Glacier National Park, known as the “Crown Jewel” of the National Park System, sits astride the Continental Divide in northwestern Montana. While hiking, visitors to Glacier are treated to countless mountain peaks, alpine lakes and glaciers, and astounding displays of wildflowers. Wildlife abounds in the park and sightings of bears, mountain goats and mountain lions are regular. Wolves are sometimes seen, but more often heard. The scenery in the park is beautiful, and with the long summer days, sunsets and sunrises are often spectacular.
Recent archaeological surveys have found evidence of human use dating back over 10,000 years. These people may have been the ancestors of tribes that live in the area today. By the time the first European explorers came to this region, several different tribes inhabited the area. The Blackfeet Indians controlled the vast prairies east of the mountains. The Salish and Kootenai Indians lived and hunted in the western valleys.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Kalispell / drive to Glacier Park
Upon arrival, we will board our van and depart for Glacier National Park, arriving at our lodge in time for dinner. After dinner we will have an orientation to the park and our trip, plus a brief introductory workshop to prepare for the next morning.
Presentations:
Orientation by Paula and Kevin
Kevin - Exposure and Composition
Day 2: Introduction to Glacier Park / Sun Road
Today’s excursions will allow time to become acclimated to our surroundings, gaining a familiarity with the images the park will present to us over the next few days. The evening workshop will prepare us for the next day’s photographic opportunities.
Presentations:
Paula - Flora and fauna of the Park
Kevin - Macro and Wide Angle
Day 3: Landscapes and Flora
Mountain meadows, streams and waterfalls will be today’s focus. Visiting several beautiful areas of the park throughout the day we will enjoy panoramic views as well as intimate close-ups.
Presentations:
Paula - Geology of the Park
Kevin - Big lens or big view?
Day 4: Wildlife and Geology
Today’s excursion will concentrate on the most wildlife rich areas of the park as well as on the glaciers (and glacial valleys) for which the park was named.
Presentations:
Paula - Knowing your subject
Kevin - Creating a self assignment
Day 5: Self Assignments and Critiques
Today we will enjoy some of the areas we previously visited so that we can use the additional knowledge gained to see and photograph these areas with a different eye.
Presentations:
Some participants will offer some of their best images from the trip to be viewed and critiqued by Kevin, Paula and the group.
Day 6: Self Assignments and Critiques
Today we will enjoy some of the areas we previously visited so that we can use the additional knowledge gained to see and photograph these areas with a different eye.
Presentations:
Some participants will offer some of their best images from the trip to be viewed and critiqued by Kevin, Paula and the group.
Day 7: Return Home
Flights home from Kalispell throughout the day.
