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Wild North: Monthly Dispatch

Montana's Favorite Season is Here!

Woman standing near cliff next to lake in forested woods.

Welcome to Montana’s wild side. Wild North is excited to announce and present our first monthly newsletter! Each month, we’ll bring you timely updates on conditions, important Glacier National Park news, highlights from recent and upcoming trips, and expert tips to help you make the most of your time outdoors.

Subscribe to get the next newsletter right in your inbox!

Convergent lady beetles on a rocky alpine area


Nature Moment

Convergent lady beetles (ladybugs are beetles!) were found in masses at the summit of a snow-free peak in Glacier in May. These gatherings are called "aggregations" by scientists. Grizzly bears will seek and consume these lady beetles in large quantities!

Seasonal Pro Tip - Hiking on snow

While lower elevations are currently snow-free, upper elevations and certain aspects still have a lot of snow. 3 tips for managing this hazard:

  • Snow surfaces are often firmer in the morning from lower temperatures - so traction cleats that attach to the bottom of your shoes are great for flat terrain or boot crampons are recommend in steeper terrain.

  • When planning a hike with snow, account for the extra time and effort post-holing (when your leg sinks into the snow while walking) adds when the snow is softer.

  • Gaiters (worn around your ankle/lower leg) are great for keeping snow out of your boots and managing muddy conditions.

Snow in the woods with mountains in the background

CHECK OUT A FEW TRIP OFFERINGS FOR 2025:

Two friends standing behind an electric bike with snow big mountains in the background.
E-Biking
Dark brown grizzly bear feeding on a rock and bushy slope.
Sightseeing Tours
Line of female backpackers on a trail
Backpacking

Logan's Pass Webcam

Glacier National Park Dispatch

  • Going to The Sun Road is on track to open this month - with the road cleared of snow, installing barriers and rock removal are still required.

  • Timed Vehicle Reservations start at the West Glacier and North Fork entrances on June 13th. You can enter the park before 7am or after 3pm without a vehicle reservation.

  • Starting July 1st personal vehicle access into Many Glacier is not allowed without a lodge or boat reservation or private shuttle.


Local Conditions Update [as of June 10th]:

  • Average Snow level: Sheltered and northerly aspects have snowline at about 6,000', and other aspects (E, S, W) have snowline at about 6600'. If traveling above this, be prepared for snow!

  • Flathead River Flow (at Columbia Falls): 12,500 cfs

  • Current Snowpack - Flathead: 59% of median



 
 
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