Carroll College Explores Glacier National Park

Our incredible trip to Glacier National Park took place from October 18th to 20th. This outing was part of our outdoor recreation program, with 24 participants eager to explore the beauty of the park. We engaged in three main activities: a driving tour, a hiking excursion, and an informative session with a park ranger.

During the driving tour, parts of our group explored the scenic roads and off-the-beaten-path sites, accompanied by some short hikes to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes fully. We also divided into two groups for 14-mile hikes—one group tackled the Dawson Pass Trail, while the other took on the Pitamakin Pass Trail. We chose these activities to offer a range of experiences, catering to those seeking a relaxed day as well as those craving adventure. Both trails, located in East Glacier, provided stunning views of mountain passes and valleys, making the long hikes worthwhile.

One highlight of our trip was the engaging morning meeting with Park Ranger Joseph. He shared valuable insights about the park’s history and the various career opportunities available in the field of conservation.

Overall, the trip was a resounding success! We were blessed with beautiful weather and vibrant fall colors, allowing us to hike during the off-season and enjoy a more tranquil experience in the park. It was a joy to explore such a magnificent place with fellow students! Participants had a fantastic time hiking, gathering around the campfire to share stories, enjoying delicious camp meals, and spotting a variety of wildlife.

A standout moment of the trip was encountering five moose during our hikes, allowing us to observe them up close. This outing profoundly impacted participants, showcasing the incredible outdoor opportunities available just in the backyard of our campus and highlighting how special it is to have a National Park nearby.