Distance
3 Miles
Elevation Gain
100 Feet
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost Per Person
$20
Progam Overview
Every Wednesday & Saturday: Did you know Glacier National Park can be enjoyed all year long? We invite 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 is home to beautiful green forests and active animals that have adapted to this intense season. Introductions will begin in West Glacier where we will slip on our snowshoes and travel to the trailhead together. Strolling down the South Boundary trail, we will look for tracks and listen to the stories of the indigenous people who live here. We will 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 travel back to the main parking lot. After this program, you will have a new found love for the winter world and all it has to offer.
Winter Snowshoe in Glacier
Hike Overview Continued
Did you know Glacier National Park can be enjoyed all year long? We invite 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 is home to beautiful green forests and active animals that have adapted to this intense season. Introductions will begin in West Glacier where we will slip on our snowshoes and travel to the trailhead together. Strolling down the South Boundary trail, we will look for tracks and listen to the stories of the indigenous people who live here. We will 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 travel back to the main parking lot. After this program, you will have a new found love for the winter world and all it has to offer.
Meeting Location: West Glacier parking lot near the post office.
Itinerary: (subject to change due to trail closures and weather) Introductions will happen in the parking lot in West Glacier. We will then gather our layers, bags, and snowshoes and board the Glacier Institute bus to travel to the South Boundary trailhead. After a brief safety discussion, we will follow along the South Boundary trail to gain an introduction in winter ecology in Glacier. After two hours, we will end our trek back at the trailhead and travel back to our vehicles where the program will conclude.
Equipment: You will receive a gear list once you register. Most importantly are comfortable hiking shoes, water (at least 1-2 liters), backpack, rain gear, hat, and gloves. Snowshoes will be available if needed. Bring along any field guide books of your interest and extra layers.
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
We will stroll down the South Boundary trail looking for tracks and listen to the stories of the indigenous people who live here. We will discuss the science behind the snow and what unique behaviors and characteristics animals have to survive the harsh conditions
Program Details
- This program meets at West Glacier parking lot near the Huckleberry Hut.
- The program will begin 9 a.m. and ends at 11 a.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