Visiting Oct 5-11

Question

Hello,

Are we a little crazy visiting on above dates? I wasn’t sure if it’s too late in the year. We’re travelling from Australia sightseeing from SD through Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier and back to SD.

Answer

Visiting Glacier National Park from October 5-11 can be a bit of a gamble in terms of weather and accessibility, but it’s definitely not crazy! It all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

October is considered the tail end of the tourist season in Glacier, so many of the popular trails and scenic routes will still be open, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible early snowfall. The majority of the crowds have left by this time, so you’ll enjoy a quieter park, which many visitors find more peaceful.

Weather: Expect daytime temperatures to range from the 40s to 60s °F (4-16°C), with nights dropping below freezing. There’s a chance of snow, especially in higher elevations, so bring warm layers and be prepared for potentially slippery conditions in some areas.
Access: By October, many of the park's higher-elevation roads, like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, might be closed or partially open due to early snow. The road usually closes in mid-September, but sometimes it remains open until early October depending on the weather.
Wildlife: October is a great time for wildlife viewing, particularly for elk and mule deer, which are more active during the fall months. You may also spot bears preparing for hibernation, so be sure to keep a safe distance and follow park safety guidelines.

Even though some of the higher elevations may be inaccessible, there’s still plenty to do at lower elevations, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the autumn foliage. Just be sure to plan accordingly, as some facilities or lodges may be closing for the season around this time.

In summary, while October 5-11 is a bit late in the season, it’s certainly still a good time to visit if you’re prepared for cooler weather and possible road closures. The park will be less crowded, and you’ll have the chance to experience the beauty of Glacier in fall. Be sure to check the road conditions before you go and have a flexible itinerary just in case you need to adjust your plans due to weather!

Visiting Oct 5-11

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