Question 1

Are bears common on this trail?

Accepted Answer

Yes—this is bear country. Make noise, travel in a group if possible, and store any food away from your person.

Question 2

Is the trail kid-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it’s family-friendly, but supervise children near water and on slick rocks.

Question 3

Do I need a permit to hike this trail?

Accepted Answer

No permit is required for day hiking; you’ll need the standard Glacier National Park entrance pass.

Question 4

Is there shade along the route?

Accepted Answer

Shade is limited in places due to the 2015 wildfire, so bring sun protection and plan for sun exposure.

Question 5

What if the parking lot is full when I arrive?

Accepted Answer

Park at Sunrift Gorge pullout and use the free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road to reach the trailhead.

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