East Going-to-the-Sun Road Educational Hike

East Going-to-the-Sun Road Educational Hike

Hike Overview Continued

Educational Interpretation Tour

Multiple, July – September:

The beautiful 2+ mile Beaver Pond Loop trail is located just along the edge of St. Mary Lake on the east side of Glacier National Park, very close to the east entrance to the GTSR. This region is a perfect canvas to learn about how fire and water have played a huge role in shaping Glacier’s story, and boasts excellent habitats to look for grizzly bears, moose, and beavers.

Starting the adventure with a drive over Logan Pass on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, this option is perfect for those that want to drive the entirety of the GTSR (~5 hours) and do a short educational hike without too many other people on the trail. The Beaver Pond Loop is one of Glacier’s hidden gems.

Program Overview:

“Every habitat tells a story of change – from the forests that grow after fire to the ponds built by beavers, this landscape is always evolving.”

Primary Educational Theme: Habitats in Change: How Fire, Water, and Time Shape the Living Landscape. Every habitat tells a story of change, from the forests that grow after fire to the ponds built by beavers, this landscape is always evolving.

Location: Beaver Pond Loop, East Glacier, Glacier National Park

Distance: ~2 miles total (educators will determine turnaround based on pace and group interest)

Difficulty: mild easy to moderate (steady climb uphill, roots, spots of exposure)

Turnaround point: Beaver Pond 

Drive Time: 5 hours

Duration on Trail: Approximately 2-3 hours (partial loop)

Popularity: low traffic

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

Theme: Habitats in Change: How Fire, Water, and Time Shape the 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.