Discover Glacier Park in winter with moonlight ski outings
Published: January 26, 2010
Ever wonder what’s going on during cold winter nights when the world seems still? On Saturday evenings, Jan. 30 and Feb. 27, the public is invited to join a free, four-mile, ranger-led cross-country ski excursion to discover how Glacier National Park’s winter residents survive these harsh months.
These guided outings are suitable for intermediate-level skiers of all ages.
Moonlit cross-country ski trips will be offered on the Saturday evenings nearest the full moon in January and February (weather and snow conditions permitting). Excursions begin at 7 p.m.
All participants must bring their own cross-country ski equipment as well as extra layers of clothing, a headlamp and water. Skis are available for rent at retail locations in gateway communities outside of the park.
The January 30 moonlit tour begins at the Camas Road gate (a three-minute drive from the Apgar Visitor Center). The Feb. 27 moonlit ski will begins at a location to be announced. There is no group-size limit and no reservations are taken.
Of course, the park many daytime options for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing; check home.nps.gov/applications/glac/ski/xcski.htm for maps.
Park visitors are reminded that although these winter activities are free, valid park entry is required, even when entrance stations are not staffed. Upon entering the park, visitors are directed to follow posted instructions to pay entrance fees at self-pay stations.
Glacier’s winter entrance fee is $15 for vehicles and $10 for single entrants (hiker/bicyclist/motorcyclist) for a seven-day pass. Annual park passes, valid for unlimited visits to Glacier National Park for 12 months from the date of purchase, are also available for $35 and can be purchased on weekdays at park headquarters and on weekends from entrance stations when staffed.
These “Winter Nights” moonlit ski outings are the first of many special programs that will be offered by Glacier National Park during 2010 as the park celebrates its centennial.
For more information or to confirm each moonlit cross-country ski program, call the Apgar Visitor Center at 406-888-7939 between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekends.
