High Country Snow....

The following is a quote from the wonderful folks in the Glacier National Park backcountry office:

Above average snowpack, a cold spring, and several severe spring snow storms (Say that three times fast) have left the higher elevations of Glacier under deep snow and are presenting challenges to backcountry travel, especially over the high passes.

Our melt-out is about two to three weeks behind normal so many of our backcountry campgrounds are not opening on time either. Sustained summer heat has finally allowed 24 hour snowmelt and our hope is that this will facilitate more backcountry campground openings in the near future.

Along with this melt-out however, comes high water hazards and possible undercut snowbanks. High angle snow slopes finish out the troika of risks associated with Glacier's current backcountry conditions.

During the next few weeks, backpackers wishing to venture into the high country should be familiar with swift water crossing techniques and well versed in the use of an ice ax and crampons and possess the ability to self-arrest.

There are few offices in the park that I would put a lot of faith and trust in, but the crew at the back country office is one of them. This group of individuals are lead by the charming Brian McKeon. Actually everyone knows that really the office is ran by mother Kim and Grandma Linda, but they like to let Brian think he is in charge. But then that is a story for another day....

Temperatures have been dropping into the 40's most night here in West Glacier and in the high country. Flat top Mountain weather station shows the same trend.

It seems possible for some of the high country snows to still be around when the snows begin again in a couple months. Only time will tell.


Thats my two cents worth for today......Have a great day..