Best lenses for hiking in Glacier?

You might well get close to some animals, but I'd plan for opportunities for more distant wildlife. You're likely to see distant grizzlies you won't want to approach, and animals like goats in places where you cannot approach even if you want to.

I've seen elk, goats, grizzlies, bighorns and deer in Glacier, and the scenery is spectacular. You should get some really good photos.

That's just the type of info I was looking for. I was beginning to get the impression the grizzlies would be walking right next to me! Seeing them from afar will be comforting. I guess a 100-400 zoom would do the trick? Thanks

adam

On a full frame the 24 is a must have in Glacier for landscapes with a prominent object in the foreground supported by background vistas. As for wildlife 24-105 mainly for goats, a little to close for sheep though I do recall being about 60' away from two bighorns smashing it up once and was surprised at what 150mm allowed me to get despite the adrenaline rush. Small animals such as marmots can be had with the 70-200. Bears if you are under 400mm you're too close. I live and work within 45 mins. of West Glacier for three decades, if you need anything give me a call.

Gary

Love my 6d but it's not the best wildlife camera when needing distance. Use your 70-200 – rent a TC x1.4 III extender – the Mark III has excellent IQ and rent a 60d or 7d, or the new 70d if it's available in time or save weight with the SL1. Use you 6d for landscape. jmo

"Bears if you are under 400mm you're too close."

You know that you have a long enough lens when you look through it and all you see is fur.

I was there a few weeks ago. My 100-400mm lens was perfect for trail encounters with wildlife, but I carried a shorter lens for scenery. A longer lens was perfect for shooting from the road. There were times when the wildlife was a mile away.

–B.G.–