Mountain Safety
Glacier National Park is a wilderness environment, in one of the most rugged landscapes in the country: the Columbia Mountains. Many natural hazards exist, but the risk of personal injury can be minimized by taking reasonable precautions. Your safety is your personal responsibility. Caution and self-reliance are essential, along with a knowledge of natural hazards, experience in avoiding them and successfully dealing with them when they happen. Pick trips that reflect your level of ability.
Any wild animal can be dangerous. Even ground squirrels deserve distance and respect! They can bite and have been known to transmit disease. Humans are also dangerous to wildlife. Animals that are fed lose their fear of people and may end up being destroyed to protect human safety. Some animals may change their wild behavior patterns to maintain access to human foods, disrupting their relationships with each other and with their natural foods and environment.
Snow and cold temperatures can occur any month of the year. Sunburn can be a major problem at higher elevations. Because mountain weather can change very rapidly and unpredictably, you should carry sun screen, appropriate clothing and proper equipment at all times. Use sunglasses and sunscreen even when it is cold or cloudy. Ultraviolet radiation increases in intensity with altitude. The sun's reflection from snow or ice can damage your eyes.
Almost any slope, under the right circumstances, may release its snowy mantle in an avalanche. Even small avalanches can be deadly. Backcountry skiers, boarders and snowshoers must know how to recognize and travel in avalanche terrain. Each member of your party should carry a shovel, transceiver and probe, and know how to use them.
The Columbia Mountains climate is relatively mild, but it is often wet, even in winter. The most functional clothing for summer hiking or for winter activities is made from waterproof-breathable fabrics. Clothing that is windproof alone will not serve you if you are planning outdoor activities in the Columbia Mountains, and coated waterproof fabrics will usually be too warm. Dress in layers and keep in mind that here, it rains three days in five on average!
West Glacier, MT Weather
Currently Outside63F Sunny. Mild. |
