August 29, 2010 - Sunday

Change of seasons

If you have already visited us this summer you know what a wonderfully mild summer it has been. For those of you visiting in the next two weeks, that mild summer is turning into a cool and beautiful autumn. The weather becomes extremely unpredictable this time of year, so all hikers should be ready for any conditions. We are already seeing some rain and snow, so it is hard to tell what you will get during your visit.

Be sure to dress in layers. While hiking it is easy to overheat and work up a sweat even on cool days, be ready to shed or add clothing any time you stop, start, or change elevation. And always carry a waterproof layer with you; rain and snow can come unpredictably. Getting wet and cold is the fastest way to end your fun in the mountains and could even lead to dangerous hypothermia. Other items that can help keep your backcountry visit comfortable this time of year include a warm hat, gloves and long underwear.

The chalets are open for a couple more weeks of great hiking. Come prepared and we will see you in the high country.

Kevin

August 15, 2010 - Sunday

Life is good at Granite Park Chalet

We have been enjoying some fine hiking this summer. There is no longer any snow along the Highline trail and all the routes around Granite Park Chalet are ready for you to explore them.

We have been enjoying a summer of mild temperatures and some rain. There have been frequent afternoon and evening thundershowers this year. If you are new to hiking in Glacier, remember to come prepared for any conditions. The day may be sunny and beautiful when you start your hike in the morning, but it may not stay that way all day. Up in the mountains conditions could turn cold and rainy without any warning. Staying dry will be an important part of your adventure.

We still have a lot more hiking to do this summer and we can't wait for you to join us.

Happy trails.

Kevin

July 25, 2010 - Sunday

The latest report from the Highline Trail

There are still over 20 snow crossings along the Highline Trail between Logan Pass and Granite Park Chalet. It may take until mid August before this route is fully clear of snow. Many people are using this route, but snow makes hiking more difficult. Give your group extra time to make the hike and watch your step. If you wish to take the Highline Trail we recommend sturdy and waterproof footwear and trekking poles for balance and as a self arrest tool. In addition to the slippery surface, always watch out for places where water is running under the snow melting it from below. These snow bridges can collapse under you without warning.

For the experienced and prepared hiker, the Highline Trail is a great adventure. If you are new to hiking on snow, or are unsure of your snow crossing abilities, consider using the Loop Trail. It is clear all the way to Granite Park Chalet.

Be safe out there!

Kevin

July 9, 2010 - Friday

Highline Trail Update

We have received word from Glacier Park and they plan to open the Highline Trail today.

While the trail may be open, there is still lots of snow in the high country and the Highline Trail will be a difficult hike because of it. Expect 20% snow cover along the trail for the next week or so.

For those of you who are inexperienced with hiking on snow, we recommend waterproof boots with a heavy sole, and hiking poles for balance. Extra traction, gaiters and ice axes can also be a good idea. Don't forget to put on an extra layer of sunscreen too. Hiking on snow is a lot more work than dry trails, be ready to give this hike your full concentration and strength. If this sounds like more than you are ready for, the Loop Trail is still an excellent choice for getting to Granite Park Chalet.

If you have experience with hiking in snow, you already know the kind of adventure you are in for. Bring your ice axe, stay dry, watch your footing and have fun!

Be safe out there!

Kevin

June 30, 2010 - Wednesday

Granite Park Chalet is open

Granite Park Chalet is open for the 2010 season. We are really excited to be back in the mountains again and we are looking forward to your visit.

The snow is melting fast but it may be another week or two before the Highline Trail is safe to hike. Plan to use the Loop Trail until the snow melts out.

Meet the Granite Park Chalet crew. Hannah, Lars, Luke and Ryan are up at the chalet now and can help you with anything you need during your stay.

If you are lucky enough to be in the mountains,
you are lucky enough.

Kevin

June 25, 2010 - Friday

Granite Park Chalet snow report

Our opening crew has arrived at Granite Park Chalet and we have started the work of cleaning up and getting ready for your arrival.

Granite Park has lots of snow this year. Snow around the chalet is currently four to eight feet deep in places. The portion of the Highline trail visible from the chalet is 90% snow covered. We are expecting considerable snow melt in the upcoming weeks, but expect to find lingering snow fields possibly as late as July 20.

Granite Park Chalet will open as scheduled on June 29. For early season access plan to use the Loop Trail. Be ready for wet conditions; we recommend having waterproof hiking boots with a good sole. Accessories like gaiters and strap on traction can help keep you dry and stable. A pair of trekking poles or even a walking stick is useful when you are traversing snow. A spare pair of dry socks is also a good idea. If you can keep your feet warm and dry, visiting the backcountry when it has a blanket of snow is a spectacularly beautiful adventure. We are looking forward to sharing it with you.

See you in the mountains soon!

Kevin

June 21, 2010 - Monday

Summer office hours

We are switching to our summer office hours beginning today. We will be in the office full time until the chalets close in September.

Summer hours:
Every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the mountain time zone.

Thanks

Kevin

June 14, 2010 - Monday

Summer is near

Signs of spring are everywhere here in Glacier. The bears are coming out of hibernation, the wildflowers are starting to bloom, and the snow plows have reached Logan Pass.

The big questions for many people planning June and early July trips to the Park are "When will Going to the Sun road open?" And "When will the Highline Trail to Granite Park Chalet open?"

No one knows the answers to these questions yet. Trying to guess the whims of mother nature is an exercise in folly. But we can steer you toward the best information we have at hand.

The National Park Service website has the most current information about roads and trails.
Current road status.
Trail reports.
Once you are in the Park and away from the Internet, you may stop by any visitor center to get the latest trail and road reports.

We hope you have a safe and exciting vacation, and we are looking forward to hitting the trails with you soon.

Kevin

May 17, 2010 - Monday

Friendly reminder!

We begin applying a $10 administrative fee for reservation changes and cancellations starting June 1. If you have changes you would like to make to your reservation, the month of May is your last opportunity to do so without penalty.

Thanks

Kevin

May 10, 2010 - Monday

Happy Birthday Glacier National Park!

May 11 is the 100th anniversary of GNP's dedication as a National Park. Here at the backcountry chalets we want to shout out a hearty congratulations to the Park for a very successful first century, and a heartfelt thank you to all the people and organizations that have contributed to the Glacier legacy.

We are looking forward to an exciting summer here. If you want to find out if any special centennial events will be happening during your visit to Glacier, be sure to check out http://www.glaciercentennial.org/ and check the events calendar.

We will be out of the office for much of May 11 and 12. We will be in the park celebrating and eating birthday cake, so our office will be short staffed during the Glacier re-dedication event. If you have business to conduct with your reservation, please send an Email or try us again later in the week.

Thanks

Kevin

May 4, 2010 - Tuesday

Get something to eat!

Calling hungry hikers! Our retail menu for 2010 is now available.

Granite Park Chalet is happy to lighten your backpack and deliver the ingredients for your hearty backcountry dinner to our kitchen. It is a convenient way to take some worry out of your hike and some weight out of your backpack.

The food menu and more information about it are available here.

Happy Hiking!

Kevin