Natural AttractionVulture Peak
Glaciated peak with Precambrian Belt rocks; backcountry scramble to the summit.
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Parke Peak
Last Updated: December 2025
Type
Geological Formation
Accessibility
Rugged, steep; not wheelchair accessible
Best Season
Summer
Busiest Season
Summer
Features
9,043 ft peak; Belt Supergroup rocks; uplift along Lewis Overthrust; glacial sculpting of alpine terrain
Elevation
9,043 ft
Overview
About This Attraction
Snow crowns the summit, and jagged faces rise above a ragged skyline. Parke Peak wears its tectonic uplift and later ice carving like a geologic badge. Belt Supergroup rocks, formed 1.6 to 0.8 billion years ago, emerge from the wall as evidence of a tectonic origin and dramatic glacial sculpting. The force at work here is an interaction of uplift along the Lewis Overthrust and relentless ice-driven erosion.
Quick Facts
Type
Geological Formation
Elevation
9,043 ft
Access
Rugged, steep; not wheelchair accessible
Main Features
9,043 ft peak; Belt Supergroup rocks; uplift along Lewis Overthrust; glacial sculpting of alpine terrain
What You'll See
Rugged alpine rock faces, exposed Belt Supergroup surfaces, distant Harris Glacier, panoramic valleys
What Makes It Special
Part of Crown of the Continent; direct exposure to Belt Supergroup geology and Lewis Overthrust uplift; named for John G. Parke
Best Time to Visit
Mid-June through mid-September is the snow-free window when backcountry routes to Parke Peak are most workable. For photography, plan dawn or late afternoon light to capture the alpine terrain and minimize glare; winter travel is unsafe due to heavy snow and closure of access routes.
Safety Considerations
Gravity hazards on steep slopes; risk of rockfall; hypothermia risk at elevation; rapidly changing mountain weather; wildlife encounters; no safety barriers; bear spray essential; stay on designated trails; dress in layers; carry water
Visitor Tips
- Parking is limited; informal pull-offs are common—start early.
- Cell service is extremely limited; download offline maps.
- Bear spray is essential; stay on designated trails.
- Dress in layers, bring rain gear, and carry plenty of water.
- Traction cleats may be necessary in winter; plan accordingly.
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ℹ️ Data Sources
grokipedia.com peakvisor.com wikipedia.org nps.gov usgs.gov ebsco.com npshistory.com glacier.org usgs.gov youtube.com beyondmydoor.com national-parks.org enjoyyourparks.com mt.gov YourNPGuide Editorial
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