Upper McDonald Creek Educational Day Hike

Upper McDonald Creek Educational Day Hike

Hike Overview Continued

Educational Interpretation Tour

Multiple, July – September: This trail follows Upper McDonald Creek through a shaded hemlock forest with gentle elevation gain. Walking alongside the creek, the lifeblood of Glacier National Park, offers a close look at the waterways that sustain the surrounding ecosystem. Along the route, you’ll encounter plant species adapted to cool, wet conditions and observe areas where waterfowl gather and thrive.

Program Overview:

Primary Educational Theme: Following the Flow – How Water Shapes, Connects, and Sustains Glacier’s Living Landscape. Every drop of water in Glacier has a story: carving valleys, nourishing forests, and connecting mountains to oceans. Where it flows, life follows.

Drive Time: 1-1.5 hours (3 hours total)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (mild elevation, roots, and some rocks)

Duration on Trail: ~5 hours (out-and-back with educational stops)

Trail Distance: 3.5–4 miles

Trail Elevation Gain: ~200 ft

Trail Popularity: Medium to Low Traffic

Target Audience: General visitors, families, school groups (ages 10+)

Theme:Following the Flow – How Water Shapes, Connects, and Sustains Glacier’s Living Landscape

Meeting Place: Glacier Institute, 7450 HWY 2 East, Columbia Falls, MT 59912

Food: Please bring a trail lunch, plenty of water, and snacks for the day.

Park Entrance Fees: Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the course. These can be purchased online at: https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74280

Equipment: Most importantly, bring comfortable hiking shoes, at least a 1-2 liter water bottle, a backpack, rain gear, a hat, and sunscreen. The weather can be varied, especially at the varying elevations of Logan Pass, so please be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially warm layers for potential snow and high winds. Binoculars are very useful, but optional, as well as field guides that interest you.