Glacier National Park

Posted in North America | April 14, 2010 | Comment Now

Glacier National Park is located in the state of Montana in the USA, bordering the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia of neighbouring Canada. The park is spread over an area of 4,047 square kilometres and has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Glacier National Park along with adjoining Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada is known as Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. The two togther were designated as the world’s first International Peace Park in 1932 and as Biosphere Reserves in 1976.

Geography:

Glacier National Park features two mountain ranges besides over 130 named lakes and a diverse ecosystem. The rocks in the park are sedimentary in nature.

Climate:

The western part of the park receives maximum rainfall while the eastern side is sunny. Temperature can reach 30 degrees Celsius during summer. Snowfall can occur during any part of the year. It is always advisable to carry rain gear.

Flora:

The park region is mainly covered by Coniferous forest, although the same forest appears different on the eastern and western sides. Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, limber pine and western larch are some commonly found trees here.

Fauna:

Mountain goats, pine martens, grizzly bears and Canadian lynx are some of the animal species found in Glacier National Park.

Fish:

The park waters are inhabited about 23 species of fish including bull trout.

Avifauna:

Waterfowls and bald eagles are some of the bird species found in the park.

Reaching Glacier National Park:

By air:
Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell, Montana is the nearest airport (40 km from West Glacier). Car and shuttle service are available at the airport. Missoula at Montana is another option for air travelers to reach the park.
By road:
I-90 freeway, US Hwy 93 north, US Hwy 2 east, US Hwy 95, freeway I-15 North are some of the linking roads to the park.
By rail:
Amtrak’s Empire Builder train service is another alternative to reach the park. West Glacier Park Station, East Glacier Park Station, Izaak Walton Inn at Essex Station are some of the nearby stops.
Get around:
‘Jammer’ tour bus trip is available around the park. Car is another option for exploring the park. The National Park Service also operates free shuttles along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Fees/Permits:

Private vehicles pay $25 fee (valid for seven days). Individuals on foot or on bicycle must pay a $12 fee. Besides, a Glacier National Park Pass is available for $30.