Current Conditions

 

Snow came early this year. The peaks are already covered in a blanket of white. Many of the lower elevations have snow-cover as well. Check the weather and plan ahead before visiting.

NPS

 

Larch trees at peak color along the shores of Bowman Lake

NPS PHOTO

Glacier in the fall is a special place. The seasonal change of colors on the landscape starts in mid-September and lasts through the end of October. Color comes in two wave. The first trees to turn are the aspens and cottonwoods. The lower slopes on the east side of the park can be a blaze with bright yellow aspen, tipped in orange. The cottonwoods line the streams with yellows and browns. As they start to fade the larch trees begin their dramatic show. Larch are a deciduous conifer and can blanket a hillside is vibrant color. Look for particularly good displays of yellow-orange larch along the Middle Fork of the Flathead River and all along the west side of the park. Peak larch color is typically in mid-October.

 

Road Status and Plowing Information

• Current Road Status
• Current Plow Locations on the Going-to-the-Sun Road (inactive until Spring plowing begins)
• Webcams to see Current Conditions
• Trail Status Reports

 

St. Mary Campground

NPS PHOTO

Camping

Check the Camping Status page for up-to-date information, like status and past fill times. More information on the Camping page.

 

Wild Goose Island Overlook

NPS PHOTO

Weather

Weather is always unpredictable but especially so in Glacier. Cold snowy days and warm sunny days are both common any time of year. Temperatures vary with time of day and elevation, so be prepared with layers of clothing.

National Weather Service Recreation Safety Forecast for Glacier National Park
(a clickable map of Glacier National Park weather)

Glacier National Park Forecast
(a text version of the weather forecast for Glacier)

Visit our Weather page for more information.

 

Observe wildlife from a safe distance. These people are too close to this goat.

NPS PHOTO

Wildlife

Many animals in Glacier are active year-round. Stay vigilant as you drive park roads. All park visitors should carry bear spray in a readily accessible location, should know how to use it, and should remember required safe wildlife viewing distances. If an animal reacts to your presence you are too close. Please remain at least 100 yards away from bears or wolves, and no closer than 25 yards of any other wildlife.