Hey Bear: Myth-Busting Hibernation

Instructor: Camden Dahms

This phrase has been deeply-ingrained in the minds of most hikers, but is it the best thing to say to avoid an encounter? We’ve all heard about the infamous August 1967 night in Glacier, but what caused it? This course, Hey Bear: Myth-Busting Hibernation, will give you a new insight into bear biology, bear behavior, as well as bear safety. The Crown of the Continent Ecosystem has the highest concentration of bears in the lower 48. Come learn the facts and gain a deeper appreciation for our humanlike denizens of Glacier National Park!

Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Field Camp. 

Itinerary: (subject to change due to trail closures and weather) We will meet at the Glacier Institute Field Camp at 7 a.m. and begin inside our classroom for lessons on bear ecology and safety. We will hike 2.7 miles towards Hidden Lake. This classic trail gives hikers an amazing immersion into prime bear habitat where we will further discuss bear behavior, safety, and ecology. We will have lunch on the trail before returning to Logan Pass. The course will end by 4 p.m. and will not be canceled due to weather.

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: You will receive a Field Camp gear list once you register. Most importantly are comfortable hiking shoes, at least 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen. Weather can be varied, especially at the high elevations of Logan Pass, so please be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially warm layers. Bring binoculars and/or a spotting scope, if you have them. A camera is optional. Summer weather at Logan Pass can range from snowy and windy to hot and sunny, so come prepared for a variety of weather conditions!

Physical Requirements: Moderately strenuous: around 9 miles roundtrip from Siyeh Bend toward the
pass and back, with 2,200 feet in elevation changes.

Recommended Readings:

● The Sacred Paw: The bear in nature, myth, and literature, by Paul Shepard and Barry Sanders
● Mammal Tracks & Sign, by Mark Elbroch
● The Predator Paradox, by John A. Shivik
● The Bear Almanac, by Gary Brown