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Archive 2013 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?
  
 
jstephens62
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


I have the second week in September blocked out for a photo trip, and I was originally thinking of going to Glacier National Park, a place I have never been. In doing some research though, it seems like it might be late in the season, with many of the campgrounds closing right around that time. An alternative would be to go to the Canadian Rockies between Jasper and Banff. I have bee there once, but the weather was not great, and obviously could do a lot on a second trip there.

Realizing there is no right answer, I would appreciate thoughts and advice from those with more experience than I.

Thanks if advance.


May 05, 2013 at 11:59 PM
stanparker
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


Can't go wrong, of course. You might wait and get the latest weather forecast before deciding. I've been to both places off-season and the lack of crowds made it a great experience despite some closings. I just find one open and stay in that one place. I can see the advantage of moving base camp, however, so that may be an issue for you.


May 06, 2013 at 05:32 AM
oldrattler
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


I have not been to either location but when The opportunity comes I likewise will be camping. I will make the internet my best friend and let it do the work. Check out
:: http://www.nps.gov/glac/index.htm
::: http://www.rv-camping.org/Montana.html
::: http://www.goodsamclub.com/travel/campgroundsandrvparks/SearchResults.aspx?city=&zip=&state=MT&country=USA&name=Glacier&goodsam=1&sort=featured&radius=25&camping=0&rvparts=0&rvservice=0&rvsales=0&rvrentals=0&attractions=0&bigrigs=0&internet=0&pets=0&swimming=0&openallyear=0&tent=0&rentals=0&age=0&rating1=0&rating2=0&rating3=0&rating2perfect=0&tour=0&photos=0&video=0
Hope this helps. Jim
May 06, 2013 at 05:54 AM
Sneakyracer
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


jstephens62 wrote:
I have the second week in September blocked out for a photo trip, and I was originally thinking of going to Glacier National Park, a place I have never been. In doing some research though, it seems like it might be late in the season, with many of the campgrounds closing right around that time. An alternative would be to go to the Canadian Rockies between Jasper and Banff. I have bee there once, but the weather was not great, and obviously could do a lot on a second trip there.

Realizing there is no right answer, I would appreciate...Show more →

I do not think Glacier is a good choice in September. I mean, its still an Amazing place! But there are several "issues" that time of year:
-Most facilities will be closing for the winter season.
-Bears are very active that time of year since they sometimes have to feed up to 20 hours a day to prepare for hibernation.
-Fall foliage is mostly not that great there, its mostly evergreens.
http://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/fall.htm

I went to Colorado the last week of Sept. last year and it was amazing. I would suggest heading out there to the town of Ridgway and explore the area. There are MANY amazing photo ops in that area of Colorado, specially during the fall. Aspen is also amazing that time of year.


May 06, 2013 at 06:09 AM
matthewh133
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


The Canadian Rockies will be beautiful then, but Sneakyracer's suggestion is also a great one. Colorado is incredible in mid-late September.
May 06, 2013 at 06:56 AM
Ear Mountain
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


The middle of September is an excellent time to visit Glacier. I live nearby and have had many many great photo trips in the park at that time of year. Yes some facilities will be closing but plenty of campgrounds will be open and they will not be full or crowded. The weather in September is usually wonderful with clear sunny days and cool nights. Aspens and other plants will provide plenty of color, especially on the east side of the park. The grocery stores in Browning will be open for supplies as will the Trading Post in East Glacier.

Bears are active all year and you won't find them any more dangerous in the fall as long as you take the standard precautions of being alert and carry bear spray.
May 06, 2013 at 08:27 AM
dgdg
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


We went to Glacier last year early september. Loved it. Stayed at Many Glacier and Swift Current Lodge. I think which park (banff/jasper vs glacier) you will enjoy more probably depends on random events out of your control. If you've never been to Glacier, I would go there. Glacier apparently has more moose I have read and my wife certainly enjoyed her first moose sightings.
May 06, 2013 at 08:56 AM
Ear Mountain
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


Btw the Canadian Rockies have the same kind of bears as Glacier.
May 06, 2013 at 01:12 PM
Scott Stoness
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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


Our bears are nicer They say sorry as they eat you.

September 2nd week is very good for Banff/Jasper. 3rd week is best usually. Larch will be in early to mid change of color. Lake Ohara, Moraine Lake, Bow Lake, Elk in rut, Grizzlies eating berries... It is fantastic. The hiking is also still very good. Campsites are open.

However, there can be snow, it can rain... but its worth it.

If you decide to come -send me a PM and I will suggest an intinerary.

Scott
May 06, 2013 at 03:32 PM
mike reid
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p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


I'm set to go to Banff this Sept. Hope to fly into Calgary, rent a car and explore. Lots of ideas but definitely want to hit Lake OHara and Opabin Prospect amongst the usuals.

Comments Scott?
May 06, 2013 at 03:58 PM
MysticPix43
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p.1 #11 · p.1 #11 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


I've backpacked in Glacier a couple times in September. One time we had snow at 50 Peaks. But it was not enough to be a real bother. The park is lovely in September with fewer tourists. Prior to going in and after coming out we camped in campgrounds in East Glacier; no problems there. Photo ops in Glacier are fantastic. Wherever you go, I think you will find September a beautiful transitional month to go. Do remember that in the mountains weather can be very changeable in September.
May 06, 2013 at 08:39 PM
stanparker
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p.1 #12 · p.1 #12 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


MysticPix43 wrote:
I've backpacked in Glacier a couple times in September. One time we had snow at 50 Peaks. But it was not enough to be a real bother. The park is lovely in September with fewer tourists. Prior to going in and after coming out we camped in campgrounds in East Glacier; no problems there. Photo ops in Glacier are fantastic. Wherever you go, I think you will find September a beautiful transitional month to go. Do remember that in the mountains weather can be very changeable in September.

As I said earlier, you can't go wrong with either area. Both have beautiful scenery and great wildlife. Weather can always dampen things, so check forecasts and make your decision as late as possible. Even a little weather will not prevent enjoyment of either. Colorado is also very nice, especially in Sept. So are many other states, you can't do them all in the same year.
May 06, 2013 at 09:16 PM
chez
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p.1 #13 · p.1 #13 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


mike reid wrote:
I'm set to go to Banff this Sept. Hope to fly into Calgary, rent a car and explore. Lots of ideas but definitely want to hit Lake OHara and Opabin Prospect amongst the usuals.

Comments Scott?

Lake Ohara has a quota system to get in. There are only two ways into the region, by bus or by walking in 12km. The bus system has the quota and you need to make reservations 3 months in advance. If you are camping, Lake Ohara has a really nice campsite with somewhat rustic facilities. You can easily spend 3 days exploring this area.
May 07, 2013 at 01:46 AM
Scott Stoness
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p.1 #14 · p.1 #14 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


chez wrote:
Lake Ohara has a quota system to get in. There are only two ways into the region, by bus or by walking in 12km. The bus system has the quota and you need to make reservations 3 months in advance. If you are camping, Lake Ohara has a really nice campsite with somewhat rustic facilities. You can easily spend 3 days exploring this area.

Agree with all Chez says but add:
1) Lake Ohara - there is a separate quota on campground vs day use and in september usually you can easily get in to campground.
2) Lake Ohara - Opabum basin is great - I think the best view for Lake Ohara - it takes about 1.5 hours to get up to the top. So the challenge is sunrise walking alone in the dark. Sunset is great and you can still catch the bus since September is darker and the mountains provide cloud.
3) Morain Lake is fantastic at this time of year. Early morning on the rock pile. Go weekdays for less people.
4) Larch Valley hike (needs 4 people but show up at the trail and find some friends) from moraine is great for larch.
5) Bow Lake with changing leafs is great
6) Peyto Lake Lookout is great for sunrise or just after sunrise.
7) Herbert Lake is great for sunrise or nigh photography of milky way
8) Sunshine meadows is great - taking gondola up and staying past shut down and walk down with headlights if you are brave or call me and I will do it with you.
9) Vermillion is great
10) Two Jack is great
11) I usually helicopter to Mt Assiniboine at this time of the year - very nice

How long are you going and where staying? I lke Baker Creek Chalet for being central (but isolated). Grizzly are frequent on this road eating berries at this time of year.

Edited on May 08, 2013 at 10:17 PM · View previous versions
May 07, 2013 at 03:05 PM
DanNehmer
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p.1 #15 · p.1 #15 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


September in Glacier would be awsome. I wouldn't let weather scare you, and the reduced crowds will really make your photography goals easier. The reduced crowds also mean camping is easy and flexible, if the weather gets bad you can just move to lower ground or somewhere else.

A couple years ago we were in Glacier the 2nd week of September and it was truly an awsome experience.

Enjoy,
Dan
May 08, 2013 at 02:09 PM
jstephens62
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p.1 #16 · p.1 #16 · Advice - Glacier vs. Canadian Rockies in September?


Thanks to all for great advice, I think I am Glacier bound.


May 12, 2013 at 05:25 PM





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