The Glacier National Park Thunderbird Traverse is a demanding segment of the larger Glacier Divide Route, offering intrepid hikers a challenging off-trail experience through some of the park’s most remote and spectacular terrain. This traverse, typically starting near Brown Pass, involves navigating around Thunderbird Mountain and The Guardhouse, covering significant elevation gain and requiring advanced route-finding skills. Known for its airy scrambles, extended sidehills, and dramatic vertical relief, the Thunderbird Traverse presents a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Glacier’s backcountry.
What is the Thunderbird Traverse Route?
The Thunderbird Traverse is a crucial section of the 125-mile Glacier Divide Route, characterized by its challenging off-trail travel and breathtaking alpine scenery. While the exact distance of the traverse itself is not specified, it forms part of a route that includes over 40,000 vertical feet of climbing.
Key features of the route include:
- Starting point near Brown Pass
- Traversing around Thunderbird Mountain and The Guardhouse
- Ending at Jefferson Pass
- Significant off-trail navigation
- Following goat tracks and finding walkable ledges
How Difficult is the Thunderbird Traverse?
The Thunderbird Traverse is considered extremely challenging, even for experienced backcountry hikers. Here’s why:
- Technical challenges:
- Airy scrambles
- Extended sidehills
- Improbable ridgewalks
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Limited bailout options
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Slow progress:
- Approximately 12 miles in 12 hours between Thunderbird Mountain and The Guardhouse
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Recommended 8-9 days for the entire Glacier Divide Route
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Hazards and conditions:
- Bear presence
- Strict backcountry regulations
- Variable weather (rain, sun, snow, high winds)
- Icy trails and deep snow
What Are the Best Viewpoints Along the Traverse?
The Thunderbird Traverse offers some of the most spectacular views in Glacier National Park:
- Brown Pass area
- Ridges between Thunderbird Mountain and The Guardhouse
- Jefferson Pass
These vantage points provide panoramic vistas of:
- The Livingston Range
- High alpine terrain
- Glaciers
- Remote mountain peaks
How to Prepare for the Thunderbird Traverse?
Preparing for the Thunderbird Traverse requires careful planning and advanced skills:
- Physical preparation:
- High level of fitness
- Experience with off-trail navigation
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Comfort with exposure and scrambling
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Equipment:
- Microspikes or crampons
- Snowshoes (seasonal)
- Bear spray
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Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
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Permits and regulations:
- Obtain necessary backcountry permits
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Familiarize yourself with park regulations
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Weather awareness:
- Check forecasts regularly
- Be prepared for sudden changes in conditions
What Wildlife Might You Encounter?
The Thunderbird Traverse passes through prime wildlife habitat:
- Mountain goats (whose tracks often guide the route)
- Grizzly and black bears
- Bighorn sheep
- Marmots
- Various bird species
| Wildlife | Likelihood of Encounter | Safety Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain Goats | High | Maintain distance, don’t approach |
| Bears | Moderate | Carry bear spray, make noise |
| Bighorn Sheep | Moderate | Observe from a distance |
| Marmots | High | Protect food supplies |
What Are the Camping Options Along the Route?
Camping along the Thunderbird Traverse requires careful planning:
- Designated backcountry sites:
- Limited in number
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Require advance reservations
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Primitive camping:
- Must follow park regulations
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Leave No Trace principles essential
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Key considerations:
- Water availability
- Bear safety (food storage)
- Weather exposure
How to Access the Thunderbird Traverse Trailhead?
Accessing the Thunderbird Traverse typically involves:
- Starting point:
- Kintla Lake area
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Drive to the North Fork area of Glacier National Park
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Parking:
- Available at Kintla Lake trailhead
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Limited spaces, arrive early in peak season
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Initial approach:
- Hike from Kintla Lake to Brown Pass
- This approach itself is a significant journey
What is the Best Time of Year for the Thunderbird Traverse?
The optimal time for attempting the Thunderbird Traverse is crucial for safety and success:
- Late July to early September
- Factors to consider:
- Snow levels (higher elevations may hold snow well into summer)
- Daylight hours
- Weather patterns
- Park facility operations
How Does the Thunderbird Traverse Compare to Other Glacier National Park Routes?
The Thunderbird Traverse stands out among Glacier’s hiking options:
- Difficulty:
- More challenging than most maintained trails
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Comparable to other sections of the Glacier Divide Route
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Scenery:
- Offers unique perspectives of the park’s interior
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Less crowded than popular day-hiking areas
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Experience:
- Provides a true wilderness experience
- Requires self-sufficiency and advanced skills
What Emergency Preparedness is Necessary?
Given the remote and challenging nature of the Thunderbird Traverse, emergency preparedness is crucial:
- Communication:
- Satellite communication device recommended
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Cell phone coverage unreliable
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First aid:
- Comprehensive first aid kit
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Knowledge of wilderness first aid
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Navigation:
- Multiple navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
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Familiarity with route-finding techniques
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Emergency shelter:
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Ability to set up shelter in exposed conditions
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Park emergency procedures:
- Understand park rescue protocols
- Know key contact points along the route
The Glacier National Park Thunderbird Traverse offers an unparalleled backcountry experience for those with the skills and preparation to tackle its challenges. From its dramatic landscapes to the technical demands of the route, it represents one of the most rewarding adventures in the park. Proper planning, respect for the environment, and a deep appreciation for wilderness are essential for those undertaking this remarkable journey through the heart of Glacier’s rugged terrain.
References:
1. The Thunderbird Traverse to Jefferson Pass & Gyrfalcon Lake
2. Legit: the Glacier Divide Route || Trip Report – Andrew Skurka
3. Hiking in Glacier; Advice From A Local