Glacier National Park is one of the largest parks in the United States, with over 700 miles of trails to choose from stretched out within the 1 million-plus acres that make up the boundaries of the Montana park. While certain preparations and precautions need to be made for camping in certain sections of the park, the entire landscape is available for backpacking and camping year-round.
Reservations and Planning
Glacier National Park sees roughly 2 million visitors annually. Planning ahead can be a necessity for certain sections of the park. Not only are certain trails and sections of the park closed during certain times of the year based upon weather and other conditions, but certain campgrounds have limited space and require a permit to be used. Group campsites can be reserved 12 months in advance, while others are only available six months in advance, depending where you plan on going. Permit applications begin processing on April 15 of each year. Walk-in sites are first-come, first-served.
Backpacking and Camping
When backpacking through Glacier National Park, it is important to understand when and where you can pitch a tent to camp. From May 1 through Nov. 1 backcountry campers are required by park law to only use designated campgrounds. Certain areas of the park have fire and camping restrictions during parts of the year, and you are not allowed to wash anything in the lakes and streams. Designated campgrounds have their specific rules and regulations clearly posted depending on the season, so be sure to read the signs before heading out and setting up camp.
Weather and Trail Conditions
While Glacier National Park is a backpacker's paradise, weather and trail conditions can ruin even the hardiest backpacker's fantasy trip. This is especially true for backcountry backpacking where you will be spending several days working your way through the trails. The park rangers and trail crews post updated information on the park website every morning from May through November to keep visitors up-to-speed on the latest hiking conditions. If you do not have access to the Internet, you can ask a ranger at one of the ranger posts for the latest weather and trail conditions.
Rules, Regulations and Fees
Just like any other state or national park, Glacier National Park has a variety of rules and regulations to ensure not only the safety of backpackers, but also to ensure the preservation of the environment. In addition to the rules and regulations, there are also fees associated with using certain park amenities, such as campsites and buildings. For example, firearms are not allowed, pets must be kept on a leash under 6 feet and there are entrance fees. In the summer, foot travelers pay $12 while in the winter they pay $10, and if you bring a vehicle you pay $25 in the summer and $15 in the winter. Additional amenities cost extra depending on the services.
Backcountry Camping
Backpacking in the furthest recesses of Glacier National Park can potentially be dangerous. Before strapping on your backpack and boots and heading out into the wilderness, research the various sections of the park you plan on exploring. Knowing the types of wildlife you might come across, as well as the type of gear you need to take, is paramount to a successful and safe backpacking trip. Bears are certainly a possibility, and it is important to understand how to handle yourself in the farthest reaches of the park. Make plenty of noise when you walk. Always sleep at least 100 yards away from the area where you cook and store your food, keep all food in airtight containers, and use the designated food storage devices. Be sure to bring at least 25 feet of rope and a stuff sack for use with the food storage device, and never sleep in the same clothing you cook in.
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