Rangers Respond to Multiple Unrelated Medical Incidents in Glacier

Glacier National Park personnel responded to a series of unrelated medical incidents over the last two days, including two visitor deaths from cardiac arrest in two separate incidents.

On Monday afternoon, July 28, a 61-year-old male from Illinois was visiting Logan Pass when he experienced chest pain and shortness of breath at the Hidden Lake Overlook. The visitor was transported by ALERT to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

A 67-year-old male from Indiana was hiking in the St. Mary Falls area with his wife on a ranger-led program Monday afternoon when he went into cardiac arrest. CPR was initiated by a park ranger and other hikers. ALERT and the Babb Ambulance responded. The hiker was declared dead at the scene. Glacier County Sheriff’s/Coroner’s Office responded to the incident.

Late Monday afternoon, a 79-year-old female visitor lost consciousness while hiking the Loop Trail approximately one mile from the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Park rangers arrived on scene and provided medical assistance. ALERT and Three Rivers Ambulance responded to the area, but the woman was able to hike out on her own. As park rangers were leaving the trail, they also assisted a young boy displaying signs of overheating.

At approximately 5:15 p.m. Monday, a 51-year-old male, also on the Loop Trail, was experiencing difficulty due to a kidney stone. He was hiking on the trail about two miles from the trailhead. Park rangers, fire crew members and other park personnel responded and transported him to a landing zone where ALERT was waiting to transport him to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

At approximately 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 29th, a male hiker from California, age 75, needed medical assistance while on the Iceberg/Ptarmigan Trail near Many Glacier. CPR was initiated by his family, and park rangers responded with an automated external defibrillator (AED) and continued rescue efforts. ALERT responded to the area. The hiker was declared dead at the scene. Glacier County Sheriff’s/Coroner’s Office responded to the incident.

Visitors are reminded to think of their personal safety and well-being when hiking. Drink and eat often to avoid dehydration. By the time you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Drink a half to one quart of water or sports drink every hour that you are hiking in the heat. Eat a salty snack every time you drink. Food is your body’s primary source of fuel and salts (electrolytes) while hiking in the heat. Avoid hiking in the hottest part of the day, or choose shaded hikes during mid-day. Give yourself plenty of time to hike at a comfortable pace, and be aware of your hiking skills. Hikes in high mountain terrain often take longer than planned.

Hot temperatures and dry weather this summer may create additional hazards for hikers in Glacier National Park. Monitor yourself and your group for signs of heat illness. Signs of heat illness can include weakness, nausea, headache, cramps, diarrhea, dizziness, and changes in mental status. If caught early, most heat illness can be treated with rest, food, water, and shade. If symptoms fail to improve or worsen, get help immediately.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Hiker-Bear Incident Investigation Continues

Glacier National Park officials announced yesterday that an investigation regarding a hiker-bear incident that happened on Saturday, July 26th, is ongoing. The Mt. Brown Lookout Trail remains closed at this time. Park personnel are monitoring the area for a bear that is believed to be injured as a result of the incident. Park visitors are encouraged to report any sighting of an injured bear to a nearby park ranger or visitor center. Routinely, park visitors are encouraged to notify a park ranger of any bear sightings within the park.

At approximately 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 26, park dispatch received notification from a park volunteer backcountry ranger of a hiker-bear incident on the Mt. Brown Lookout Trail, on the west side of the park. An initial investigation indicates that a 57-year old hiker from Texas was hiking alone on the Mt. Brown Lookout Trail when a bear charged him from an area below the trail. The hiker deployed his canister of bear spray and then discharged one round of his handgun. It is believed the bear was wounded, and ran away. The hiker then turned around and quickly hiked back to the trailhead, warning other hikers on the trail of the incident. The hiker met a park volunteer backcountry ranger on the trail, and the ranger notified park dispatch of the situation. The hiker received no physical injuries.

Park rangers immediately closed the trail and initiated an investigation. They staffed the trailhead to communicate the situation to other park visitors and began a search for the bear. Park rangers and bear specialists hiked-in, while others were transported via helicopter to the summit of Mt. Brown to investigate and search for the bear. At this time it's unknown if the bear was a grizzly or black bear, but evidence indicates the bear was wounded.

Glacier National Park is home to both grizzly and black bears. Hikers are encouraged to hike in groups, stay on designated trails, carry bear spray that is easily accessible, and make noise at regular intervals along the trail. Bears spend a lot of time eating, so hikers should be extra alert while in or near feeding areas such as berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. Hiking early in the morning, late in the day, or after dark is not encouraged. Trail running is not recommended as it has led to surprise bear encounters.

Visitors are allowed to carry a firearm in Glacier National Park. Federal law, as of 2010, allows the carrying of firearms within national parks and wildlife refuges consistent with state law. Although visitors are allowed to carry firearms, it's illegal to discharge a firearm in the park.

Park visitors are encouraged to carry bear spray, and know how to properly use it as a deterrent for a charging grizzly bear. No single deterrent is 100% effective, but compared to all others, including firearms, proper use of bear spray has proven to be the best method for fending off threatening and attacking bears, and for preventing injury to the person and animal involved. For more information about recreating in the park, please click here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Hiker Uses Bear Spray and Gun on Bear

A hiker deployed bear spray and then discharged a hand gun on a bear Saturday morning in Glacier National Park, while another incident required an emergency rescue of an injured hiker.

At approximately 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 26th, park dispatch received notification from a park volunteer backcountry ranger of a hiker-bear incident on the Mt. Brown Lookout Trail, on the west side of the park. Initial investigation indicates that a 57-year old hiker from Texas was hiking alone on the Mt. Brown Lookout Trail when a bear charged him from an area below the trail. The hiker deployed his canister of bear spray and then discharged one round of his handgun. It is believed the bear was wounded, and ran away. The hiker then turned around and quickly hiked back to the trailhead, warning other hikers on the trail of the incident. The hiker met a park volunteer backcountry ranger on the trail, and the ranger notified park dispatch of the situation. The hiker received no physical injuries.

Park rangers immediately closed the trail and initiated an investigation. They staffed the trailhead to communicate the situation to other park visitors and began a search for the bear. Park rangers and bear specialists hiked from the trailhead, and were transported via helicopter to the summit of Mt. Brown, to investigate and search for the bear. It is unknown if the bear was a grizzly or black bear, but evidence indicates the bear was wounded. The investigation and search for the bear will continue, and the trail will remain closed until further notice.

At approximately 2:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 26th, park dispatch received notification that a hiker in the Lunch Creek Drainage, off of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, needed emergency assistance. The 54-year old woman hiker from Kalispell fell, tumbled a short distance, dislocated her knee and was unable to hike out. Her hiking companion hiked to the Going-to-the-Sun Road to get help. Two rangers hiked in to search for the hiker, and found her in a steep and rugged area, off trail. The hikers were hiking off trail when the incident occurred. Three rangers were flown to the area via helicopter to provide medical assistance and help evacuate the hiker. Due to the terrain and the injury, rangers determined she would need to be hoisted out of the area. Members of the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office aboard the Two Bear Air Helicopter responded to the scene and hoisted the hiker to the helicopter, and then transported her to the West Glacier area where the Three Rivers Ambulance was waiting. The ambulance transported the injured hiker to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Hikers in Glacier National Park are encouraged to hike in groups, stay on designated trails, carry bear spray that is easily accessible, and make noise at regular intervals along the trail. The park is home to grizzly and black bears. Bears spend a lot of time eating, so hikers should be extra alert while in or near feeding areas such as berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. Hiking early in the morning, late in the day, or after dark is not encouraged. Trail running is not recommended as it has led to surprise bear encounters. For more information about recreating in the park, click here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Outdoor Recreation Participation Report: Camping and Backpacking Continues to Decline

The Outdoor Foundation is reporting that a record number of Americans participated in at least one outdoor activity in 2013, with nearly 50% of all Americans ages six and older taking part in at least one of the 43 outdoor activities, according to the latest Outdoor Recreation Participation Report. That percentage equates to 142.6 million American outdoor participants. Although the number of participants rose, the percentage of participants fell slightly from 49.4% in 2012 to 49.2% in 2013, due to population increase.

Compared to 2012, participation in outdoor activities increased or remained flat among youth and young adults - signaling a positive trend in America's inactivity crisis. The participation rate among children ages six to 12 rose one percentage point to 64%. Participation among young adults ages 18 to 24 also rose one point to 58%, while hard-to-reach adolescents, ages 13 to 17, remained flat at 60%.

Below are a few stats of interest:

* Participation in day hiking remained relatively flat again for the second year in a row. However, the latest figures don't reflect the strong growth in the outdoor pursuit in recent years. Compared to 2006 (the first year of the study), hiking is up 15.1%. Compared to 2010, participation in hiking has increased by 5.8%.

* Though backpacking has seen an increase in the number of participants over each of the last 2 years, the average number of outings per backpacker has dropped off sharply. As a result, backpacking has dropped out of the top 5 favorite outdoor activities for adults (ages 25+), based on the frequency of activity.

* Camping (within a 1/4 mile of a vehicle or home) continues to decline: down 11% when compared to 2011, and down almost 18% since 2006.

* Participation in adventure racing and triathlons saw the largest increases over the past three years. Adventure racing increased by 28%, while off-road triathlons increased by 25% and road triathlons increased by 10%.

In 2013, the top 5 most popular outdoor activities for adults (ages 25+), based on participation rates were:

1. Running, Jogging and Trail Running - 16.2% of adults
2. Fishing - 14.8% of adults
3. Bicycling (Road, Mountain and BMX) - 13.1% of adults
4. Hiking - 11.4% of adults
5. Camping (Car, Backyard and RV) - 10.6% of adults

The top 5 favorite outdoor activities for adults (ages 25+), based on frequency of activity were:

1. Running, Jogging and Trail Running - 81.4 average outings per runner
2. Bicycling (Road, Mountain and BMX) - 51.7 average outings per cyclist
3. Birdwatching - 37.7 average outings per birdwatcher
4. Wildlife Viewing - 25.2 average outings per viewer
5. Hunting - 24.2 average outings per hunter

The report is based on online and household surveys of more than 19,000 Americans ages six and older, and covers 43 different outdoor activities, making it the largest survey of its kind. To download a complete copy of the 2014 Outdoor Recreation Topline Participation Report, visit The Outdoor Foundation website.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

St. Mary Visitor Center Closed Temporarily

The St. Mary Visitor Center on the east side of Glacier National Park is temporarily closed. Park rangers responded to an alarm at the visitor center at approximately 4 a.m. today. It is believed that the visitor center furnace may have malfunctioned and the water sprinkler system activated. There is water damage to the building and contents, as well as to some of the utilities. The extent of the damage is being assessed.

A visitor contact and information center is set up in the visitor center parking lot. Park rangers will be available to assist visitors.

Back country permits and aquatic invasive species (AIS) boat inspections will be available at the Hudson Bay District Office located in the park administrative area in St. Mary. Signs near the park entrance will be posted to provide directions.

The park shuttle system and transportation services by Xanterra and Sun Tours are unaffected and operating as scheduled. The restroom facilities at the visitor center are available. Evening interpretive programs continue at the St. Mary Campground as scheduled.

There is no phone service at the St. Mary Visitor Center at this time. Visitors are encouraged to contact the park at 406-888-7800 for park information, or click here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Full-Scale Search for Overdue Hiker Leads to Discovery of an Apparent Fatal Fall

The body of an overdue hiker was discovered at approximately 2:30 p.m. yesterday, July 22nd, near the mouth of Cascade Canyon in Grand Teton National Park. Will Cornyn, 36, of San Francisco, California did not have a pulse when one of several search teams found him lying below a steep cliff band near Inspiration Point. He was pronounced dead on the scene at 2:53 p.m. by park EMTs in consultation with the park's medical director, Dr. A.J. Wheeler.

Cornyn headed out late Sunday afternoon, July 20th, from the southeast shore of Jenny Lake with a goal to hike to Lake Solitude in the North Fork of Cascade Canyon. He did not return to his campsite at Jenny Lake that evening, and was reported overdue by his girlfriend at noon on Monday, July 21st. Cornyn had not planned for an overnight stay in the backcountry and did not carry equipment necessary for spending a night in the mountains.

A "hasty" search was initiated Monday afternoon with park rangers who were on routine patrol and additional rangers were called into service. Two rangers also flew in the Teton Interagency contract helicopter to conduct an aerial search until darkness prevented further efforts. The aerial search was temporarily delayed by intense thunderstorms that passed across the Teton Range and battered the peaks with heavy rain, strong winds and lightning strikes.

Seventy-four people gathered early Tuesday morning to begin a full-scale search for the missing hiker, not seen since 5 p.m. Sunday. Multiple Grand Teton National Park employees and Teton Interagency fire personnel—plus a Teton Interagency helitak crew, a Teton Interagency contract helicopter, four search dog teams from Wyoming K-9 and JH Search Dogs, and several park volunteers—thoroughly searched numerous backcountry locations in Cascade Canyon and Paintbrush Canyon and surrounding areas in a coordinated effort to locate the overdue hiker. After nearly six hours, one of 19 assigned search parties discovered Cornyn. His body was extricated from Inspiration Point via a helicopter long-line and turned over to the Teton County coroner about 4:30 p.m.

As the extensive search for Cornyn was getting launched, a second search and rescue operation began for a guided climbing party that missed a routine check-in call during a climb of the Grand Traverse on Monday evening. A Teton Interagency contract helicopter with two rangers on board flew a reconnaissance mission at 8:45 a.m. to locate the guided party and determine if assistance was needed. Scott Huntsman, 48, of Salt Lake City, Utah and his climbing guide with Exum Mountain Guides were attempting the Grand Traverse of the Teton peaks and had just descended to Gunsight Notch above Valhalla Canyon at approximately 4 p.m. Monday when a rockfall, possibly triggered by the afternoon rainstorm, struck Huntsman and injured his foot. The climbers' rope was trapped by the rockfall and they had to cut it free. Using the remaining 120 feet of rope, the two climbers rappelled to a point in Gunsight Couloir where they settled in for the night on a ledge. Early Tuesday morning, the Exum guide helped Huntsman descend over snow to a location near the bottom of Valhalla Canyon where a rescue helicopter could land. He then hiked out to seek help from park rangers. The Exum guide encountered searchers in Cascade Canyon who were looking for Will Cornyn. The helicopter attached to the Cornyn search was able to land near Huntsman at an elevation of 9,500 feet. He was placed inside the ship for an evacuation flight to the Jenny Lake Rescue Cache. Huntsman was then transported by personal vehicle around 12:30 p.m. to St. John's Medical Center in Jackson, Wyoming.

An additional emergency call came in at 11:30 a.m. for a 16-year-old hiker with a knee injury who was situated just below the Cascade Canyon forks. Searchers already in the field for the full-scale search diverted to assist the injured teen and provide medical care. The young hiker was ultimately able to hike out with assistance by the attending searchers.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Creates $179 Million in Economic Benefit

A new National Park Service report shows that the 2.2 million visitors to Glacier National Park in 2013 spent nearly $179 million in communities near the park. That spending supported 2,824 jobs in the local area.

Glacier National Park Superintendent Jeff Mow said, “Glacier National Park plays a critical role as an economic driver in Montana.” Mow said that the report indicates that national park tourism returns $10 for every $1 invested across the country, and that’s significant, especially in the local and regional economy of Montana.

The peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by U.S. Geological Survey economists Catherine Cullinane Thomas and Christopher Huber and Lynne Koontz for the National Park Service. The report shows $14.6 billion of direct spending by 273.6 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park. This spending supported more than 237,000 jobs nationally, with more than 197,000 jobs found in these gateway communities, and had a cumulative benefit to the U.S. economy of $26.5 billion.

According to the 2013 economic analysis, most visitor spending was for lodging (30.3%) followed by food and beverages (27.3%), gas and oil (12.1%), admissions and fees (10.3%) and souvenirs and other expenses (10%).

The largest jobs categories supported by visitor spending were restaurants and bars (50,000 jobs) and lodging (38,000 jobs).

The full report is available here and includes information for visitor spending at individual parks and by state.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Bear euthanized after charging picnickers in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Rangers euthanized a black bear from the Two Medicine area on Friday, July 18, after several reports in which the bear exhibited apparent food-conditioned behavior, including an incident in which the bear charged a picnicking family.

On Thursday, July 17, the black bear approached a family that was eating at a picnic table at the Two Medicine Picnic Area. The family yelled and clapped hands, but the bear charged towards the table, and the family retreated to their vehicle. The bear consumed the food and left the area after a park ranger repeatedly hazed the bear with rubber bullets and bean bags.

This same black bear was observed digging in a fire pit in the area, and did not seem bothered by human presence. There were several sightings of the bear on and near to the park trail system along the shore of Two Medicine Lake. The bear was determined to be a food-conditioned bear, and a threat to human safety. Trail and picnic area closures were implemented in Two Medicine.

The bear was euthanized. This action is consistent with Glacier National Park’s Bear Management Plan. The male bear was approximately five years old and weighed approximately 225 pounds.

Food-conditioned bears are those that have sought and obtained non-natural foods, destroyed property or displayed aggressive, non-defensive behavior towards humans and are removed from the wild. Food-conditioned bears are not relocated due to human safety concerns.

Black bears are not good candidates for animal capture facilities such as zoos and animal parks due to the plentiful nature of the species throughout the United States.

Park visitors are reminded to keep campgrounds and developed areas clean and free of food and trash. Regulations require that all edibles, food containers, and cookware be stored in a hard-sided vehicle or food locker when not in use, day or night. Place all trash in bear-proof containers. Do not burn waste in fire rings or leave litter around your camp. Fire rings should be free of trash before vacating a campsite.

If you see a bear along the road, park officials ask that you not stop. Stopping and watching roadside bears will likely start a "bear jam" as other motorists follow your lead. "Bear jams" are hazardous to both people and bears as visibility is reduced and bears may feel threatened by the congestion. You should report all bear sightings to the nearest ranger.

Visitors to Glacier National Park are also reminded that the park is home to both black and grizzly bears. Hikers are highly encouraged to hike in groups, make noise when hiking, and have bear spray accessible and know how to use it. For more information about recreating in bear country, please click here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Water System Temporarily Down at Logan Pass

Visitors to Logan Pass are encouraged to bring their own water or refillable water bottle this week while temporary water tanks are being installed.

The water system at Logan Pass will be shut down later this afternoon, July 22nd, at approximately 5 p.m. It's anticipated that a temporary system will be operating by the weekend. During this week, the park will provide a number of large water bottles in the Logan Pass Parking area for visitors to fill their personal water bottles. Personal refillable water bottles are also available for purchase at the Logan Pass Visitor Center from the Glacier National Park Conservancy.

The public restroom facilities at Logan Pass will be operational.

The permanent water tank that provides drinking water to Logan Pass will be rehabilitated and coated this summer and fall. During this time, two temporary tanks will be utilized to provide drinking water.

Last week the temporary 5,000-gallon tanks were transported to Logan Pass via the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and then air lifted to a location approximately one-half mile northwest of the visitor center. The project is anticipated to be completed this fall, and the temporary tanks will be removed at that time. All work being conducted will be in compliance with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and US Public Health Service.

The main water tank that provides drinking water to Logan Pass was installed in 1964. The tank’s interior and exterior surfaces need to be sandblasted and coated. The circular tank is approximately eight feet high and 17 feet in diameter, and has a 13,600-gallon capacity. It is also located about one-half mile from the Logan Pass Visitor Center.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Artist-in-Residence Showcases Glacier

The Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center at Glacier National Park is hosting a free brown-bag lecture on Thursday, July 24 from 12– 1pm at the Community Building in West Glacier. The public is invited to join Glacier National Park Artist-in-Residence, Melinda Whipplesmith Plank, who will demonstrate the process of printmaking and display prints inspired by Glacier National Park.

Whipplesmith Plank is a print artist from California who uses wood blocks and colored inks to create art. Her work has received regional and international acclaim, and was recently included in the 2014 “Birds in Art” show at the Woodson Art Museum in Wisconsin. She is a member of the California Society of Printmakers and has worked as a public school educator for over 20 years.

The Glacier National Park Artist-in-Residence program offers professional artists four weeks of focused time to creatively explore the natural and cultural resources of the park’s landscape while pursuing their artistic goals. The program also allows artists opportunity to share their work with an international audience through educational programs and exhibits. Whipplesmith Plank is serving as Glacier National Park’s Artist-in-Residence for the month of July.

The Glacier National Park Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center hosts brown-bag lectures throughout the year. Please click here for more information.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Injured Hiker Rescued from Garnet Canyon in Grand Tetons

A backcountry hiker received a serious injury to her leg after jumping from a rock while descending the Cache Couloir above the Platforms in Garnet Canyon on Sunday afternoon. In response to a call for help, Grand Teton National Park rangers initiated a short-haul rescue operation to extricate Joanna Wang, 23, of Boyds, Maryland from the 9,600-foot remote location with assistance from a Teton Interagency contract helicopter.

After jumping from the rock at around 4:30 on Sunday, July 20th, Wang was unable to move her leg and her hiking party of five dialed 911 to report the need for assistance. Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received the emergency call at 5:45 p.m. and immediately notified park rangers. A Teton Interagency contract helicopter had just flown south of Jackson, Wyoming to the Wolf Creek area of the Bridger-Teton National Forest to locate a possible fire start, when rangers diverted the ship to assist with a short-haul evacuation of Wang.

The Interagency helicopter flew three park rangers into Garnet Canyon to conduct a reconnaissance flight and pinpoint Wang's location. Shortly after spotting Wang and her companions, the ship was able to land in Garnet Meadows. Two rangers hiked the additional distance to reach her at 7:55 p.m. and provide emergency medical care. A decision was made to short-haul Wang via an aerial evacuation suit, with an attending rescuer, to the Jenny Lake Rescue Cache at Lupine Meadows. The ship landed on the valley floor at the rescue cache at 8:30 p.m., and Wang was then transported to St. John's Medical Center for further care.

Wang and her party told rangers that they did not have specific hiking plans for the day. Because the group was unsure of their exact location when the accident occurred, rescuers had to use 'pings' from three separate cell phone calls to obtain GPS coordinates. Only the third call provided accurate coordinates. Fortunately for Wang and her companions, rescuers were able to locate and access them before dark.

Rangers remind backcountry users to be prepared for emergencies and take personal responsibility for the welfare of each member of the party. Often in the event of an accident, hikers or climbers must depend first on themselves and their own party. Factors such as weather, darkness, or unexpected hazards may delay or even prevent an organized rescue response. Rangers also urge inexperienced hikers and climbers to obtain instruction and experience in proper ice axe technique (self-arrest and self-belay) before tackling routes that require potentially hazardous snowfield crossings.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Man convicted of operating illegal hiking guide service in Grand Canyon

Brazen? Or just brazenly stupid?

The NPS Morning Report is reporting that on October 19, 2013, rangers in the backcountry of Grand Canyon National Park became suspicious of the large number of hikers attempting to hike from the North Rim to the South Rim in a single day (known as a “Rim to Rim” hike). The hikers claimed to be hiking only with a small number of friends and not as part of a large group, but many appeared to be avoiding contact with rangers and they all described similar travel arrangements.

Subsequent investigations revealed that Scott Beck of Phoenix, Arizona, had chartered five buses to transport nearly 300 people to Grand Canyon National Park to hike across the canyon. Beck advertised the hike as the “23rd Annual” trip of a similar nature and charged each participant a set fee. Investigations also revealed that he had specifically instructed each hiker, both verbally and in a written itinerary, to tell rangers that they were “not with a group of 300,” that they were with a small group and had been transported by car or van.

The large number of hikers in the canyon that day caused impacts to vegetation and created long lines at the Phantom Ranch canteen and restroom facilities. The Phantom wastewater treatment operator reported that the sewage treatment plant was operating at capacity. Rangers took complaints from hikers who complained about congestion on the trails. Several minor medicals and search and rescue operations were also attributed to Beck’s group.

During interviews, Beck claimed that his trip was “organized” but not commercial, and that he had not profited. In January 2013, rangers served a search warrant on an online event registration website that Beck had used to solicit trip participants and collect fees. The evidence gathered from the search warrant was used to develop probable cause to charge Beck with engaging in an illegal business operation (36 CFR 5.3) and making false statements (18 USC 1001(a)(2)). Rangers estimated that Beck’s gross income for this event was over $47,000, and he profited by approximately $9,500.

On June 10th, Beck was convicted on one count of engaging in business operations without obtaining a permit in violation of 36 CFR 5.3. Pursuant to a plea agreement, he was sentenced to a year of probation, during which time he is banned from Grand Canyon National Park and from conducting or advertising for any tours or guided trips on national park or national forest lands. He was also fined $500 and ordered to serve 50 hours of community service.

Beck has since formally notified all trip participants that he will no longer be conducting his annual trip, and has pledged to donate $2,000 to Grand Canyon National Park.

The investigation was led by rangers and conducted with the assistance of Investigative Services Branch special agents.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Enjoy High Elevation Hikes in Glacier National Park

Several of Glacier National Park’s high elevation hikes are open to the public, but snow and snow hazards remain in many areas. Visitors planning to hike are encouraged to be mindful of their hiking skills and comfort levels, and to prepare accordingly.

Hikers should be wary of snowfields and steep areas in the higher elevations. Snow bridges may exist, and hard to identify. A snow bridge may completely cover an opening, such as a creek, and present a danger. It may create an illusion of unbroken surface while hiding an opening under a layer of snow, creating an unstable surface.

It is important to know the terrain you are about to hike or climb, and carry the appropriate equipment. When hiking may include snowfield travel, visitors should know how to travel in such challenging conditions, including knowing how to use crampons and an ice axe. It is recommended to have layers of clothing available, appropriate footwear, including boots with lug soles, a map, first-aid kit, water and food. Always communicate to someone your planned route of travel and your expected time of return.

There are over 700 miles of trails in Glacier National Park providing a variety of hiking opportunities. During July and August many of the more popular trails can be crowded. Visitors are encouraged to consider a lesser used trail or more remote trail during this time. Please click here for a comprehensive list of hiking options. For more information about trail status, please visit the park’s website.

Caution should be used near rivers and streams, as water may be extremely cold, and running swift and high. Avoid wading or fording in swift moving water, as well as walking, playing and climbing on slippery rocks and logs.

The Highline Trail is open, but snow remains past Haystack Butte. Strong hiking skills and snow travel skills, as well as the appropriate equipment, are recommended. The Ptarmigan Tunnel is open. Stock access to Iceberg/Ptarmigan Trail is prohibited due to a temporary bridge that allows foot traffic, but it is not suitable for stock.

Hikers on the east side are encouraged to use the park’s shuttle system. It is free, and the shuttle has stops along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Due to road rehabilitation activities on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, parking to access the St. Mary, Virginia and Barring Falls areas is very challenging and the shuttle system may be a convenient alternative. Sun Point is closed to all visitor traffic including picnicking, transit, restroom use, and hiking. For more information about the shuttle system and stops, please click here.

Interested hikers may complete a voluntary day trip plan form that may help plan a trip and be a valuable tool for family and friends, and perhaps park rangers, if search and rescue efforts are needed. This voluntary form is not collected by the National Park Service because it is a courtesy form to help visitors plan day trips and communicate plans with family and friends. The form can be obtained here.

Glacier National Park is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Hikers are encouraged to hike in groups, carry bear spray that is easily accessible, and make noise at regular intervals along the trail. Bears spend a lot of time eating, so hikers should be extra alert while in or near feeding areas such as berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. Hiking early in the morning, late in the day, or after dark is not encouraged. Trail running is not recommended as it has led to surprise bear encounters. For more information about recreating in bear country visit the park’s website.

Rehabilitation work on the Going-to-the-Sun Road continues with activity on the east side occurring between Siyeh Bend and Rising Sun. Use caution when traveling this nine-mile stretch of roadway as it is a rough, gravel surface this summer and fall. Visitors can expect 30-minute maximum traffic delays between Siyeh Bend and Rising Sun, and no delays on the west side. The contractors working on the road rehabilitation have been working daily, seven days a week. It is anticipated that weekend work on the Going-to-the-Sun Road will be completed by the end of July.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Altocumulus Lenticularus

A couple of weeks ago Kathy and I took a trip out to Rocky Mountain National Park. During our visit we took a hike up to Deer Mountain. As we got near the top I noticed an odd and fairly uncommon cloud in the sky. We stayed at the summit for roughly an hour, and all the while the cloud basically remained in the same general location, while seemingly holding the same general shape throughout much of that time period:

Since Kathy used to work for a local TV station, she sent a couple of photos to a friend of hers who used to be the Chief Meteorologist at the station, and asked him what we were seeing that day. Since Tom has recently started his own local weather blog, he published his reply to Kathy's questions on a recent post:

These are some of my favorites from when I was in grad school in Colorado. You only see them in mountainous areas. These are officially called altocumulus lenticularus. (higher altitude versions are called cirrocumulus lenticularus) More common names are “lens clouds” or “cap clouds.” Another common description is “standing wave clouds.” The “lens” or “cap” feature is very clear on these photos. The best example is the left side of the lower picture. Three good ones are on the top picture…one just to the left of the tall center tree…on the left edge of the photo and a small one of the right edge. The cause of these clouds is the barrier of the mountains. On days when the upper level winds are generally from the west AND there is just a little moisture on the air west of the Rockies (a pretty common experience, the air approaching the mountains between roughly 10,000 and 15,000 feet is forced to rise to get over the top of the mountain range which in Colorado is about 13,000 to 15,000 feet. This forced rising/cooling of the air condenses moisture only at the very top of the ridges, then fades away quickly as the air descends east of the mountain crest. This little bit of cloud formation gives the “lens” and/or “cap” nature of the clouds. The standing wave cloud gets its name from the observation that the clouds do not move. You can watch them for hours and they still look the same. In reality, the cloud is changing rapidly – constant supply of the rising and keeps building the cloud from the west while the sinking motions to the east evaporate parts of cloud trying to move off the mountain tops. So, the clouds “appear” to stand still.

On days when the conditions are almost perfect, in addition to the clouds standing on the mountain peaks, you may see as many 1-4 additional lines of “cap” clouds standing east of the hills out on to the plains. That’s even more spectacular!

Here's one more photo that I took right before we headed back down the mountain:

Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Public Invited to Waterton-Glacier Science and History Day

The Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park will host the Waterton-Glacier Science and History Day on Tuesday, July 29, from 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Falls Theatre in Waterton Lakes National Park of Alberta, Canada. The event is free of charge and all are encouraged to attend. This year marks the 11th annual event. Each year the event alternates between Glacier and Waterton Lakes National Parks.

Science and History Day is a great way for the public to hear the latest results from scientists and historians carrying out projects in and around the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Topics are presented in a non-technical manner, and are grouped into themes such as aquatic resources, history, social research and wildlife. Some of the topics for this year include: harlequin ducks, hair snares for grizzly bears, native plant gardens, alpine stream insects, learning from the Sofa Mountain fire, wolverines, and ice patch archaeology.

Waterton Lakes National Park Superintendent Ifan Thomas commented, “Science and History Day offers an outstanding opportunity for the public to learn about some of the research initiatives in the Peace Park. We welcome everyone to Waterton for this special event.”

Glacier National Park Superintendent Jeff Mow said, “The peace and friendship of the Peace Park is captured in the many cooperative projects carried out in our scientific community. All the speakers do an excellent job of presenting topics in a nontechnical manner.”

Office of Public Instruction (OPI) renewal units will be available for Montana teachers who attend this conference. Attendees are reminded that a passport is required for crossing the U.S./Canada Border. A detailed agenda is available at visitor centers in Glacier National Park and online.

For more information contact the Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center, Glacier National Park at 406-888-5827, or Waterton Lakes National Park at 403-859-5127.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Rangers Respond to Two Separate Water Incidents

Glacier National Park Rangers responded to two water rescue incidents yesterday afternoon. At approximately 12:30 p.m. yesterday, park dispatch was notified that a child had fallen into McDonald Creek near Red Rock Point along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and at approximately 1:30 p.m. rangers were alerted to a raft accident on the North Fork of the Flathead River.

A family from Georgia was participating in a red bus tour when they made a stop at Red Rock Point. The family’s 12-year son was playing on a log and fell into McDonald Creek. He was swept down creek approximately 20 yards in a constricted and steep area with very fast moving water. A male visitor from Wisconsin recreating in the area jumped in the creek, retrieved the boy and safely got him to the other side of the creek. Rangers responded with an inflatable kayak and life jackets, and transported the boy and the man safely back across the creek. There were no injuries.

As the Red Rock Point incident was happening, rangers were also responding to the North Fork of the Flathead River to search for individuals believed to be separated from a flipped raft.

Recreationists at the Flathead National Forest Glacier Rim area along the Flathead River, about 12 miles north of Columbia Falls, observed a cooler, some plastic bags with personal belongings and a life preserver float down river. Park rangers, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, Two Bear Helicopter and members of the North Valley Search and Rescue responded to the incident. A family from California, two adults and two children, were flipped as they were rafting. All individuals had life jackets. After the raft flipped, the river current carried them a short distance down river, and to the park side of the river. Crew aboard the Two Bear Helicopter spotted the family and a boat was dispatched to pick them up and transport them to their vehicle. Individuals were wet and cold, but there were no injuries.

All recreationists are reminded to be cautious of the various hazards associated with outdoor recreation near and on water. Many of the lakes, rivers and streams still have high and fast moving water at this time. Park visitors are reminded that wading in or fording swift moving water should be avoided. Never walk, play or climb on slippery rocks and logs, especially near swift moving water or waterfalls. When boating and rafting, always wear a life jacket. Drowning is a major cause of fatalities in the park.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Woman Drowns After Falling into McDonald Creek

The woman that fell into McDonald Creek this past Saturday, Abigail Sylvester, died on Sunday, July 13th, as a result of the incident. The cause of death was drowning.

At approximately 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, Glacier National Park dispatch was notified that a woman fell into McDonald Creek, near the upper falls, and was being carried downstream.

Initial investigation indicates Sylvester was with her husband along McDonald Creek, near the bridge below the upper McDonald Creek Falls, when she slipped and fell into the creek. It is believed she was taking photos when she slipped. The creek current swept her downstream. Her husband jumped into the creek in an attempt to save her, but had to self-rescue himself to the creek bank due to deep and fast-moving water at this location.

A visitor on an interpretive tour in the area saw the woman being carried downstream and the interpretive park ranger leading the tour notified park dispatch of the situation. Park rangers responded to find the woman near the outlet of McDonald Creek into Lake McDonald, approximately ½ mile from where she fell in. She was carried over Lower McDonald Creek Falls, approximately 30 feet in height.

Several visitors provided assistance during the incident. A father, mother and teenage son, traveling the Going-to-the-Sun Road, were aware of the incident and went to the bridge near the Lower McDonald Creek Falls to search for the woman. The father, a volunteer fireman, spotted something believed to be the woman. He waded into the creek, and began swimming in waist-deep water as he was able to retrieve her. His son helped get her on a small island. The father and son, two other male visitors, and park rangers assisted with and performed CPR.

Three Rivers Ambulance and ALERT responded to the scene. ALERT transported the Buckley, Washington woman to Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Park rangers are conducting an investigation.

Park visitors are reminded to use caution around all bodies of water. Water is cold, fast moving and high in most places at this time, and rocks can be very slippery. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in the park.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Rangers Respond to a Climbing Fatality on the Grand Teton & Injured Hiker in Upper Paintbrush Canyon

A climbing accident on the 13,770-foot Grand Teton resulted in the death of one member of a guided climbing party on Monday morning, July 14 , in Grand Teton National Park. Mary Bilyeu, 43, of Edmond, Oklahoma was ascending to the Upper Saddle of the Grand Teton (elevation 13,160 feet) with her climbing partner and a guide from Jackson Hole Mountain Guides when she fell while negotiating a short section above the Exum Gully about 8:30 a.m.

Grand Teton National Park rangers were notified of the accident at 8:40 a.m. and a rescue response was quickly initiated. Two park rangers on routine patrol at the Lower Saddle of the Grand Teton (11,600 feet) climbed to the accident site to begin emergency medical care and prepare the injured climber for a helicopter evacuation. Bilyeu was unresponsive when park rangers arrived on scene and could not be revived. She was pronounced dead in consultation with the park's medical director, Dr. AJ Wheeler, and park rangers on scene. Other Jackson Hole Mountain Guides staff responded to the area and escorted Bilyeu's climbing partner to the Corbet High Camp near the Lower Saddle, and later escorted her to Lupine Meadows trailhead on the valley floor.

The circumstances leading to this climbing accident are under investigation by Grand Teton National Park rangers and no further details are available at this time.

Rangers began to coordinate a body recovery on the Grand Teton when Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received a second emergency call at approximately 11 a.m. from a hiking party near Paintbrush Divide. Silas Peterson of Santa Fe, New Mexico fell while descending Paintbrush Divide into Paintbrush Canyon and sustained multiple injuries. Although Peterson was using an ice axe, he slid down a steep snow-covered slope, could not self-arrest, and fell an additional 150 feet through steep loose rock. Peterson's hiking partner called 911 to report the accident. Another party ascending from Paintbrush Canyon witnessed the event and also called 911. That party then hiked to Peterson to provide first aid until rescuers arrived.

A Teton Interagency contract helicopter readied to assist with the rescue operations on the Grand Teton was diverted to transport rescuers to Paintbrush Divide. Two park rangers were short-hauled to the Divide from the Lupine Meadows Rescue Cache, and they descended snow and rock to reach Peterson at 11:45 a.m. A rescue litter was also flown to the scene. Peterson was provided emergency medical care and evacuated from Paintbrush Divide via short-haul with a ranger attending. Upon arriving at Lupine Meadows Rescue Cache, Peterson was treated by the park's medical director, Dr. AJ Wheeler, before being transported at approximately 1:15 p.m. via an Air Idaho life-flight helicopter to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho for further medical care. Peterson and his partner were on the final day of a six-day Teton Crest Trail backpacking trip.

Both rescue operations were affected by the forecast and subsequent arrival of severe thunderstorms that pummeled the Teton Range and Jackson Hole valley with lightning strikes and several waves of rain, hail and high winds.

Park rangers remind backcountry hikers that late season snow remains in the high country and some of the mountain passes still have very steep and firm snow that must be cautiously negotiated. Ice axes and crampons may be necessary for safe travel in some areas. Please stop by a Ranger Station for the most up-to-date trail conditions.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Latest Update on Bear Attack near Columbia Falls

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) personnel are still investigating a bear attack on a woman who was running with her dogs on Forest Service property in the Cedar Flats area north of Columbia Falls. The attack occurred late in the morning of July 3rd.

According to FWP investigator Brian Somers, the bear ran from the trees and attacked one of the dogs. The runner yelled at the bear, then lay on her side on the ground. The bear charged and grabbed the runner just above the hip area, biting her several times. The bear then turned back to the dogs. The runner sat up and the bear returned and bit her on the head several times. The bear then released its grip and ran back into the woods. The dogs ran off. According to Sommers, the victim was not armed with bear pepper spray. Later, the victim’s husband came back and retrieved the dogs which were injured but alive. This account is based on initial interviews and site visits. Sommers will be piecing together the final details of the incident over the coming weeks

“Running with dogs can be a potential hazard, “says FWP Bear and Lion Specialist Erik Wenum. “A dog running off-leash can encounter a bear or other animal, and potentially bring the bear back to the owner.” Wenum adds that all hikers or runners should carry bear pepper spray as a safety precaution.

Several things about the bear are still unknown. Although investigators believe it was a black bear, this is uncertain. The victim told investigators that she thought it was a black bear. Also uncertain are the sex of the bear and the presence of cubs. Investigators have been unable to locate the offending bear. The trap set for the bear last week has been removed; no activity was noted at the trap site. The USFS will open the Cedar Flats trail area this afternoon.

According to FWP Investigator Brian Sommers, the victim is recovering from several bites in the torso and head area, and claw wounds, after being released from the North Valley Hospital on the day of the attack. This type of surprise encounter is unfortunate and FWP wishes the victim a complete recovery.

“All of northwest Montana is bear country,” says Wenum. “Besides carrying pepper spray, hikers should be aware of their surroundings at all times.”



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Montana's Outdoor Recreation Plan for 2014-2018 Now Available Online

Montana State Parks has announced that Montana's Outdoor Recreation Plan titled Creating a Vibrant Future for Montana's Outdoor Recreation Heritage, is now available to the public.

Creating a Vibrant Future for Montana's Outdoor Recreation Heritage is a roadmap for public recreation planning in Montana for 2014-2018. Developed through the collaboration of federal, state and local outdoor recreation providers, land managers, and partners, the plan serves as a catalyst to enhance the quality of life of all Montanans and support vibrant communities through a growing recreation industry.

The plan looks at Montana's existing outdoor recreation facilities and resources, growing demands for recreation activities, and evaluates national and state trends. It also provides strategic recommendations for prioritizing recreational needs safely while maintaining the quality of natural, cultural, and recreational resources on Montana's public lands.

Creating a Vibrant Future for Montana's Outdoor Recreation Heritage will help set recreation policy throughout Montana for the next 5 years.

Its creation is a requirement for Montana to receive funding from Federal Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Montana has already been awarded $409,615 in LWCF funds for 2015.

Since the LWCF program's inception nearly 50 years ago, Montana has received more than $38 million in grant funding for community recreation projects. Nearly 800 projects across the state have been made possible through this funding, ranging from development of local parks, ball fields, and swimming pools to parks land acquisition. Montana State Parks administers the LWCF grant program. This program funding is completely separate from all Montana State Park revenues, camping fees, and related funding sources.

The public is welcome to view or download the completed plan by clicking here. A limited number of printed copies are also available by request through Montana State Parks Headquarters at (406) 444-3750, P.O. 200701, 1420 E. 6th Ave., Helena, MT 59620.

Montana's Outdoor Recreation Plan was developed through collaboration of an advisory committee representing federal, state, and local recreation managers, and tourism partners, along with public surveys of Montana residents by the University of Montana Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research and additional national and state agency data collection.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

The Roads are Melting in Yellowstone!

Alright, that may be a bit of hyperbole, but Firehole Lake Drive in Yellowstone National Park has been temporarily closed due to damaged road surface from extreme heat.

The park announced this afternoon that extreme heat from surrounding thermal areas has caused thick oil to bubble to the surface, damaging the blacktop and creating unsafe driving conditions on the popular, scenic road, located off the Grand Loop Road halfway between Old Faithful and Madison Junction in the park’s Lower Geyser Basin. The 3.3-mile loop drive takes visitors past Great Fountain Geyser, White Dome Geyser and Firehole Lake.

The road will remain closed for the next several days while maintenance crews make repairs. The date for reopening the road is uncertain at this time, and will be determined after crews assess the effectiveness of their efforts.

Updated Yellowstone National Park road information is available 24 hours a day by calling 307-344-2117 or clicking here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Public Invited to Brown-Bag Seminar

The Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center at Glacier National Park is hosting a free brown-bag lecture on Monday, July 14 from 12– 1pm at the Community Building in West Glacier. The public is invited to join Bob Chinn, a retired educator, for a multimedia presentation showcasing butterfly and moth species in Glacier National Park.

With over 100 documented species of butterflies and many more species of moths in Glacier National Park, these pollinators play an important role in the park’s ecosystem. Butterflies are considered indicators of biodiversity and have been collected by park naturalists since the 1930s. The pinned specimens are part of the Glacier National Park museum collection.

A retired educator from Illinois, Chinn has been exploring Glacier National Park for many years, capturing photographs of butterflies and moths within the park. Through photographs and video clips, Chinn will lead guests on a virtual tour of the park’s Lepidoptera. Chinn will also share his eBook, “Lepidoptera of Glacier National Park.”

The Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center provides a variety of opportunities to learn about research, history, and resource issues happening within Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park. For more information about the brown-bag presentation, please click here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

2014 Recreational Trails Program Grants Awarded - Wide Diversity of Trail Projects Funded

Montana State Parks announced last week that 58 trail organizations, communities, and various land-managing agencies throughout Montana will receive federal Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant awards for projects in 2014.

A record 89 RTP applications were received this year from a variety of eligible applicants, including federal and state agencies, towns, cities, counties, and private clubs and organizations.

The Recreational Trails Program awards total approximately $1,600,000 in federal funds. The funds are appropriated to the states in the 2012 Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) legislation passed by Congress. MAP-21 legislation expires on September 30, 2014 after which Congressional action is needed to continue funding this program.

"The Recreational Trails Program makes a tremendous difference for so many communities and trail enthusiasts across Montana," said Beth Shumate, Trails Program Manager for Montana State Parks. "The fact that RTP is one of the only programs to remain as a stand-alone program with dedicated funding in MAP-21 validates the strong local and national support for funding recreation and trails."

The RTP Program awards grants through an annual competitive application process. Projects can range from construction and maintenance of trails, development of trailside and trailhead facilities, ethics and avalanche education and trainings, and interpretive programs.

A list of the successful 2014 Recreational Trails Program grant recipients is available by clicking here.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Flathead National Forest Seeks Input on Travel Analysis

The U.S. Forest Service seeks public input on an analysis of the road system on the Flathead National Forest. The travel analysis process (TAP) is a science-based approach that is used to inform future road-related travel management decisions. This travel analysis report (TAR) documents a broad-scale analysis that encompasses all existing National Forest System Roads (NFSR) on the Flathead NF. The report provides a course assessment of the road infrastructure and a set of proposals for change to the forest transportation system that can be evaluated when subsequent site-specific National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) planning is undertaken. This report will not change or modify any existing NEPA decisions, but should help to inform decision makers with future NEPA assessments related to the road infrastructure.

Flathead National Forest Supervisor Chip Weber says, “The travel analysis is not a proposal or decision, but is intended to help inform possible future road management planning. We will need public input to inform the analysis, but this will not be a formal public comment process. Before any projects are implemented on the ground the public will have an opportunity to comment through the NEPA process.”

The Forest Service asks the public to view the analysis and provide input to help identify risks and benefits we may have missed as well as provide feedback on the process used to analyze the road system. An interactive mapping tool reflecting the initial results of the analysis is available on the FNF website and is the primary tool for providing public input. The Forest will accept inputs through July 31, 2014. A hard-copy of the maps which capture the results of the analysis area are available at the Swan Lake, Hungry Horse and Tally Lake Ranger District offices for those not able to view them online.

The agency expects to maintain an appropriately sized and environmentally sustainable road system that is responsive to ecological, economic and social concerns. The national forest system of the future must continue to provide access for recreation and resource management, as well as support watershed restoration and resource protection to sustain healthy ecosystems. Nearly everyone who uses the National Forest will be affected by possible future road management decisions, making it important to work together today to identify a sustainable road system.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

New Restaurant in East Glacier area

Hikers and travelers to the East Glacier Park area will now have a brand new dining option. Opening this Saturday is the brand new Summit Mountain Steakhouse.

To help celebrate the opening of their new restaurant, the folks at the Summit Mountain Lodge are inviting everyone to their Grand Opening.

The celebration will be held this Saturday, July 12th, from 4-9pm. The restaurant will have live music from the incredible John Floridis from 6-9, as well as drink specials all night. Summit Mountain Lodge highly recommends making dining reservations, but there should be room for all to enjoy. The new restaurant will also be raffling off a photo from premiere wildlife photographer, Ted Chase, with all proceeds from the raffle tickets going to a local charity.

For more information on the steakhouse and the grand opening, please visit the Summit Mountain Lodge website.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Public Invited to Noxious Weed Blitz in Glacier

Glacier National Park’s Citizen Science Program announces two opportunities to help with early detection of invasive plants along park trails: Noxious Weed Blitz on July 15 and an online training course for the Invasive Plants Citizen Science program. Both opportunities are free of charge and open to the public.

The fifth annual Noxious Weed Blitz will take place on Tuesday, July 15th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., meeting at the park’s community building in West Glacier. Participants will be trained to assist the Invasive Plant Management Program by learning to identify, map, and pull invasive plants. A free lunch will be provided by the Glacier National Park Conservancy. Be prepared to spend the afternoon in the outdoors, pulling invasive plants. Please bring gloves for hand pulling, footwear for hiking, and drinking water. Please RSVP if you would like to attend.

An online training opportunity teaches participants how to identify five targeted invasive plants, conduct surveys, and map locations of invasive plants using GPS units. Once training has been completed, visitors may check-out GPS units from the Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center to detect invasive plants while in the park. The online training program can be accessed here.

The Invasive Plant Management Program at Glacier manages non-native invasive plants that displace native flora, interrupt ecological processes, or degrade natural scenery. Most infestations of invasive plants in the park are closely correlated to disturbed areas such as roadsides, recreational areas, and construction sites. However, the 700 miles of backcountry trails also provide a corridor for invasive plants to spread and monitoring is often difficult.

In 2008, the Invasive Plant Management Program and Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center established a citizen science program to enlist the help of the public to map the spread of invasive species in the backcountry. The Citizen Science Program, now in its ninth year, is supported by the Glacier National Park Conservancy, fostering stewardship while providing critical baseline information on Common Loons, mountain goats, pikas, and invasive plants. For more information about the Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center, please click here.

Attending the Noxious Weed Blitz or completing online training enables participants to continue monitoring invasive plants during future hikes in the backcountry. To sign-up for the Noxious Weed Blitz or learn more about the event please contact the Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center at 406-888-7986 or glac_citizen_science@nps.gov.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Glacier Park, Inc. Announces Purchase of Property in West Glacier and Apgar

Viad Corp, parent company of Glacier Park, Inc., announced last week that it had completed its acquisition of the West Glacier Motel & Cabins, the Apgar Village Lodge and related land, food and beverage services and retail operations.

Paul B. Dykstra, Viad's chairman, president and chief executive officer, said, "This transaction represents an important addition to our Glacier Park business as it expands our share of rooms in the Glacier National Park area, making us the largest provider of overnight accommodations, food and beverage services and retail operations in that market. The acquired assets are uniquely positioned at the heavily trafficked West entrance to the park and inside the park itself. We are committed to expanding our high-margin hospitality and recreational attractions portfolio."

The West Glacier Motel & Cabins is a 32-room property situated on approximately 200 acres at the West entrance of Glacier National Park, along the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road and adjacent to the West Glacier Amtrak station. Full-service amenities include the West Glacier Restaurant, West Glacier Mercantile, West Glacier Gift Shop, West Glacier Shirt Company, a gas station and employee housing.

The Apgar Village Lodge is a 48-room property situated on a 3.8 acre private inholding inside Glacier National Park along McDonald Creek near Lake McDonald. In addition to overnight accommodations, the Apgar assets also include the Cedar Tree Gift Shop and employee housing.

Cindy Ognjanov president of Glacier Park, Inc., said, "We are honored and excited to add the West Glacier and Apgar properties to our operations in the Glacier National Park area. They complement our existing assets by adding scale and additional location options that will enhance our guests' enjoyment of this majestic area and reinforce our position as the Gateway to Glacier. This acquisition also extends the reach of our environmental stewardship programs further into the community, and it broadens our position as a hospitality employer of choice in Glacier County and in the state of Montana. We are committed to the community and to delivering top-notch guest services."

In addition to the West Glacier and Apgar assets, Glacier Park, Inc. owns and operates the St. Mary Lodge (located at the East entrance of the park, along Going to the Sun Road), Motel Lake McDonald (an inholding within Glacier National Park), Glacier Park Lodge, Grouse Mountain Lodge and the Prince of Wales Hotel, which are located in and around Glacier National Park in Montana and Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada.

Additionally, more than 150 undeveloped acres were included in this purchase. This has many in the area concerned as to what will become of this land.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Going-to-the-Sun Road to Logan Pass is Now Open

Yesterday afternoon Glacier National Park announced that they were anticipating that the entire Going-to-the-Sun Road was to be open to vehicle travel later in the evening. The park announced that road crews had finished snow removal, debris clean-up work, guard rail installation, and facility preparation, as well assessing snow conditions. The Logan Pass Visitor Center was also expected to open this morning, July 3rd. The visitor center will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., including a bookstore managed by the Glacier National Park Conservancy. Restroom facilities and potable water at Logan Pass will be available.

Visitors will discover a snow-covered landscape at Logan Pass. Winter weather may be encountered with cold temperatures and wind, as well as icy conditions. Be aware of snow walls along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and hazardous snow bridges near the Big Drift. Standing or walking on snow along the road is strongly discouraged.

Trails near Logan Pass are covered in snow and visitors should exercise caution when hiking. Be aware of unseen holes in the snow and snow bridges that exist. Avoid crossing steep, snow-covered slopes where a fall could be disastrous. Visitors should have the appropriate equipment and skills if hiking on snow. The Highline Trail from Logan Pass is closed due to snow conditions. Travel from Hidden Lake Overlook to Hidden Lake is not recommended due to snow conditions. Current status of park trails can be found here.

The park’s shuttle system is anticipated to begin normal operations on the west side beginning today. Limited east-side shuttle service will also begin today. East-side shuttle stop locations will vary throughout the summer due to road rehabilitation activities. Visitors are encouraged to contact the St. Mary Visitor Center for more information about east-side shuttle schedules.

The transit system provides two-way service along Going-to-the-Sun Road between the Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center. Shuttles operate seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last shuttle departs from Logan Pass at 7 p.m. On the west side of the park from the Apgar Visitor Center to Logan Pass, buses run every 30 minutes and every 40 to 60 minutes on the east side. Three west-side express shuttles are available from 7 a.m. to approximately 7:40 a.m., offering direct travel from the Apgar Visitor Center to Logan Pass without intermediate stops. The park’s shuttle system is scheduled to operate through September 7.

Since Thursday, June 26 over 5,000 people have people have utilized the park’s optional, free shuttle system. Due to the popularity of the system, shuttles fill up quickly. Seating capacity is limited and visitors may experience wait times longer than 30 minutes. The shuttle system is intended to minimize impacts on visitors throughout the multi–year rehabilitation project on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. For more information on the shuttle system, please click here.

Rehabilitation work on the Going-to-the-Sun Road will continue this year with activity on the east side occurring between Siyeh Bend and Rising Sun. Use caution when traveling this 9-mile stretch of roadway as it will have a rough, gravel surface this summer and fall. Visitors can expect 30-minute maximum traffic delays on the east side of the park this summer and no delays on the west side. No construction delays are anticipated during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Sun Point is closed to all visitor traffic including picnicking, transit, restroom use, and hiking due to road construction activity.

The opening of Logan Pass will mark the end of current hiker-biker access. Bicyclists are reminded that bicycle restrictions are in effect on the Going-to-the-Sun-Road due to traffic congestion now through Labor Day, September 1. Bicycles are prohibited between Apgar Campground and Sprague Creek Campground from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In addition, bicycles are prohibited eastbound (uphill) between Logan Creek and Logan Pass from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information on bicycle restrictions and average bicycle times, check the park newspaper available at park entrance stations or online.

Large crowds are anticipated at Glacier National Park for the upcoming holiday weekend. Visitors are encouraged to experience and enjoy their national park, but be prepared for outdoor activities and patient with possible extended wait times for visitor services. For current information on park roads, weather conditions, and visitor services visit Glacier National Park’s website or call park headquarters at 406-888-7800.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Late Day Rescues Conducted for One Climber & One Hiker

Two different backcountry users—one a climber with serious injuries and the other a hiker suffering physical exhaustion—required separate, late-day rescue missions involving multiple rangers and helicopters on Sunday, June 29, at Grand Teton National Park. At the time the two mountain rescues got underway, rangers were also summoned by Teton County Search and Rescue to assist with a search for missing boaters from an accident on the Gros Ventre River, just east of the park's boundary.

Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received the first emergency call at 5:55 p.m. from two hiking partners of Xabier Aguirregoicoa, 39, of Spain. Aguirregoicoa's companions reported that their friend was exhausted and physically unable to either continue walking out of Granite Canyon (a distance of 12 miles), or hike back upslope to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram from where their backcountry trip began. In the first couple of miles, the hiking party missed the snow-covered trail and instead, dropped down a steep slope, with intermittent snow and loose rock, into a rugged area of large boulders and talus. Aguirregoicoa's partners retraced their route over hard and crusty snow to reach the top of Rendezvous Mountain and make their call for help. They also provided GPS coordinates for Aguirregoicoa's location, which greatly facilitated the rescue operation.

A Teton Interagency contract helicopter was dispatched to an area just below Cardiac Ridge in upper Granite Canyon with two park rangers on board. Despite erratic winds, the ship was able to land on a patch of snow near Aguirregoicoa. He was assisted across the snowfield to the waiting helicopter for an evacuation to Lupine Meadows Rescue Cache where rangers assessed his overall health and released him. Aguirregoicoa was not adequately prepared for the snowy conditions that persist in this area of Granite Canyon. He wore just light hiking shoes and carried only hiking poles, where conditions demanded sturdy hiking boots and ice axes for safer travel.

Shortly after the first alert, Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received a second emergency call at 6:30 p.m., reporting an injured climber on the east flank of the 11,618-foot Disappointment Peak. Angela Lazarte, 27, of Jackson, Wyoming and her partner were climbing in the Lake Ledges area above Amphitheater Lake when she slipped and tumbled over snow and rock before coming to rest in a snow moat near the base of the cliff. A second Teton Interagency contract helicopter flew six park rangers to provide emergency medical care and make preparations for a short-haul evacuation. To assist with the rescue, four additional rangers hiked to Amphitheater Lake (9,750 feet) from the Lupine Meadows Rescue Cache. High winds ultimately prevented the helicopter from completing a short-haul evacuation. Instead, rangers resorted to placing Lazarte into a rescue litter and lowering her over steep, snow-covered slopes until they could carry her via wheeled litter—a distance of five miles—over an intermittent snow-covered and rocky trail to the Lupine Meadows trailhead. The rescue operation took over 10 hours to conduct; it did not conclude until 5 a.m. Monday, June 30. A park ambulance met the rescuers and transported Lazarte to St. John's Medical Center in Jackson for further care. Lazarte was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, which may have prevented a head injury.

Because the two Teton Interagency contract helicopters were involved in the Teton Range rescue missions, two Grand Teton rangers assisted Teton County Search and Rescue personnel with a ground-based search and rescue for a missing boater from the Gros Ventre River accident reported around 6:15 p.m. That rescue mission was somewhat resolved with all boaters accounted for at 9:45 p.m. on Sunday evening; however the evacuation of one stranded and injured boater required additional time.

Earlier in the day, five park rangers also conducted a wheeled litter evacuation of a 64 year-old man who suffered a rib injury after he fell from a horse while riding on the Colter Bay area trail system.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park