If you live close to Glacier National Park, or are thinking of heading there this winter, consider joining a snowshoe or cross-country ski outing sponsored by the Glacier National Park Fund.

The purpose of each outing is to get some exercise and to take-in the beauty of Glacier National Park in the winter. There will be no formal interpretation, so if you are interested in learning about Glacier in winter, check out the park’s free ranger-led weekend programs or the Glacier Institute’s in depth courses. 

All Glacier Fund winter outings are open to the public and will meet at the Glacier Fund office in Columbia Falls, Montana, just west of the park.  Please note that park entrance fees are required for all participants.

Outings are scheduled for:

* February 10th – snowshoeing

* February 24th – snowshoeing

* March 9th – cross-country skiing

* March 16th – snowshoeing

* March 23rd – cross-country skiing

All outings are weather dependent, will be on the west side of the park, and will last about 3 hours, including breaks. The time-frame and distance will depend on the group, how everyone is feeling that day, and the weather conditions.  Call the Fund at 406-892-3250 for more information and to sign up for any of these outings.  The full schedule and details are posted on the Fund's website.

If you plan to attend, be sure to be prepared for wintry weather. Winter weather conditions in Glacier are often unpredictable and can change rapidly so participants need to be prepared for any type of weather.  It is suggested that you bring a backpack, your own water and sack lunch/snacks, winter hat, gloves, waterproof pants, sturdy waterproof boots, snowshoes or cross-country skis, poles, something waterproof to sit on while taking breaks, a camera and whatever else you might need.

Traveler footnote: The Glacier National Park Fund is the non-profit fund raising partner for Glacier National Park. Their mission is to preserve and protect the natural beauty and heritage of the Park for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. For further information about the Fund, call 406-892-3250 or go visit the fund's website.