Glacier Park, Flathead Valley Montana Mountain Safety

Home to the Columbia Mountains, Glacier National Park is filled with natural hazards and rough terrain. It is wise to take precautions to protect your safety.

Know Your Own Limitations
Caution is important wherever you go, but it is also a good idea to possess knowledge of natural hazards and to select trips that are appropriate for your level of ability.

Mountainous Terrain
Follow the trails carefully especially at higher elevations. Be aware of where you are stepping. Stay on designated trails.

Ice and Snow
Be careful around any expanse of snow. Pay attention at all times, as any slope has the potential to release snow in an avalanche. Small avalanches can cause harm too. Backcountry skiers, boarders, and snowshoers should understand how to behave in avalanche terrain. Everyone should carry a shovel, transceiver and probe, and know how to use all the equipment.

Hazards can also be hidden under the snow. There may be cavities under the snow that could give way when weight is place on top of them.

Wild Animals
Even ground squirrels should be treated with respect, as they can bite and may transmit disease. Too much human interaction can cause problems for wildlife as well. Do not feed the animals, as this causes them to lose their fear of you leading to encroachment on human territory.

Extreme Temperatures
Be prepared to deal with extreme temperatures. Snow and cold temperatures can occur any time of year. At higher elevations, sunburn can be a problem. Mountain weather changes on the fly, so you should carry sunscreen, the right clothing, and required equipment all the time. Use sunglasses and sunscreen even during cold or cloudy weather, as ultraviolet radiation becomes more intense with higher altitudes. In addition, the sun reflecting off snow or ice can cause eye damage.

The climate in the Columbia Mountains is quite mild, but very wet, even in winter. The best clothing for summer hiking or winter activities is made from waterproof-breathable fabrics. Windproof clothing is not enough if you plan to enjoy the great outdoors in the Columbia Mountains. Dress in layers and be prepared for lots of rain!