Near record backcountry camping permit applications submitted this year

This past Monday was the final day that backpackers could submit a permit application, in order to be eligible for the advanced reservation request lottery. In a blog posting on the Glacier National Park website, ranger Mark Wilson states:

We have received approximately 1600 permit applications this year, which puts us on par with our busiest summer 2010, our Centennial year.

He also mentions that hikers should expect winter conditions in the high country along the passes until late July or early August, while backcountry campgrounds are likely to open on schedule. However, as Mark mentions, the weather between now and then can always change those time estimates.

If you've entered a permit application into the lottery, you may want to read his posting to find out what you can expect, and what the next steps are in the process.

So, if you think your having a stressful day on the job, this is what it looks like right now in Glacier's backcountry permit office:

Jeff
Hiking in Glacier National Park