Burn Bans in MT??

[SunnyWalker]

I know of a burn ban being enacted pretty quick on the Gila. I was wondering, even though its pretty early anyone heard of any burn bans in Montana along the CDT? Thanks. (This is in RE to a SOBO CDT thru hike starting this June 20th 2014).

[Malto]

The Bob is currently at 140% normal snow levels so doubtful there are any additional bans. Suspect your SoBo will be quite wet.

[Marta]

It's soaking wet in Glacier at the moment...everywhere that isn't still under snow. The rivers and creeks are starting to rise. There won't be any burn bans for a couple of months, if then.

[Marta]

Here's what's going on now in GNP:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/glaciernps

[Spirit Walker]

This year that won't be a problem. There are often fires that will close sections of the trail, but they rarely close an entire Ntl. Forest. In 2000, they closed the entire state, except for Glacier NP, to all camping. Thruhikers had to skip Montana.

[SunnyWalker]

Thanks everyone!

[Marta]

Some avalanche photos taken last night along the GTTS Rd. on the east side of GNP. This isn't even at high elevation, and the amount of snow on the ground is staggering. (The non-avalanche areas still have high-high snow)

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[Venchka]

I know of a burn ban being enacted pretty quick on the Gila. I was wondering, even though its pretty early anyone heard of any burn bans in Montana along the CDT? Thanks. (This is in RE to a SOBO CDT thru hike starting this June 20th 2014).

Are you thinking of SOBO on June 20, 2014? Based on the above responses from Malto and Marta, and historical data I keep an eye on, July would be a far better and safer time to start. Wait until the bridges have been replaced. That information is available online and by phone from the folks who work the backcountry area of the park.
Good luck!

Wayne

[Venchka]

Marta can tell us what the snow pack was like last year, the week of June 20, 2013. Here is one account of that week. Way above my danger threshold. YMMV.

http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=422309

http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=421342

Last year things improved through The Bob down to Lincoln, MT.

http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=424858

Maybe you could start NOBO from Lincoln, MT and flip-flop back to Lincoln after Glacier?
Be careful! Be safe!

Wayne

[MTn music]

We've had a very snowy year here in Montana so you should be good for a while. Our fire seasons don't normally start until July to Sept. Once fire season starts, it just depends on how dry an area is before they have complete fire restrictions. Some areas will enact restrictions where others won't. In June, you would be good most years. This year, it really looks like you'll be fine. If you'd like more info when you get closer to the time, I'd be happy to let you know then

[Marta]

My husband and I rode even further up the west side of the GTTS Rd. yesterday. There have been a staggering number of avalanches this year. Way more than last year.

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Yes, the snow level next to the trailer, which is maybe 3000' lower in elevation than Logan Pass, was above my waist on 4/21.

[Venchka]

All the more reason to wait.
Be safe, Y'all!

Wayne