Glacier National Park Opening Soon (2020)

525 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the entire state of Montana as of June 7, 2020 [reference] What will be open beginning June 8? On Monday, June 8 the park will open the west gate entrance at West Glacier. The gate will be open until 4:30 pm each day until operations

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Driving to Glacier National Park

Are you concerned about flying this year? Driving to Montana from within the United States is a great way to enrich your vacation. Many of the routes here are incredibly scenic, there is less traffic on the road these days, and it is generally less expensive (especially now with low

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Purifying Water in the Wild

You’re stuck in the woods, supplies are running low, and the only source of water is a stream running along the edge of the forest. Can you dip your head in and a take a drink? Not a good idea, the water may contain toxic, microscopic organisms that can make

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How We Protect Our Guests

Smoky Bear Ranch has always been fanatical about cleanliness, long before recent concerns of COVID-19. Glacier National Park and surrounding area are pristine environments, and we wanted our existence here to be no less. We made a conscious decision when opening our lodging facility (26 years ago) to meticulously clean

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Learn About Glaciers

Introduction A glacier is a body of ice on land that may look exceptionally beautiful and simple, but it has a very complex formation process. Depending on the type of glacier and its location, glaciers may move down mountain slopes and can sculpt any adjacent landmass including cliffs, hills, and

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Growing Vegetables in Pots and Containers (Year Round)

If you don’t have a back yard, or simply want to experiment with indoor growing, a container garden is an effective way to grow many types of vegetables. The container (or pot) can be situated on a balcony, a rooftop, a community patio, near your windows or in a lighted/heated

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The Hairy Woodpecker – A Fascinating Specimen

While far from unique in the family of woodpeckers, the hairy woodpecker (which bears a striking similarity to the downy woodpecker in plumage and general appearance, differing primarily in the shape and size of the bill) is a fascinating specimen all the same. Categorized as a “medium-sized” woodpecker, the hairy

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Glacier National Park Weather

When vacationing in the mountains, the weather can be unpredictable. Coming prepared can make all the difference in the world, especially during colder times of the year. Although extremely rare, it can snow in Glacier National Park every month of the year therefore bringing appropriate clothing (just in case) can

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Golf Courses in Montana – Part 2

Welcome to Part 2 of our Montana golf course list – if you haven’t seen Part 1, click here. Don’t forget, competitive green fees and affordable lodging are a perfect combination for your next golf vacation. Wolf Point Airport Golf Club Type: Private 9 Hole: Yes Yards: 3267 Par: 36

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Golf Courses in Montana – Part 1

Golfing in Montana is a unique delight. Stunning forestry and mountainous backdrops coupled by comfortable temperatures can bring out your best game. Competitive green fees and affordable lodging are a perfect combination for your next golf vacation. In no particular order, enjoy Part 1 of our Montana golf course list.

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