9 Interesting Facts About Glacier National Park
Established in 1910, Glacier National Park in Montana covers over one million acres and is home to mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, lakes and a wonderful variety of thriving plant and animal life. Because of its vast diversity, the park is an explorer's paradise and offers something for everyone, from those seeking to enjoy breathtaking scenery from the seat of a car or boat to those wishing to get more up close and interactive with a hike, a climb, or even a glacier walk! While much is known about the popular park and its diverse inhabitants, here are 9 interesting things you may not know... 1. MOUNTAIN GOATS ARE A SYMBOL OF THE PARK
If you're visiting Glacier National Park, it won't be long before you spot the agile mountain goat, perhaps hanging out on the edge of a steep mountain cliff. The official symbol of the park due to their prevalence and perseverance in the area, the hardy animal has made a name for itself, carefully watching visitors from a safe distance or foraging for food. Their special hooves allow them to easily climb a variety of terrain, from rock to ice, with ease. 2. 'JAMMERS' ARE THE TRANSPORTATION OF CHOICE Vistors to Glacier National Park can enjoy tours of the park in style in historic red buses called 'Jammers.' Originally introduced to U.S. National Parks in the 1930's in an effort to reduce car traffic, this distinctive fleet of coach cars was restored and modified in 2002, with a number converted to run on alternative fuel. Many repeat visitors to the park say their drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road in the vintage Jammer bus with the wind in their hair was the best part! 3. THE PARK IS HOME TO 26 GLACIERS, BUT THAT NUMBER IS SHRINKING Glacier National Park is home to 26 glaciers, down from approximately 150 in 1850. That number is expected to continue its rapid decline as climate changes shrink their size, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). Of the existing glaciers, the largest is Harrison Glacier, at 1.6 million square meters. 4. GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD IS AN AWARD WINNER One of the most iconic stretches of land of Glacier National Park is arguably Going-to-the-Sun Road, the 53 mile-long scenic drive that opened way back in 1933 and boasts some of the most breathtaking natural views in North America. The road is famous, too, having appeared in the opening credits of the classic horror film The Shining, and having received several distinctive honours, including being registered as a National Historic Landmark, a National Historic Place and a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The road crosses the Continental Divide via Logan’s Pass, which can accumulate up to 80 feet of snow in the winter.