Glacier National Park’s Highline Trail is one of the park’s most iconic and scenic hikes but experiencing it comes with significant dangers that visitors should be aware of before setting out.
Firstly, the Highline Trail is very narrow in sections with precipitous drop-offs especially near Logan Pass. Falls from these areas can be fatal. Combine that with snow and ice that can persist late into the season and the trail can have some truly treacherous footing with extremely high consequences.
Another hazard of hiking the Highline Trail is wildlife encounters. The trail is also in regular use by Glacier’s resident wildlife including mountain goats, big horn sheep and bears. Both black bears and grizzly bears inhabit the area around the Highline Trail and bear encounters are a real risk as highlighted in the following video.
In the past park rangers have closed sections of the Highline Trail due to bear activity and want to remind hikers that they encouraged to hike in groups, make noise when hiking, and have bear spray accessible and know how to use it. Learn more about bear safety at Glacier National Park below.
Glacier National Park Bear Country Hiking Safety Guidelines:
Make Noise
Bears usually move out of the way if they hear people approaching. Bear bells are not adequate or effective. Calling out and clapping at regular intervals are better ways to make your presence known. Do your best never to surprise a bear.
Hike in Groups
Hiking in groups significantly decreases your chances of having a negative bear encounter. There have not been any reported attacks on groups of four or more in Glacier. If you’re a solo hiker looking for company, check the Ranger-led Activity page for guided hikes.
Don’t Run on Trails
Joggers and runners risk surprising a bear on the trail. Trail running is strongly discouraged.
Carry Bear Spray
Bear spray is an inexpensive way to deter bear attacks and has been shown to be the most effective deterrent. Be sure you know how to use it and that you are carrying it in an accessible place. Check the Ranger-led Activity page for summer demonstrations.
Be Aware of Surroundings
Some environmental conditions make it hard for bears to see, hear, or smell approaching hikers. Be particularly careful by streams, against the wind, or in dense vegetation. A blind corner or a rise in the trail also requires special attention. Look for scat and tracks. Bears spend a lot of time eating, so be extra alert when hiking in obvious feeding areas like berry patches, cow parsnip thickets, or fields of glacier lilies. Always keep children close. Avoid hiking very early in the morning, very late in the day, or after dark.
Secure Food and Garbage
Never leave food, garbage, or anything used to prepare, consume, store, or transport food unattended. This includes your backpack or day pack. Secure all food and odorous items safely and pack out all garbage. Other scented items include toiletries, feminine products, sunscreen, etc.
