Glacier National Park officials announced on Friday that due to heavy rains and forecasted snowfall, the alpine sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road will be temporarily closed starting at 8 p.m. on June 20. This closure affects the stretch from Avalanche to Jackson Glacier Overlook.
The park plans to assess conditions and reopen these sections of the road once the weather improves. Just days prior, the entirety of Going-to-the-Sun Road opened for motorized traffic on June 16, attracting numerous visitors to Logan Pass during a period characterized by pleasant weather.
However, the summer season’s bright start in Glacier has been cut short by a winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service, effective from 2 a.m. Saturday to noon on Sunday. At elevations above 5,000 feet, heavy, wet snow is anticipated, with forecasts suggesting 5-12 inches above 6,000 feet and possibly up to 2 feet of snow accompanied by wind gusts reaching 40 mph at the highest altitudes.
Visitors are advised to expect significant disruptions due to snow, which could create hazardous travel conditions. Backcountry hikers should exercise caution, as navigating high-elevation trails may prove challenging. The closure area may be adjusted as required for the safety of both staff and visitors.
It’s essential to remember that weather patterns can shift rapidly in the mountains. Therefore, park attendees should remain vigilant and prepare for adverse weather. For the latest updates, checking the park’s website is recommended, and visitors can subscribe to receive notifications regarding road statuses by texting GNPROADS to 333111.
Despite the unfortunate closure prompted by weather conditions, this serves as a reminder of the park’s dynamic natural environment, underscoring the need for preparedness and respect for safety guidelines in the face of nature’s unpredictability.