Distance
5 Miles
Elevation Gain
500 Feet
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost Per Person
$175
Program Overview
Multiple: Join us to explore the diverse birdlife of Glacier National Park. From identifying common species to understanding their behaviors, ecological roles, and migration patterns, this course offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of birds in Glacier. Each session combines classroom lessons with field excursions, giving participants hands-on experience with birdwatching and helping them develop identification skills. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, this course will deepen your appreciation for the birds of Glacier and the vital roles they play in the park’s ecosystems.
Birds of Glacier (East, West, and Alpine)
Hike Overview Continued
June 27 at 7 a.m: East Glacier
June 28 at 7 a.m: West Glacier
July 10 at 7 a.m: Alpine Glacier
Instructor: Denny Olson
Join us to explore the diverse birdlife of the east side of Glacier National Park. From identifying common species to understanding their behaviors, ecological roles, and migration patterns, this course offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of birds in Glacier. Each session combines classroom lessons with field excursions, giving participants hands-on experience with birdwatching and helping them develop identification skills. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, this course will deepen your appreciation for the birds of Glacier and the vital roles they play in the park’s ecosystems.
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 birding basics and safety. We will travel to a few spots within Glacier National Park and be able to view various bird species, depending on the course focus area. The courses 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. Binoculars are provided, but please feel free to bring your own if you’d like.
Physical Requirements: Moderate: around 5 miles roundtrip, with 500 feet in elevation change.
Recommended Readings:
- “Birds of Glacier National Park” by Jack M. H. Berryman
- “The Sibley Guide to Birds” by David Allen Sibley
- “The Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America” by Roger Tory Peterson
What to Expect On Your Birds of Glacier Course
We will meet at the Glacier Institute Field Camp at 7 a.m. and begin inside our classroom for lessons on birding basics and safety. We will travel to a few spots within Glacier National Park and be able to view various bird species, depending on the course focus area. The courses will end by 4 p.m. and will not be canceled due to weather.
* Any trails listed on this program or others are subject to change due to trail closure, weather, trail conditions, or wildlife.
Program Details
Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Field Camp.
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.
Physical Requirements: Moderate: around 5 miles roundtrip, with 500 feet in elevation change.
What to Bring
Most importantly are comfortable hiking shoes, at least 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen. Binoculars are provided, but please feel free to bring your own if you’d like.
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes
- 1-2 liter Water Bottle
- Backpack
- Sleeping bag
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Camera (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
- Field Notebook with pencils