Safe Water

Water is not a problem in Glacier. But you must treat by:

• boiling
• chemical disinfection
• filter
• purify

We prefer a quality ceramic filter, especially since many of the campsites are on lakes instead of creeks, but weight of the filter is a consideration.

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Be Prepared

Do not treat Glacier lightly.

high passes might force the most fit hiker to turn back due to weather.

Have a back-out plan in case you need to evacuate.

You must be prepared mentally & physically. You must haul the right gear <checklist>.

You must be informed. Do your homework. Take notes from — or print — sections of this website. Get your hands on a copy of Lonely Planet Hiking in the Rocky Mountains.

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First Aid Kit

Prepare for the worst! You need a good First Aid kit in Glacier as you may need to care for yourself. For days.

Someone in your group should be qualified to administer First Aid. This is a serious responsibility.

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Hiking Technique

• Be cautious. A minor injury could ruin the hike
• Avoid the strain of big lunge step-ups, and the impact of big drop step-downs, whenever possible.
• Step OVER a rock or obstacle to a foot placement of similar height to your back foot when you can.
• Zigzag on steep sections. Many small steps are better than taking one big step up or down.
• To assist with a big step-ups (when unavoidable) push down on your knee with your hand as you extend that leg
• Take many short rests. Do not exhaust yourself on climbs

cliffside track on Highline Trail