Distance
~2 Miles
Elevation Gain
100 Feet
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost Per Person
$75
Hike Overview
Wednesdays & Saturdays, Jan 6 through March 6, 9:30am – 12:00 pm:
Every winter, snow settles over Glacier National Park and the landscape goes still. Strap on snowshoes and join a Glacier Institute outdoor educator for a guided hike through the park at its quietest. Along the trail, we’ll read animal tracks, explore the science of snow, and learn how wildlife survives the deep cold, all while seeing familiar views transformed by the season. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate back at the trailhead.
Snowshoe hikes range from 1-2 miles of walking with little to no elevation gain. Hikers should wear good warm waterproof boots, and be prepared to be out in all weather.
Glacier National Park Winter Snowshoe
Hike Overview Continued
Wednesdays & Saturdays, Jan 6 through March 6, 9:30am – 12:00 pm:
Every winter, snow settles over Glacier National Park and the landscape goes still. Strap on snowshoes and join a Glacier Institute outdoor educator for a guided hike through the park at its quietest. Along the trail, we’ll read animal tracks, explore the science of snow, and learn how wildlife survives the deep cold, all while seeing familiar views transformed by the season. Afterward, warm up with hot chocolate back at the trailhead.
Snowshoe hikes range from 1-2 miles of walking with little to no elevation gain. Hikers should wear good warm waterproof boots, and be prepared to be out in all weather.
What’s included
- Guided interpretation by a Glacier Institute outdoor educator.
- Hot chocolate at the trailhead.
- Snowshoes available if needed.
What’s not included
- Park entry pass (participants must purchase prior to the hike).
- Gratuity for guides is not included.
Highlights
- Explore Glacier National Park’s quiet, snow-covered landscape in winter.
- Learn to read animal tracks and understand snow and wildlife survival.
- Small-group, educator-led experience with seasonal interpretation.
What to Expect On Your Winter Snowshoe in Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest are home to beautiful green forests and active animals that have adapted to this intense season. We will discuss the science behind the snow and what unique behaviors and characteristics animals have to survive the harsh conditions. After this program, you will have a new found love for the winter world and all it has to offer.
* Trails listed are subject to change due to trail closure, weather, trail conditions, or wildlife.
Hike Details
- This program meets at Lake McDonald Lodge parking area, near the Sperry Trailhead
- Please contact the office for details, 406-755-1211 or register@glacierinstitute.org.
- The program will begin 9:30 a.m. and ends at 12:00 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes early.
- Hiking distance covers less than 3 miles with less than 100 feet elevation change.
- Glacier National Park Vehicle Pass is required, you can purchase a pass at recreation.gov
- On-site parking is available.
- There is a maximum number of 13 participants per trip.
- This program has a minimum guest count of 3 people. In the unlikely case we don’t reach that number, you will be notified prior to the event.
What to Bring
Please remember that weather in NW Montana during all seasons can change quickly from warm and sunny to freezing at any time of the year. We recommend checking the weather prior to your trip. Please also check your course information sheet for specific gear requirements in addition to those listed below.
- 2 liter sized water bottle or Camelback
- Trail lunch
- Day Pack with plastic bag liner or cover
- Heavy fleece or wool pants (or waterproof snow pants)
- Insulated winter boots and extra wool or synthetic socks
- Camera (optional)
- Trekking poles, if you like to use them for hiking (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
- Field Notebook notes and sketches