
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/charlottefive/c5-around-town/c5-development/article293591474.html
Marshall & Hot Springs:
https://madisoncounty-nc.com/business-directory/
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/hot-springs
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/marshall
Swannanoa, Maggie Valley and Waynesville:
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/maggie-valley
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/waynesville
https://visithaywood.com/blog/haywood-county-business-updates-closures-post-hurricane-helene/
Chimney Rock & Lake Lure:
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/lake-lure
Erwin, TN:
https://realwildunicoicounty.com/downtown/
https://unicoicounty.org/directory/
Other ways to help:
Samaritan's Purse - is still on the ground and doing wonderful work: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/pray-for-those-in-helenes-path/
Checkout the "Together We Rise T-Shirt" Proceeds go towards supporting Hurricane Helene relief: https://fuelgoods.com/products/together-we-rise-t-shirt-supporting-hurricane-helene-relief
DeFeet's Aireator 6" MTN Strong cycling socks. Proceeds also go towards supporting Hurricane Helene relief: https://defeet.com/products/aireator-6-mtn-strong
There are many other organizations on the ground that are doing great work. Before donating, however, I would highly encourage you to do a little homework first to make sure that as much of your donation is going towards the mission as possible, and not feeding a bloated bureaucracy. Unfortunately, there are many "charities" out there who are paying enourmous salaries to their boards of directors and management teams.
************************************************************************************
Check out our online trail guides:
Last week I ran into a Twitter post that provided a great idea for helping the victims of Hurricane Helene during the upcoming Christmas season. That is; by doing as much of your online Christmas shopping as possible by purchasing from small businesses in hurricane-ravaged areas. This post picks-up on that theme by focusing on businesses in areas that felt the greatest impact during the late-September storm, namely Western North Carolina. In particular, I focused on businesses that I thought hikers and outdoor enthusiasts would be most interested in. I also provided links to lists of currently open businesses so that you can find gifts from a broader universe of stores. Many of these businesses have sustained damage or have completely lost their physical store fronts, but were able to maintain their online stores. Businesses that managed to escape damage have also been greatly impacted, as tourism to the region has been shaprly curtailed. As a result, many of these business owners are in dire straight right now. All of them, I asure you, would greatly appreciate your business!
In addition to the links below, you should note that many lodging, attractions, wineries and restaurants are currently open. They desperately could use your business as well. Not just for the owners, but their employees as well. Moreover, any money spent at any business in the area helps to circulate much needed cash thoughout the community.
The Twitter posts that I saw are using these hashtags to get the word out, if you wish to help in that way: #ShopWNC / #ShopAsheville / #ShopHurricaneHelene
Each of the local businesses listed below I believe are open for online shopping:
Hiking, outdoor gear shops and local manufacturers
Mast General Store is a local institution originally out of Asheville: https://www.mastgeneralstore.com/
Regear Outdoors: https://regearnc.com/
Though the store was closed as of 10/18, Headwaters Outfitters stated in a newspaper article "In the meantime, you can shop the outdoor shop’s online store (send a note saying “Ship when the time is right”, Headwater recommends) or purchase a gift card for a future trip." https://shopheadwatersoutdoors.com/
Diamond Brand Gear: https://www.diamondbrandgear.com/
Eagles Nest Outfitters: https://eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/
Astral Designs: https://astraldesigns.com/
This is Jen Pharr Davis's business - a legendary hiker. She has an online store, but she's also currently offering guided hikes: https://blueridgehikingco.com/
This Marshall, NC bike shop was completely devastated, but they're still selling a few cycling related items: https://www.oyb-nc.com/merch
Goodies and Gifts
What hikers don't like a little something sweet after a long hike? Many offerings here, all would also make great gift items:
French Broad Chocolate: https://www.frenchbroadchocolates.com/
The Chocolate Fetish: https://www.chocolatefetish.com/
The Dillsboro Chocolate Factory: https://www.dillsborochocolate.com/
Cold Mountain Toffee: https://www.coldmountaintoffee.com/
Ashe County Cheese: https://www.ashecountycheese.com/
Poppy Handcrafted Popcorn: https://poppyhandcraftedpopcorn.com/
Breweries
And seriously, what hikers don't like beer?!? If you're in their distribution region, check out the beers from these WNC breweries next time you're in a grocery store, liquor store, bar or restaurant. You can also support them by purchasing merchandise and gift cards from their online stores. There are dozens of breweries in the impacted region, many completely wiped out, however, these were the few that I could confirm that have regional distribution of their beers. There are likely many more, especially for those who live in North Carolina:
Highland Brewing is one of the finest craft breweries around, IMHO. Normally, I'm not a fan of winter ales or spiced beers, but their Cold Mountain is outstanding if you're looking for something for the holiday spirit! https://highlandbrewing.com/hurricane-helene-response/
Catawba Brewing Company: https://www.catawbabrewing.com/
Hi-Wire Brewing: https://hiwirebrewing.com/
Appalachian Mountain Brewing: https://www.amb.beer/
Weekend Getaways
Southern Living published an article last week that lays out 13 towns in the hurricane's path that are currently welcoming guests. The article includes information on things to do in each area.
Yes!! There are still a lot of trails open in WNC. All of the trails on the TN side of the Great Smoky Mountains are open as well.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center is currently offering fully guided trips, rentals, zip lines, and aerials. Their Outfitter’s Store, Lodging, and the Rivers End Restaurant are open for business as well. https://noc.com/noc-operations-updates/
The world-famous Biltmore in Asheville has also reopened: https://www.biltmore.com/things-to-do/events/christmas/
Tuckaseegee Fly Shop: https://www.tuckflyshop.com/
There are many other businesses open in the area. You can check on the following websites in some of the hardest hit areas to see what's open. Any and all of them would greatly appreciate your business!
General info:
https://www.exploreasheville.com/article/heres-what-reopened-asheville-buncombe-county-post-hurricane-helene
https://www.charlotteobserver.com/charlottefive/c5-around-town/c5-development/article293591474.html
Marshall & Hot Springs:
https://madisoncounty-nc.com/business-directory/
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/hot-springs
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/marshall
Swannanoa, Maggie Valley and Waynesville:
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/maggie-valley
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/waynesville
https://visithaywood.com/blog/haywood-county-business-updates-closures-post-hurricane-helene/
Chimney Rock & Lake Lure:
https://www.shopwnc.com/business-listings/lake-lure
Erwin, TN:
https://realwildunicoicounty.com/downtown/
https://unicoicounty.org/directory/
Other ways to help:
Samaritan's Purse - is still on the ground and doing wonderful work: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/article/pray-for-those-in-helenes-path/
Checkout the "Together We Rise T-Shirt" Proceeds go towards supporting Hurricane Helene relief: https://fuelgoods.com/products/together-we-rise-t-shirt-supporting-hurricane-helene-relief
DeFeet's Aireator 6" MTN Strong cycling socks. Proceeds also go towards supporting Hurricane Helene relief: https://defeet.com/products/aireator-6-mtn-strong
There are many other organizations on the ground that are doing great work. Before donating, however, I would highly encourage you to do a little homework first to make sure that as much of your donation is going towards the mission as possible, and not feeding a bloated bureaucracy. Unfortunately, there are many "charities" out there who are paying enourmous salaries to their boards of directors and management teams.
************************************************************************************
Check out our online trail guides:
- Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com
- Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com
- Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
Sunday, November 24, 2024
CPW to use low-flying helicopters to assess deer, elk, bighorn sheep and moose in southeast Colorado
Beginning Dec. 2, Colorado Parks and Wildlife biologists will be conducting low-altitude helicopter flights to assess big game herds across the Southeast Region from Leadville to Trinidad and east of Interstate 25.
Flights to be conducted west of I-25 will involve both surveys of herds and some capture work. Those flights will occur in South Park, the Upper Arkansas River Valley, the Pikes Peak Region, the Sangre de Cristo mountains, the Wet Mountain Valley and Fishers Peak State Park in Trinidad.
On flights from Leadville to Cañon City, biologists will capture mule deer does and fawns to place radio-transmitting collars on them as part of a 26-year survival monitoring study.
Flights in the South Park area will include capturing elk as part of a study of elk survival and movement.
For the herd survey work, Southeast Region residents can expect to see helicopters that spend a short amount of time in a specific area and then move on as they search for herds. They will only hover long enough for wildlife biologists to count, determine sex of the animals and assess overall health. The flights provide important information to inform CPW wildlife biologists about individual herds.
“The helicopters will spend a brief amount of time in a specific area to count and categorize individual herds and then move on,” said Julie Stiver, senior wildlife biologist for CPW’s Southeast Region, based in Colorado Springs. “Each year, CPW biologists inventory tens of thousands of animals statewide to develop a picture of the productivity and composition of big game in Colorado. The data is critical to our work of forming population models, management strategies and to set future hunting license numbers.”
On the southeastern plains, helicopter surveys will be conducted in Kit Carson and Cheyenne counties followed by surveys in Kiowa, Prowers and Baca counties. CPW will be studying deer, elk, bighorn sheep and moose
CPW biologists also will fly along the Arkansas River and associated drainages from Pueblo to the Kansas state line. The biologists also will survey along the South Republican River drainage from Flagler to the Kansas state line.
Flights to be conducted west of I-25 will involve both surveys of herds and some capture work. Those flights will occur in South Park, the Upper Arkansas River Valley, the Pikes Peak Region, the Sangre de Cristo mountains, the Wet Mountain Valley and Fishers Peak State Park in Trinidad.
On flights from Leadville to Cañon City, biologists will capture mule deer does and fawns to place radio-transmitting collars on them as part of a 26-year survival monitoring study.
Flights in the South Park area will include capturing elk as part of a study of elk survival and movement.
For the herd survey work, Southeast Region residents can expect to see helicopters that spend a short amount of time in a specific area and then move on as they search for herds. They will only hover long enough for wildlife biologists to count, determine sex of the animals and assess overall health. The flights provide important information to inform CPW wildlife biologists about individual herds.
“The helicopters will spend a brief amount of time in a specific area to count and categorize individual herds and then move on,” said Julie Stiver, senior wildlife biologist for CPW’s Southeast Region, based in Colorado Springs. “Each year, CPW biologists inventory tens of thousands of animals statewide to develop a picture of the productivity and composition of big game in Colorado. The data is critical to our work of forming population models, management strategies and to set future hunting license numbers.”
On the southeastern plains, helicopter surveys will be conducted in Kit Carson and Cheyenne counties followed by surveys in Kiowa, Prowers and Baca counties. CPW will be studying deer, elk, bighorn sheep and moose
CPW biologists also will fly along the Arkansas River and associated drainages from Pueblo to the Kansas state line. The biologists also will survey along the South Republican River drainage from Flagler to the Kansas state line.
Thursday, November 21, 2024
Seven Great Reasons to Visit Glacier National Park
Fully realizing this may sound a little over-the-top, but every person living in this country should visit Glacier National Park at least once in their life. It will forever change them. John Muir once said of Glacier:
Unparalleled Beauty
In my humble opinion, Glacier National Park is by far the most beautiful park I’ve ever been to. This includes almost every major national park in the lower 48. As a disclaimer, I should note that I haven’t had a chance to explore the interior of Alaska….yet. Having said that, my love affair with this park began immediately the first time I laid eyes on it. To be precise, it was during the drive from Browning along Highway 2 as we approached the East Glacier/Two Medicine area. My love and awe for the park has grown after each subsequent visit. At every turn on any road or trail is one spectacular scene after another. In fact, there are no bad or boring hikes. Photographers could spend a lifetime here taking photos of scenes that normally show up in Backpacker Magazine or National Geographic. One of the most famous photo locations in the entire National Park System is at a spot known as Wild Goose Island Overlook. You may recognize the scene in theis photo:
Glaciers
Most people assume that Glacier received its name as a result of the 25 glaciers located within the park. However, the park was actually given its name due to the rugged mountains that were carved by massive glaciers during the most recent ice ages. Fortunately for hikers, a few of these can be reached by trail. Some of the most popular hikes for enjoying front row views of glaciers include Iceberg Lake and Grinnell Glacier.
The Highline Trail
The Highline Trail from Logan Pass is widely recognized as one of the best hikes in the park, if not the entire National Park System. At every step, and every turn, hikers will enjoy spectacular scenery as they traverse along the Continental Divide. The exceptionally beautiful views, the excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife, and the wildflowers all combine to make this a hike you'll remember the rest of your life. If you can make it past the narrow ledge section near the trailhead you’ll have the option of traveling to Haystack Pass, Granite Park Chalet, or making the one-way hike to “The Loop”. You'll also have the option of taking the steep spur trail up to Grinnell Glacier Overlook.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road
The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road is the only road to cross Glacier National Park from east to west. The epic route transports visitors through some of the most spectacular scenery the park has to offer. This engineering marvel spans more than 50 miles across the park's interior, takes passengers over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, and treats visitors to some of the grandest sights in the Rocky Mountains. Along its course the road passes glacial lakes and cedar forests in the lower valleys, as well as windswept alpine meadows and sweeping mountain vistas atop the 6646-foot pass.
Several scenic viewpoints and pullouts along the way provide motorists with ample opportunities to stop for extended views and photographs. Once at Logan Pass be sure to visit Hidden Lake Overlook, a relatively easy hike that takes hikers across the Continental Divide just above the Logan Pass Visitor Center.
Some drivers (and passengers) might be a little intimidated by the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Portions of it hug the mountainside as it traverses over steep drop-offs and steers through tight curves. If this gives you any pause, you may want to consider letting the drivers of the iconic Red "jammer" Buses take you across the mountains.
Wildlife
Outside of Yellowstone, Glacier National Park is arguably the best park for spotting and viewing wildlife. Although wildlife are frequently spotted along the road, a venture into the wilderness is likely to bring better results. Trails such as Iceberg Lake, Ptarmigan Tunnel, Grinnell Glacier and Swiftcurrent Pass are excellent choices if you wish to see a grizzly or black bear. Bullhead Lake, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, Dawson Pass and Cobalt Lake are all great choices for spotting moose. For bighorn sheep, check out Grinnell Glacier, Dawson Pass or the Highline Trail. For the best opportunities to possibly spot a mountain goat, check out Hidden Lake Overlook, the Highline Trail or Piegan Pass.
History, Culture and Ambiance
The Glacier experience is unlike any other national park. This is due in large part to its living history. Park visitors can still enjoy the magnificent grand lodges, backcountry chalets and trails that were built by the Great Northern Railway shortly after the turn of the 20th century. You can also relax and take in the sights in one of the historic boats that still ply the waters of Glacier's lakes. Another tradition from Glacier's bygone era are its famous Red Busses, which have been used as transportation since 1914. Visitors can take a step back in time by touring the park in one of these vehicles, each of which were built between 1936 and 1939. For unparalleled ambiance, there's absolutely nothing better than sipping a huckleberry beer on the back porch of the Many Glacier Hotel and soaking-in the profound beauty of Swiftcurrent Lake and the mountains that surround it. In many respects, and with maybe a little imaginaton, visitors can still enjoy a similar experience park visitors had in the past.
Backcountry Chalets
2024 marked the 110th anniversary of the Sperry and Granite Park Chalets. Both backcountry chalets were built in 1914 during a period when the Great Northern Railway was promoting Glacier National Park under the "See America First" campaign. Today the two backcountry chalets offer hikers the opportunity to trek to an overnight backcountry destination without being bogged down with a bunch of camping gear.
Perched at an elevation of more than 6500 feet, the Sperry Chalet sits high atop a rock ledge that offers visitors commanding views of majestic mountain peaks, waterfalls, as well as Lake McDonald in the valley far below. The Granite Park Chalet rests just below Swiftcurrent Pass, along the edge of a sub-alpine meadow that offers commanding views of Heavens Peak and the McDonald Valley. Day hikers and overnight guests commonly reach this chalet by one of three trails: the Highline Trail, the Granite Park Trail or the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail out of Many Glacier. Day hikers may want to note that Sperry Chalet also sells hot lunches.
With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout the park, hiking is the absolute best way to see Glacier National Park. In addition to the hikes listed above, the park offers a variety of other outstanding hikes. If you do plan to visit Glacier this year, please note that our hiking website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings as well as other things to do to help with all your vacation planning.
*******************************************************************************
Glacier National Park preserves more than a million acres of some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout this vast park, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?
Exploring Glacier National Park takes all the guesswork out by focusing on the most amazing hikes, and provides you with handpicked recommendations that will allow you to make the most of your trip to Glacier:
"Give a month at least to this precious reserve. The time will not be taken from the sum of your life. Instead of shortening, it will indefinitely lengthen it and make you truly immortal. Nevermore will time seem short or long, and cares will never again fall heavily on you, but gently and kindly as gifts from heaven."I know I can’t, but I'm pretty sure there aren’t too many people that can sum-up the Glacier experience better than Muir. Here are just a few of the reasons why I think Glacier is so special:
Unparalleled Beauty
In my humble opinion, Glacier National Park is by far the most beautiful park I’ve ever been to. This includes almost every major national park in the lower 48. As a disclaimer, I should note that I haven’t had a chance to explore the interior of Alaska….yet. Having said that, my love affair with this park began immediately the first time I laid eyes on it. To be precise, it was during the drive from Browning along Highway 2 as we approached the East Glacier/Two Medicine area. My love and awe for the park has grown after each subsequent visit. At every turn on any road or trail is one spectacular scene after another. In fact, there are no bad or boring hikes. Photographers could spend a lifetime here taking photos of scenes that normally show up in Backpacker Magazine or National Geographic. One of the most famous photo locations in the entire National Park System is at a spot known as Wild Goose Island Overlook. You may recognize the scene in theis photo:
Glaciers
Most people assume that Glacier received its name as a result of the 25 glaciers located within the park. However, the park was actually given its name due to the rugged mountains that were carved by massive glaciers during the most recent ice ages. Fortunately for hikers, a few of these can be reached by trail. Some of the most popular hikes for enjoying front row views of glaciers include Iceberg Lake and Grinnell Glacier.
The Highline Trail
The Highline Trail from Logan Pass is widely recognized as one of the best hikes in the park, if not the entire National Park System. At every step, and every turn, hikers will enjoy spectacular scenery as they traverse along the Continental Divide. The exceptionally beautiful views, the excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife, and the wildflowers all combine to make this a hike you'll remember the rest of your life. If you can make it past the narrow ledge section near the trailhead you’ll have the option of traveling to Haystack Pass, Granite Park Chalet, or making the one-way hike to “The Loop”. You'll also have the option of taking the steep spur trail up to Grinnell Glacier Overlook.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road
The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road is the only road to cross Glacier National Park from east to west. The epic route transports visitors through some of the most spectacular scenery the park has to offer. This engineering marvel spans more than 50 miles across the park's interior, takes passengers over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, and treats visitors to some of the grandest sights in the Rocky Mountains. Along its course the road passes glacial lakes and cedar forests in the lower valleys, as well as windswept alpine meadows and sweeping mountain vistas atop the 6646-foot pass.
Several scenic viewpoints and pullouts along the way provide motorists with ample opportunities to stop for extended views and photographs. Once at Logan Pass be sure to visit Hidden Lake Overlook, a relatively easy hike that takes hikers across the Continental Divide just above the Logan Pass Visitor Center.
Some drivers (and passengers) might be a little intimidated by the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Portions of it hug the mountainside as it traverses over steep drop-offs and steers through tight curves. If this gives you any pause, you may want to consider letting the drivers of the iconic Red "jammer" Buses take you across the mountains.
Wildlife
Outside of Yellowstone, Glacier National Park is arguably the best park for spotting and viewing wildlife. Although wildlife are frequently spotted along the road, a venture into the wilderness is likely to bring better results. Trails such as Iceberg Lake, Ptarmigan Tunnel, Grinnell Glacier and Swiftcurrent Pass are excellent choices if you wish to see a grizzly or black bear. Bullhead Lake, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, Dawson Pass and Cobalt Lake are all great choices for spotting moose. For bighorn sheep, check out Grinnell Glacier, Dawson Pass or the Highline Trail. For the best opportunities to possibly spot a mountain goat, check out Hidden Lake Overlook, the Highline Trail or Piegan Pass.
History, Culture and Ambiance
The Glacier experience is unlike any other national park. This is due in large part to its living history. Park visitors can still enjoy the magnificent grand lodges, backcountry chalets and trails that were built by the Great Northern Railway shortly after the turn of the 20th century. You can also relax and take in the sights in one of the historic boats that still ply the waters of Glacier's lakes. Another tradition from Glacier's bygone era are its famous Red Busses, which have been used as transportation since 1914. Visitors can take a step back in time by touring the park in one of these vehicles, each of which were built between 1936 and 1939. For unparalleled ambiance, there's absolutely nothing better than sipping a huckleberry beer on the back porch of the Many Glacier Hotel and soaking-in the profound beauty of Swiftcurrent Lake and the mountains that surround it. In many respects, and with maybe a little imaginaton, visitors can still enjoy a similar experience park visitors had in the past.
Backcountry Chalets
2024 marked the 110th anniversary of the Sperry and Granite Park Chalets. Both backcountry chalets were built in 1914 during a period when the Great Northern Railway was promoting Glacier National Park under the "See America First" campaign. Today the two backcountry chalets offer hikers the opportunity to trek to an overnight backcountry destination without being bogged down with a bunch of camping gear.
Perched at an elevation of more than 6500 feet, the Sperry Chalet sits high atop a rock ledge that offers visitors commanding views of majestic mountain peaks, waterfalls, as well as Lake McDonald in the valley far below. The Granite Park Chalet rests just below Swiftcurrent Pass, along the edge of a sub-alpine meadow that offers commanding views of Heavens Peak and the McDonald Valley. Day hikers and overnight guests commonly reach this chalet by one of three trails: the Highline Trail, the Granite Park Trail or the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail out of Many Glacier. Day hikers may want to note that Sperry Chalet also sells hot lunches.
With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout the park, hiking is the absolute best way to see Glacier National Park. In addition to the hikes listed above, the park offers a variety of other outstanding hikes. If you do plan to visit Glacier this year, please note that our hiking website also offers a wide variety of accommodation listings as well as other things to do to help with all your vacation planning.
*******************************************************************************
Glacier National Park preserves more than a million acres of some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. With more than 740 miles of trails meandering throughout this vast park, how will you find and choose the most scenic and rewarding hikes?
Exploring Glacier National Park takes all the guesswork out by focusing on the most amazing hikes, and provides you with handpicked recommendations that will allow you to make the most of your trip to Glacier:
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)