Posts
Friday, July 4, 2008
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Logan Pass Opens for season
The Logan Pass section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road opened for the season on the morning of July 2. The road is now fully open. There is still considerable snow at the top of the pass and around the Logan Pass Visitor Center. Please try to remain on the plowed walkways and off of newly emerging vegetation as the snow recedes.
Going to the Sun Road and Logan Pass expected to open today
The Going-to-the-Sun Road should open to through traffic for the entire 52 mile length pending an inspection of the road this morning.A weather system moved in to the area last night, which could have caused some damage to the already soaked hillsides. Expect to encounter very narrow gravel roads with lots of water. The over three miles of single lane traffic is not for the weak of heart. Construction projects are still ongoing for the remainder of the summer and you should plan for lengthy delays.
This will be the latest opening of Sun Road over Logan Pass since 1943, when the pass was opened July 10 because of reduced staffing during World War II.
You can read more about this on the Daily Inter Lake"s online morning edition,
Monday, June 30, 2008
Going to the Sun Road 2008....Big Bend
Heavens Peak
The park officially opened the Going to the Sun Road to the Big Bend closure last Saturday. I decided to go check it out the 29 mile drive for myself so I could tell you first hand what I found. Please keep in mind to focus on the beauty of what is around you at all times. That said here we go....
Leaving West Glacier and heading up along Lake McDonald is always a wonderful drive with the lake having high water levels. Where there have been beaches in the past are now covered with water.....so be prepared to get wet if you intend to walk on the lake shore.
The road surface appeared for some reason to have a lot more dips and bumps than I remember from last year. Upon passing the turnoffs to the Lodge. it became quickly apparent that there were horses around. I am not sure why, but it was VERY aromatic. We quickly proceeded on up the road, through Avalanche where there was also construction going on. Upon arriving in moose country we came across a ranger standing in the background observing a large crowd of visitors. Sure enough the resident moose was in the water on the right side of the road having a snack. Please use common sense in these situations, these are WILD animals.
The road got rough as we approached the Logan pit area. It appears that they are using this as a staging area for the construction on the road. The heavy trucks are taking their toll on an old road.
There are new pit toilets being built along the way in the Logan creek area, however they were not available when we were there. There were portipotties along the side of the road. Once we started the climb out of the valley the condition of the road did not improve. There is an abundance of water moving down the chutes and in McDonald Creek. It is obvious that all the water is effecting the road. Arriving at the West tunnel we encountered water cascading down and once we splashed through the tunnel come upon a gravel surface. It actually was fairly smooth, however loose gravel and driving in the mountains are a fun combination. All of the parking area at the Loop is being used for more staging of large rocks. Until this is finished I can see huge bottlenecks forming. You shouldn't plan on finding any parking there anytime soon.
The next three mile or so section of the road is a real experience to say the least. If you have anyone in your vehicle that doesn't care for open heights I would not proceed past the loop. The construction continues and for a ways there is nothing between the outside lane and freefall. I am not sure if they just haven't gotten the barriers in place or if someone in their great wisdom decided not to. That was an enlighting experience and I thought I has seen it all. Shortly after we came across a flagger and single lane traffic.
We now had to sit and wait for the pilot truck to come back and guide us through the single lane. There was no construction going on anywhere that I could see. At least here they had placed barriers on the outside edge of the inside lane, just visible signs that something was going on. It appeared the complete outside lane was gone and it felt to me as we were just hanging onto a very narrow ledge with a loose gravel surface. It was not a pleasant experience! We waited for 10-15 minutes for out turn to proceed. The rest of the ride to Big Bend was under the same conditions.
Bird Woman Falls
The views of Bird Woman Falls were breathtaking. It seemed like you could reach out and touch it. Actually I took so many photos of the falls that I didnt get any of the road condition which I wanted to forget about. The short distance on to Big Bend was uneventful, with having to pass along the Weeping Walls. At this point in the season it should have been called the crying falls.From all the talk of heavy snow I was disappointed when I got to Big Bend. The amount of snow left was very small compared to years past. After walking around taking in the sights and taking in the very fresh cool fresh aire realized that I now had to go back through that same route. Only this time as the driver I was right at the edge.
Big Bend
There was not much low snow lying around. However the views were spectacular with mountain goats on the hillsides. Lots of water running and still lots of snow higher up.
Weeping Wall
As you can see there is a lot of water coming out of the weeping wall and onto the roadway.
Black Bear
Upon making it back to lower elevations we encountered another traffic jam. it is so amazing to me that folks come to the wild and loose all aspects of common sense. There were folks standing literally 6 feet from this adult black bear, totally unaware of what they were placing themselves and the bear in. Please enjoy the wildlife, but be smart.
Please keep in mind to focus on the beauty of what is around you at all times and try not to think about the construction zones.
We did safely make it back through the construction zone, however I will tell you that when I go back up to see and document Logan Pass, it will be from the St Mary's side of the park. This is a section of the road I will not drive on again until it is completely finished.
Thats my two cents worth for today......Have a great day..
The park officially opened the Going to the Sun Road to the Big Bend closure last Saturday. I decided to go check it out the 29 mile drive for myself so I could tell you first hand what I found. Please keep in mind to focus on the beauty of what is around you at all times. That said here we go....
Leaving West Glacier and heading up along Lake McDonald is always a wonderful drive with the lake having high water levels. Where there have been beaches in the past are now covered with water.....so be prepared to get wet if you intend to walk on the lake shore.
The road surface appeared for some reason to have a lot more dips and bumps than I remember from last year. Upon passing the turnoffs to the Lodge. it became quickly apparent that there were horses around. I am not sure why, but it was VERY aromatic. We quickly proceeded on up the road, through Avalanche where there was also construction going on. Upon arriving in moose country we came across a ranger standing in the background observing a large crowd of visitors. Sure enough the resident moose was in the water on the right side of the road having a snack. Please use common sense in these situations, these are WILD animals.
The road got rough as we approached the Logan pit area. It appears that they are using this as a staging area for the construction on the road. The heavy trucks are taking their toll on an old road.
There are new pit toilets being built along the way in the Logan creek area, however they were not available when we were there. There were portipotties along the side of the road. Once we started the climb out of the valley the condition of the road did not improve. There is an abundance of water moving down the chutes and in McDonald Creek. It is obvious that all the water is effecting the road. Arriving at the West tunnel we encountered water cascading down and once we splashed through the tunnel come upon a gravel surface. It actually was fairly smooth, however loose gravel and driving in the mountains are a fun combination. All of the parking area at the Loop is being used for more staging of large rocks. Until this is finished I can see huge bottlenecks forming. You shouldn't plan on finding any parking there anytime soon.
The next three mile or so section of the road is a real experience to say the least. If you have anyone in your vehicle that doesn't care for open heights I would not proceed past the loop. The construction continues and for a ways there is nothing between the outside lane and freefall. I am not sure if they just haven't gotten the barriers in place or if someone in their great wisdom decided not to. That was an enlighting experience and I thought I has seen it all. Shortly after we came across a flagger and single lane traffic.
We now had to sit and wait for the pilot truck to come back and guide us through the single lane. There was no construction going on anywhere that I could see. At least here they had placed barriers on the outside edge of the inside lane, just visible signs that something was going on. It appeared the complete outside lane was gone and it felt to me as we were just hanging onto a very narrow ledge with a loose gravel surface. It was not a pleasant experience! We waited for 10-15 minutes for out turn to proceed. The rest of the ride to Big Bend was under the same conditions.Bird Woman Falls
The views of Bird Woman Falls were breathtaking. It seemed like you could reach out and touch it. Actually I took so many photos of the falls that I didnt get any of the road condition which I wanted to forget about. The short distance on to Big Bend was uneventful, with having to pass along the Weeping Walls. At this point in the season it should have been called the crying falls.From all the talk of heavy snow I was disappointed when I got to Big Bend. The amount of snow left was very small compared to years past. After walking around taking in the sights and taking in the very fresh cool fresh aire realized that I now had to go back through that same route. Only this time as the driver I was right at the edge.Big Bend
There was not much low snow lying around. However the views were spectacular with mountain goats on the hillsides. Lots of water running and still lots of snow higher up.Weeping Wall
As you can see there is a lot of water coming out of the weeping wall and onto the roadway.Black Bear
Upon making it back to lower elevations we encountered another traffic jam. it is so amazing to me that folks come to the wild and loose all aspects of common sense. There were folks standing literally 6 feet from this adult black bear, totally unaware of what they were placing themselves and the bear in. Please enjoy the wildlife, but be smart.Please keep in mind to focus on the beauty of what is around you at all times and try not to think about the construction zones.
We did safely make it back through the construction zone, however I will tell you that when I go back up to see and document Logan Pass, it will be from the St Mary's side of the park. This is a section of the road I will not drive on again until it is completely finished.
Thats my two cents worth for today......Have a great day..
Friday, June 27, 2008
Going to the Sun Road 2008 opening to Big Bend...
Officials at Glacier National Park have just announced that the Going-to-the-Sun Road is expected to open to Big Bend, a distance of 29 miles from the West entrance by noon on Saturday, June 28. On the east side, you can travel approximately 13 miles from St. Mary to Jackson Glacier Overlook.
Access into the alpine section from the west entrance will only be available from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. Outside these hours, the road will close at Avalanche.
Be prepared for a wonderful day. For current weather conditions go here.
For current webcam shots go here
These photos taken minutes ago via park webcams in the West Glacier area.
Access into the alpine section from the west entrance will only be available from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. Outside these hours, the road will close at Avalanche.
Be prepared for a wonderful day. For current weather conditions go here.
For current webcam shots go here
These photos taken minutes ago via park webcams in the West Glacier area.
Going to the Sun Road opening 2008 to Big Bend...
According to the local news source The Daily Inter Lake the park supposely will soon open the road to Big Bend, however, the official Glacier National Park road status page still shows the road closed at Avalanche.
We will see what the rest of the day brings here to Northwest Montana and the spectacular Glacier National Park.
These photos show the road crew working toward and on the "Big Drift".
Unless we have a very "hot and wet" summer it appears there could be snow still on the ground when winter comes upon us again in the fall. This is good news for the young at heart who like to take part in the awesome spring skiing at Logan Pass. Of course that is, if and when they will be able to get there.
Snow depths especially in shaded areas is significant, resulting in lots of runoff. Remember that the number one danger and killer in the park is the fast moving very cold water. Use caution and common sense at all times.
Today just happens to be the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Going to the Sun Road. Festivities are taking place through out the area. Please join in and help celebrate with us.
When approaching the park be aware the traffic lines have began to build at the West Entrance, so bear with the crews working the incoming traffic. The entrance fee this year is $25.00 unless you have one of the approved park passes. If you are a senior citizen take advantage of purchasing a "Golden Age" lifetime pass for $10.00. Be prepared to have a wait to enter the park. Have patience with them as they are doing a thankless job. Take time to let them know how you feel. As always it is all worth it in the long run. If you have never been to the park, you are in for a real treat, regardless how far you can go in. The high moisture received this winter, has spectacular waterfalls, wildflowers and green everywhere. Be ready for wildlife sighting anywhere, and please remember they are wildlife and therefore are not use to people. Use common sense at all times in all cases.
Construction is still ongoing on the GTSR and there is a several mile stretch around the Loop where you will be driving on gravel surface.
Enjoy your trip to Glacier National Park and thank the powers to be that you have to pay over $4.00 a gallon for gas. If you have any comments or questions please ask.....
Thats my two cents worth for today......Have a great day...
We will see what the rest of the day brings here to Northwest Montana and the spectacular Glacier National Park.
These photos show the road crew working toward and on the "Big Drift".
Unless we have a very "hot and wet" summer it appears there could be snow still on the ground when winter comes upon us again in the fall. This is good news for the young at heart who like to take part in the awesome spring skiing at Logan Pass. Of course that is, if and when they will be able to get there.
Snow depths especially in shaded areas is significant, resulting in lots of runoff. Remember that the number one danger and killer in the park is the fast moving very cold water. Use caution and common sense at all times.
Today just happens to be the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Going to the Sun Road. Festivities are taking place through out the area. Please join in and help celebrate with us.
When approaching the park be aware the traffic lines have began to build at the West Entrance, so bear with the crews working the incoming traffic. The entrance fee this year is $25.00 unless you have one of the approved park passes. If you are a senior citizen take advantage of purchasing a "Golden Age" lifetime pass for $10.00. Be prepared to have a wait to enter the park. Have patience with them as they are doing a thankless job. Take time to let them know how you feel. As always it is all worth it in the long run. If you have never been to the park, you are in for a real treat, regardless how far you can go in. The high moisture received this winter, has spectacular waterfalls, wildflowers and green everywhere. Be ready for wildlife sighting anywhere, and please remember they are wildlife and therefore are not use to people. Use common sense at all times in all cases.
Construction is still ongoing on the GTSR and there is a several mile stretch around the Loop where you will be driving on gravel surface.
Enjoy your trip to Glacier National Park and thank the powers to be that you have to pay over $4.00 a gallon for gas. If you have any comments or questions please ask.....
Thats my two cents worth for today......Have a great day...
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Going to the Sun Road opening 2008 continued.....(GTSR)
The News article from one of the local news sources might lead you to believe that the GTSR will open soon. Sounds like another one of those dreams that keeps coming back and no one can figure out the real story or why. They just keep at it until it feels right,they get it right, or mother nature does her thing. Which ever comes first.....Bottom line is politics always tries to control the opening of the road. No expense or danger is too much. However no one has figured out who or what is really in control here. They may get the road open like they want, however with all the snow and moisture that we have received, the rocks and dirt will move and take back what is really theirs.
Doesn't this quote from Jim Foster, deputy chief of facilities sound like a typical federal employee?
"The budget is broke," said Foster. "But we're still going to get the road plowed."and we wonder why our budget and economy is in such sad shape. Management priorities change with the whims and direction of who ever has the floor at the time. Perhaps things will change with the arrival of the new superintendent, however being as it is another end of the road for a career I wouldn't expect too much. Seems like Glacier has been a stepping stone for past and current leaders, either for loftier jobs or retirement. One would think someone would figure it out and change the cycle.
As far as the news article goes, All I can say is if Chris writes the story he is either really anxious to drive over the summit of Logan Pass and go hike and take pictures in one of his many secret places, or some of the powers to be have him snowed under...kind of like hmmmmm...Logan Pass, Highline Trail or most all of the other high country passes.
Actually of all the reporters in the valley Chris is the one I would believe the first!! and if The Hungry Horse News prints it, it has to be true!!!
It could be a very short summer for backcountry hikers, unless we get some serious heat and rain. Who ever believes global warming should try to hike the high country in Glacier right now. Or better yet call the Backcountry desk (406-888-7857) and ask them the status of the high country passes, trails and campsites and see what they say.
Thats my two cents worth for today......Have a great day...
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