Ice Conditions on Lake McDonald Vary: Two Skiers Fell Through Ice This Weekend

Recent freezing temperatures have contributed to an increase of ice on Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, and a reminder for visitors to be very cautious around bodies of water in the winter.

This past weekend park rangers received a report that two visitors fell into Lake McDonald, but were able to rescue themselves from the icy waters. The report indicated that the visitors were cross-country skiing on the lake when the ice gave way. Much of their equipment was lost.

Glacier National Park Superintendent Jeff Mow said, “We encourage visitors to use extreme caution near the ice on Lake McDonald.” Mow said that the lake is not completely frozen over and conditions vary across the lake.

The lake surface ranges from open water to slush and areas of ice, often with all three conditions existing in close proximity. In areas of ice, there are often cracks and the ice may not be stable or thick enough to support recreational activity. Conditions on the lake are dynamic and change within a matter of hours. Mow said, “Lake McDonald is a beautiful lake with a spectacular vista in the winter, but please enjoy safely.”

While official records have not documented annual ice levels on Lake McDonald, the most recent year with the majority of the lake frozen over was in 2007. Weather conditions, specifically temperature and wind, are key factors in water bodies freezing over. Extended periods of below freezing temperatures are needed to form ice on the lake. Wind keeps water moving and circulating, keeping it from turning to ice. As weather conditions vary, so will the ice on the lake.

Lake McDonald is the largest lake in the park. It is approximately 10 miles long, 1- 1.5 miles wide and at its deepest point it is over 460 feet deep.

Glacier National Park Service maintains weather data in partnership with the National Weather Service, and has consistently recorded this information in West Glacier since 1950. Intermittent records were also maintained prior to this dating back to the 1920s. The all-time record cold temperature at the park in West Glacier since 1950 was December 2, 1958 at -36 degrees Fahrenheit. This winter’s lowest cold temperature to date was last week, February 6, with -22 degrees.

Visitors are encouraged to visit the park’s webcams via the park’s website for winter images. The Apgar Lookout and Lake McDonald webcams feature images of Lake McDonald.

For more information about Lake McDonald and visiting Glacier National Park, contact the park at 406-888-7800.



Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park

Canoe Capsized and Hiker Falls on Snowfield in Glacier NP

Glacier National Park Rangers responded to two serious incidents this past weekend involving an injured hiker and a capsized canoe.

On Friday, June 15, eight individuals were climbing Mount Sinopah near Two Medicine Lake on the east side of the park. At approximately 6 p.m. one of the hikers, a 21-year old female, fell on a snowfield and was unable to self arrest, or stop the fall. The individual slid on approximately 200 feet of snow and then slid through approximately 10 feet of cliff bands at the bottom of the snowfield. The hiker only had general day-hiking gear. Two of the individuals from the hiking group traveled approximately four miles to the Glacier Park Boat Company on Two Medicine Lake to report the incident. Park rangers responded and encountered the injured hiker and the rest of the hiking party at a trail junction below Mount Sinopah. Park rangers assessed the injuries and transported the injured hiker by boat to the Two Medicine Boat Dock where an ambulance was waiting. The hiker had minor injuries.

On Saturday afternoon, June 16, employees of the Glacier Park Boat Company reported a capsized canoe and two people in the water on Lake McDonald. The boat company employees rescued the individuals from the water and transported them to the Lake McDonald Lodge where rangers assessed their condition and transported the individuals to their vehicle. The rangers also retrieved the canoe and returned it to the individuals. The boaters were wearing life jackets.

Hikers and climbers visiting some of the higher elevations in the park should expect snow and ice, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. 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 also recommended to have extra clothing, appropriate maps, first-aid kit, water and food. Always communicate to someone your planned route of travel and your expected time of return.

Park visitors are also reminded to be prepared for cold, high and fast moving waters in the park during spring and early summer. Always wear a life jacket when boating, and use caution when crossing or stepping near bodies of water.


Jeff
Hiking in Glacier.com