We have seen lots of bad behavior in our National Parks throughout the years and it normally has an unprofessional quality as it’s usually captured by bystanders with their phones. This was not the case last week when a cameraman from NBC Montana was in the mountains of Glacier National Park and turned his lens to capture a heated argument between two groups of hikers.
The confrontation started last week after a group of hikers confronted another group for being off trail and approaching several mountain goats. What began in an exchange of words rapidly descended into threats of violence as the pair who had approached the goats picked up rocks in a threatening manner with one yelling “how much is it worth to you” and cocking back the rock in a position to throw it at his accuser.
The man who confronted the hikers matched the threat and picked up a rock of his own. Thankfully a woman interceded and helped deescalate the situation and the pair of hikers walked away. What this pair said as they walked away was bleeped out but it would appear they were yelling racial slurs at the man.
This is a truly disturbing situation and we in no way condone violence but it should be noted that man who called out the hikers for approaching the mountain goats was communicating that they were in breach of Glacier National Park policy which dictates all visitors must maintain at least 25 yards from mountain goats. Learn more about Glacier National Park wildlife safety below.
Glacier National Park Wildlife Safety Guidelines:
All of Glacier’s wildlife can be dangerous. For most species, like moose, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and deer, visitors must maintain at least 25 yards (23 m) of distance. For wolves, grizzly bears, black bears, and mountain lions, a distance of at least 100 yards (91 m) should be observed.
The park provides a wonderful opportunity to view animals in their natural habitat. Along with this opportunity comes a special obligation for park visitors. Always enjoy wildlife from the safety of your car or from a safe distance. Do not approach wildlife to take photographs. Visitors who have gotten too close to animals while trying to get a picture have been severely injured in the past. Use a telephoto lens instead. This will not only ensure your own safety, but also the safety of the wildlife.
Feeding or harassing wildlife is strictly prohibited and subject to a fine. All wildlife can present a real and painful threat, especially females with young and males during mating season.
