Distance
3 Miles
Elevation Gain
100 Feet
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost Per Person
$75
Hike Overview
Every Saturday & Sunday, Jan 1 through March 1, 1pm-4pm: Did you know that Glacier National Park can be enjoyed all year long? We invite adventurers of all ages to bundle up and join Glacier Institute staff for a snowshoeing hike in this glittering winter wonderland. Even in winter, Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest are home to beautiful green forests and active animals that have adapted to this intense season.
Introductions will begin in the Lake McDonald Lodge parking area where we will slip on our snowshoes and travel to the trailhead together. Strolling along the trail, we will look for tracks and discuss the science behind the snow and what unique behaviors and characteristics animals have to survive the harsh conditions.
Glacier National Park Winter Snowshoe
Hike Overview Continued
Every Saturday & Sunday, Jan 1 through March 1: Did you know that Glacier National Park can be enjoyed all year long? We invite adventurers of all ages to bundle up and join Glacier Institute staff for a snowshoeing hike in this glittering winter wonderland. Even in winter, Glacier National Park and the Flathead National Forest are home to beautiful green forests and active animals that have adapted to this intense season.
Introductions will begin in the Lake McDonald Lodge parking area where we will slip on our snowshoes and travel to the trailhead together. Strolling along the trail, we will look for tracks and discuss the science behind the snow and what unique behaviors and characteristics animals have to survive the harsh conditions. Once we return to the trailhead, we’ll enjoy some hot chocolate as we debrief in the parking lot.
Meeting Location: Lake McDonald Lodge parking area, near the Sperry Trailhead, in Glacier National Park
Please contact the office for details, 406-755-1211 or register@glacierinstitute.org
Equipment: You will receive a full gear list once you register. Most importantly, please bring comfortable insulated hiking boots, water (at least 1-2 liters), backpack, snow gear, hat, and gloves. Bring along any field guide books of your interest and extra layers. We will provide snowshoes and trekking poles.
Physical Requirements: Moderate difficulty, due to snowshoeing. These hikes are geared towards those who like to take leisurely strolls, at a very easy-going pace. Distances covered will be a maximum of three miles.
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 1 p.m. and ends at 4 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