Is it a good idea to go to go backpacking in Glacier National Park in late May?

Two friends and I are putting together a backpacking trip for late May. Since our other plans fell through, we're looking for some good alternatives.





We've all got a TON of camping experience (including plenty of cold weather trips and 15-32F nights). We've also got a decent amount of backpacking experience. We don't have a whole lot of back country mountain experience.





What back country trips are possible at Glacier NP in late May? Is it a good idea, or are the trails too dangerous this time of year? If we do go, do we need any special equipment. Snow shoes?

Is it a good idea to go to go backpacking in Glacier National Park in late May?
Late May is definitely not an ideal time for backpacking in Glacier. It's still pretty snowy. Trails can be hard to find, steep snow slopes would almost definitely have to be traversed. Unless you're comfortable snowshoeing and using an ice ax in case you fall, I wouldn't say it would be the most fun trip ever. It's a weird time when things are melting, and if snow is slushy than an ice ax really wouldn't help you much anyway. Alot of the backcountry campgrounds will still be snow covered as well.





Alot of the lower elevation areas (far east and far west sides of the park, like Apgar and St Mary) will be melted out by then, but the higher elevation parts (like Logan Pass) will definitely still be snowed in. The road that crosses the park, necessary to get from one side to another, is usually not open until early to mid June. Also, most of the better hikes go up high or cross mountain passes and will still be snow covered. Be advised as well that the weather is still very unpredictable this time of year, and it will definitely still get cold at night.





You'll get the benefit of snow capped mountains, gushing waterfalls, and no crowds- but you will also be severely limited in what you can see and do, both by car and on foot.





If you're planning a trip, I'd suggest waiting until at least mid to late June. Visitation starts really picking up for the summer around 4th of July weekend, but thats usually around the time that all the trails are completely melted out as well. If you're trying to plan a trip for this time of year, I'd suggest seeing some of the national parks in the more southern states, where you don't have snow to worry about and the oppressive heat hasn't quite set in yet.





Feel free to email me if you have any more questions.



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