Audio
Going-to-the-Sun Road: Gunsight Pass Trailhead
Transcript
[Narration] Ready for a backcountry experience? The Gunsight Pass Trailhead is the starting point for one of the best two night hikes in the park. This 18 mile hike has always been a great trip but in the past getting from the end point of the hike at Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side of the park back to your car over here has always been a hassle. Now that the new shuttle system is in place hikers have free transportation back to Gunsight Pass Trailhead to retrieve their car or an even better idea is to leave your car at the end point of the hike and take the shuttle to the beginning point here at Gunsight Pass. That way when your done with your hike and tired and dusty from the trail your car is there waiting for you. However you arrange it the hike from here to Lake McDonald Lodge provides a classic Glacier National Park experience. The trail winds in and out of dense forest for the first few miles to Gunsight Lake and continues up subalpine meadows to Gunsight Pass. Dramatic views of Gunsight Lake on one side and Lake Ellen Wilson on the other side are your reward as you stand the Continental Divide and enjoy the scenery. The trail then drops down to Lake Ellen Wilson before climbing Lincoln Pass over to Sperry Chalet and the Sperry Glacier.
Sperry Chalet is one of two remaining backcountry chalets still in operation today. From the chalet the trail drops steeply down to the McDonald Creek Valley below and ends across the road from Lake McDonald Lodge. Backcountry campers are required to obtain a permit prior to their trip. Stop at one of the permit offices or visitor centers and a ranger can give you guidance and assist in trip planning. Along this route backcountry campgrounds at Gunsight Lake, Lake Ellen Wilson and Sperry Chalet provide a range of choices for camping and the chalet provides overnight accommodations that include meals as well if you want to experience the backcountry with just a touch of rustic luxury. Reservations for the chalet is a must and reservations are recommended for backcountry campgrounds as well.
Description
This trailhead is a jumping off point for popular backcountry adventures. A "through hike" to Lake McDonald is made simpler by the shuttle system.
Duration
2 minutes, 9 seconds
Credit
Glacier National Park
Date Created
08/04/2015
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