Part 1 of 3
August
Revisit, Redux, Redo
Before heading out from the North Cascades, I did my usual research looking for areas for my next trip. Factoring in weather and temperatures, Glacier National Park looked like worth revisiting. I was there two years ago and managed to get a lot of amazing hikes in. It’s always a challenge to not repeat at least hiking trails, if not entire areas. Fortunately, the library in Winthrop, WA gave me an opportunity to go over maps and read up on hiking trails I hadn’t done. I also wanted to find alternative places to camp since free camping in Glacier is extremely challenging. Not only that, I remembered it being extremely crowded, and accessing the park by vehicle meant leaving really early to get a parking spot. Their free shuttle was an option, but that would put me at the trailhead later than I would prefer. After finding a few more camping options and some new trail ideas, I headed east.
Siyeh Pass: Amazing Alpine Variety
Mileage: 11.5 one way (side trip part-way on Piegan Pass Trail) – Elevation Gain: 2,405 ft – Access: Trailhead at Logan Pass, accessible via Going-to-the-Sun Road – Rating: Strenuous – Estimated Time: 5–6 hours
Driving up the notorious steep and winding, narrow Going-to-the-Sun Road set the stage for the first trail, and it did not disappoint. Siyeh Pass offers plenty of elevation gain and distance to make it challenging, while providing incredible variety.
It’s now one of my favorite trails, especially at Glacier, not only for the range of terrain but also because it climbs above tree line. Evidence of past glaciers and ongoing geological changes is everywhere, but the most striking part is seeing glaciers and their remnants slowly fading away—a reminder of how the landscape continues to evolve.
EGR Repair: Not Ready, Ready… with a Little Help from ChatGPT
Fortunately, I had planned for this issue cropping up again and had the necessary tools and equipment on hand. Most of the work could be completed following a few YouTube tutorials. Removing the EGR valve took about two hours, and guidance from ChatGPT and an additional video made it possible finally get the valve out! It was a satisfying accomplishment that got my back on the road- for now.
East Glacier Camp: Hidden Gem, Easy Access
This campsite offered a quieter alternative with easier access to trails compared to busier areas. It provided a peaceful base to explore the surrounding region without long travel times to trailheads as it did from the eastern side of the park.
Scenic Point: Alpine Views at Sunrise
Early mornings offered incredible panoramic views from Scenic Point. The rising sun cast dramatic light over the peaks, highlighting the alpine landscape. This was a bit of a rest day, but having it to myself on the way out was worth an early start.
Mileage: 7.7 miles round trip – Elevation Gain: 2365 ft – Access: Trailhead off Two Medicine Road – Rating: Moderate-Hard – Estimated Time: 5 hours
