Snow at Boulder Pass in GNP???

[Trevor Wilson]

I have a trip planned to Glacier National Park in two weeks and part of my itinerary includes Boulder Pass. On the NPS website it shows snow cover over 90% of the trail and that it won't be gone until mid-August. I was wondering if anyone has been in the area recently? If so, do you think an ice axe and crampons are necessary to hike safely? Any thoughts and advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Sam Haraldson]

I have two friends who were up there in early July. There was definitely snow but nothing that an athletic individual with a sturdy set of trekking poles couldn't handle. My friends took crampons and axes but judging from their photos I don't think they were really necessary.

The earliest I ever crossed Boulder Pass was the third week of June (2007) and although I crossed much snow and had my axe in hand I did not find that it was truly necessary.

My suggestion to you is to go for it. Boulder Pass is one of my favorite areas in Glacier and the scenery is hard to beat. Snow up there will limit the number of other people in the area as well, making for a less-traveled trail and more solitude for you and your group.

Here are a couple photos from my friend's trip a few weeks back for you to judge your expectations by.

[Trevor Wilson]

Thanks Sam. I appreciate the advice and pics. That definitely helps. I can't wait to get out there!

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