Submitted by Lily Hartrick (Macalester College)
I have always loved camping and national parks, so getting to do both alongside some stellar and likeminded companions was a phenomenal experience. On the way to Glacier, we took three days to conquer the 18+ hours of driving; this allowed us to have two bonus nights of camping that were quite forgiving as far as camping goes. Cell service, flush toilets etc. made them perfect for transitioning into a bit more rugged conditions within the park. Both mornings we were up and at ‘em bright and early, so we quickly became pros at breaking down our REI four-person Kingdom tent. This also included deflating camp mats, rolling up sleeping bags and getting all our gear meticulously back into the van without squishing our research equipment.
Once we arrived in the park, we were met with a beautiful pair of campsites at one end of the campground. They were wooded and tucked away just enough while also being close by to anything that we could need. Such amenities were a bathroom with flush toilets, bear boxes, bear-proof trash cans, the lovely campground hosts and their dog and, most importantly, the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn complete with a coffee station that was frequented every morning. It was a pretty sweet setup. Camping where we did allowed us close proximity to all three lakes that we would eventually core. It was a perfect jumping off point each day that could not have been achieved by staying in a motel outside of the park!
Kelly took one of the cozier campsite spots while the six students set up tents within the trees. We kept the tents near each other for added convenience. I was in a tent with Abby and Paige – they both grabbed an edge so I got maximum heat by being smack in the middle. Most nights featured about 45 minutes of headlamp time. We journaled, chatted and read before we fully conked out. Some nights, we were too pooped to do anything other than fall right asleep. One of the greatest parts about camping is sleeping under the elements. Whether that is stars or raindrops, I think that your sleeping experience is enhanced by these natural components. Rain was a potent characteristic of our time in Glacier. Don’t get me wrong – it can be a real nuisance. Wet clothes, soggy meals and slippery hikes. However, I think it is well worth it. The lovely noise at night and the sense of truly being in nature are hard to beat.
Getting to settle into our tent homes for 12 days let the comfort reach its full potential. Clothes were spread out, and “decorations” (wet gear) were hung up. I have long said that I sleep best when I am camping, and this experience was no exception. It was absolutely heightened by the background scenery and the fact that we were lucky enough to be there for 12 days!
