
Distance
3 Miles

Elevation Gain
550 Feet

Difficulty
Easy/Moderate

Cost Per Person
$125
August
Progam Overview
June 10 & July 8, 2023: This phrase has been deeply ingrained in the minds of most hikers, but is it the best thing to say? We’ve all heard about the infamous August 1967 night in Glacier, but what caused it? This course, Hey Bear: Breaking Common Myths About Bears, 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!
Hey Bear – Guided Educational Hike
Hike Overview Continued
Educational Guided Tour
The phrase “Hey Bear” has been deeply ingrained in the minds of most hikers, but is it the best thing to say? We have all heard about the infamous bear attack on an August 1967 night in Glacier National Park, but what caused it? This Glacier Institute course, “Hey Bear”: Breaking Common Myths About Bears, 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. Afterwards, we will depart for Logan Pass, where 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 cancelled 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 Glacier Institute Field Camp gear list once you register. Most importantly, bring 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: Easy/Moderate. The hike in Glacier National Park will cover 3 roundtrip from Logan Pass to Hidden Lake Overlook, with 550 foot elevation gain.

What to Expect On Your Hey Bear | Guided Day Hike
We will be hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook trail, this classic trail gives hikers an amazing immersion into prime bear habitat where we will further discuss bear behavior, safety, and ecology. The hiking distance will be 3 miles with 550 feet in elevation changes.
Program Details
- This program meets at Glacier Institute Field Camp, West Glacier
- The program will begin 7 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Please arrive 15 minutes early.
- Hiking distance covers 3 miles with 550 feet elevation change.
- On-site parking available.
- There is a maximum number of 13 hikers 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.
- Lightweight hiking boots or a sturdy pair of hiking shoes
- 2 liter sized water bottle or Camelback
- Day Pack with plastic bag liner or cover
- Waterproof rain jacket and pants
- Sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant & lip balm
- Camera (optional)
- Trekking poles, if you like to use them for hiking (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
- Field Notebook notes and sketches