"Nature is not a place to visit. It is home." - Gary Snyder

1. Avalanche Lake Trail - Located in Glacier National Park, this scenic trail is approximately 4.5 miles round-trip and offers stunning views of Avalanche Lake and surrounding mountains.
2. Jewel Basin Hiking Area - This is a network of over 35 miles of trails in the Swan Range near Bigfork, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and peaks.
3. Herron Park - This park near Kalispell offers several miles of hiking trails through wooded areas and meadows, with options for shorter or longer hikes.
4. Whitefish Mountain Resort - The resort offers multiple hiking trails during the summer season, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes to the summit of Big Mountain.
5. Flathead National Forest - The forest has numerous trails throughout the county, including popular options like the Crane Mountain Trail, Strawberry Lake Trail, and Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge.

Please note that hiking trails can vary in difficulty, length, and accessibility, and it's always recommended to research and prepare adequately before embarking on any hike. Check trail conditions, pack appropriate gear, and follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.  There are also many books, maps & guides available on Amazon on hiking in Glacier National Park that can be a great resource before venturing out.

Avalanche Lake Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Glacier National Park in Montana, known for its stunning mountain scenery and pristine wilderness. Here's a description of the Avalanche Lake Trail:

Location: Avalanche Lake Trail is located in the western portion of Glacier National Park, near the Lake McDonald area.

Distance: The trail is approximately 4.5 miles round-trip (7.2 km).

Difficulty: The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty, with some elevation gain and rocky sections.

Scenery: The trail winds through dense forests of cedar and hemlock trees, along the shores of Avalanche 

Creek. Along the way, hikers will encounter picturesque bridges, cascading waterfalls, and lush vegetation. As you approach the lake, the trail opens up to reveal the stunning Avalanche Lake, nestled amidst towering mountains.

Trail Highlights:

• Avalanche Creek: The trail follows Avalanche Creek for much of the way, offering serene views of the creek as it flows through a scenic gorge with moss-covered rocks and lush vegetation.
• Waterfalls: Hikers will encounter several beautiful waterfalls along the trail, including the popular Trail of the Cedars waterfall, which is a highlight of the hike.
• Avalanche Lake: The highlight of the trail is the pristine Avalanche Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and rugged mountains. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water, reflecting the surrounding peaks, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Wildlife: The area surrounding Avalanche Lake is known for its diverse wildlife, including the possibility of spotting deer, mountain goats, and bears. Visitors are advised to practice proper wildlife safety and carry bear spray.

Amenities: The trailhead has a parking area, restrooms, and picnic tables. There are also ranger-led hikes and interpretive programs available during the summer months.

Overall, the Avalanche Lake Trail in Glacier National Park is a breathtaking hike that offers a rewarding experience with stunning mountain scenery, pristine wilderness, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. It's a must-visit trail for nature enthusiasts and hikers visiting Glacier National Park.

The Jewel Basin Hiking Area is a popular outdoor recreational area located near Bigfork, Montana, in the Swan Range of the Flathead National Forest. Here's a description of the Jewel Basin Hiking Area:

Location: The Jewel Basin Hiking Area is situated in the Swan Range of the Flathead National Forest, approximately 18 miles northeast of Bigfork, Montana.

Trails: The Jewel Basin Hiking Area features over 35 miles of trails that crisscross through a pristine alpine landscape of granite peaks, rugged ridges, and scenic lakes. The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of options for hikers of different skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

Scenery: The area is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and peaks, including views of Flathead Lake, Swan Lake, and the Mission Mountains. Hikers can expect to see alpine meadows, wildflowers, and stunning vistas along the trails.

Trail Highlights:

• Alpine Lakes: The Jewel Basin Hiking Area is named after its numerous alpine lakes, which dot the landscape and provide scenic spots for picnics and rest breaks. Some popular lakes in the area include Jewel Lake, Noisy Lake, and Lower Stillwater Lake.
• Granite Peaks: The area is known for its unique granite peaks, which offer challenging terrain for more experienced hikers and mountaineers. Some popular peaks in the area include Mount Aeneas, Picnic Peak, and Mount Edwards.
• Wildlife: The Jewel Basin Hiking Area is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, elk, mountain goats, and various bird species. Hikers may have the opportunity to spot wildlife along the trails.

Amenities: The Jewel Basin Hiking Area is a designated wilderness area with limited amenities. There are trailhead parking areas, picnic tables, and vault toilets available at some trailheads, but there are no campgrounds or facilities within the wilderness area. Hikers are advised to carry plenty of water, pack out their trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Overall, the Jewel Basin Hiking Area near Bigfork, Montana, offers a spectacular outdoor experience with its scenic trails, alpine lakes, and rugged granite peaks. It's a must-visit destination for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the beauty of the Flathead National Forest.

Herron Park is a popular recreational park located in Kalispell, Montana. 

Location: Herron Park is located in the heart of Kalispell, Montana, nestled between the residential neighborhoods of West Kalispell and the Flathead River. The park covers an area of approximately 44 acres and offers a variety of recreational opportunities.

Facilities: Herron Park features a range of facilities that make it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. These facilities include:

• Picnic Areas: There are several picnic areas with picnic tables and shelters scattered throughout the park, providing a perfect spot for picnics, family gatherings, and outdoor dining.
• Playgrounds: The park has multiple playgrounds that are suitable for children of different ages, offering a fun and safe play area for kids.
• Sports Fields: Herron Park has soccer fields, baseball fields, and softball fields, providing opportunities for organized sports and recreational activities.
• Trails: The park has a network of walking and hiking trails that meander through the wooded areas, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls and nature walks.
• Dog Park: Herron Park has a designated off-leash dog park where dogs can socialize and play in a safe and fenced environment.

Scenery: Herron Park is known for its scenic beauty, with large trees, open grassy areas, and the nearby Flathead River providing a picturesque backdrop. The park offers a peaceful and serene environment for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Events and Activities: Herron Park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, including community gatherings, sports leagues, and special events. The park is also used for outdoor concerts, festivals, and other recreational activities, making it a vibrant and bustling hub of community engagement.

Accessibility: Herron Park is easily accessible with ample parking available near the park entrances. The park has well-maintained trails and facilities that are wheelchair and stroller-friendly, making it accessible to people of all abilities.

Overall, Herron Park in Kalispell, Montana, is a popular and well-maintained recreational park that offers a range of facilities and activities for people of all ages. Its natural beauty, ample amenities, and community-oriented atmosphere make it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

Glacier National Park, located in Montana, is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering awe-inspiring views of mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park typically opens in late May or early June, depending on weather and road conditions, and welcomes millions of visitors each year.

The opening date of Glacier National Park can vary slightly from year to year, depending on weather conditions. However, typically, the park's main attractions, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road and visitor centers, open to the public around the third week of May. The park's campgrounds typically open in late May, and the park's lodges and backcountry campgrounds typically open in early June.

As for the first hiking trail to open, it can vary depending on the location of the trail and the snowpack in the area. Generally, the lower elevation trails and those on the park's east side tend to open earlier than the higher elevation trails and those on the park's west side. Some of the first hiking trails to open include:

1. Trail of the Cedars: This easy, wheelchair-accessible trail is located near the Avalanche Campground and follows a boardwalk through a lush cedar forest. This trail is typically open year-round.
2. Apgar Lookout Trail: This moderate trail begins near the Apgar Visitor Center and climbs 2.5 miles to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Lake McDonald. This trail typically opens in early June.
3. Swiftcurrent Nature Trail: This easy trail is located near Many Glacier and winds through a forested area, providing views of Swiftcurrent Lake and surrounding mountains. This trail typically opens in mid-June.
4. Highline Trail: This strenuous trail is one of the park's most popular hikes and offers breathtaking views of the Continental Divide. This trail typically opens in late June or early July.

It's important to note that hikers should always check current trail conditions before setting out, as weather and trail maintenance can impact trail access and safety.

In conclusion, Glacier National Park typically opens in late May or early June, depending on weather and road conditions, and offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore. The first hiking trail to open can vary depending on location and snowpack, but hikers can expect some of the lower elevation trails to be accessible as early as late May.