Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go
Plan Ahead and Be Prepared

Adequate research, planning and preparation ensure safer, more enjoyable travels—especially in the wild and unpredictable outdoors—and minimize your impact on Montana’s resources and lands. Poor planning can lead to missed experiences, frustration, and when recreating can cause unintended damage to special places.

BEFORE YOU HEAD OUT:

Know what’s open and when.

Check business hours in advance; some business are seasonal only and/or have limited hours. Glacier National Park is open year round, but not all park roads and park concessionaires are open year round. Some state parks are day-use only. 

Secure reservations in advance.

Book airfare, lodging, campsites, rental cars, shuttles, tours and restaurant reservations ahead of time. Montana is not the kind of place where you should “wing it,” especially in the summer months. 

Be aware of fire restrictions.

Before you head out, know what fire restrictions (and stages) are in place, if any, and follow them accordingly.

Know the weather forecast.

Check travel updates and the weather forecast before you head out. Weather and temperatures can change very quickly and drastically, especially in higher altitudes. Knowing the forecast also helps with packing the right gear. 

Consider your skill level and activity limits when planning activities.

That peak might be calling your name, but before planning a summit or strenuous hike, consider your limits and abilities. 

Map your route and share your location.

Know your driving, hiking and biking and backcountry routes, and let friends and family know where you’ll be.

Know what to wear and pack.

Wear activity-appropriate clothing and footwear, and pack the right gear for your activity. Layers are essential. 

Travel responsibly with pets.

If you’re traveling with your dog in Western Montana, know where they are and are not permitted and follow posted regulations. Dogs are not allowed on most trails in Glacier National Park. If you are planning on traveling in other parts of the region with your dog, it should be properly licensed and up-to-date on vaccines. Aggressive pets should be left at home. Bring dog waste bags and pick up dog waste promptly. Always dispose of waste in proper receptacles, which you’ll often find near trails. If you don’t find a proper receptacle, you’ll need to carry the waste out with you. Make sure your dog doesn’t chase wildlife; this could harm wildlife, your dog or even you—or your dog could get lost. Make sure you carry enough food and water for you and your dog while you’re out exploring, and note that pets are not allowed on some public lands and waterways, and in other areas they must be leashed.

June 10, 2021