University of Montana researchers are working with the National Park Service to conduct visitor-use studies on trails along Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road in an effort to assess trail usage and trends inside the park’s main corridor.
Preliminary information from last year indicates significant increases in some trail use, according to the park. Research findings will help inform park staff and the public during the development of a Going-to-the-Sun Road Corridor Management Plan, which is anticipated to begin in 2013.
The last comprehensive trail-use study in Glacier National Park was conducted in 1988. Some preliminary analysis was conducted in 2011 and further analysis is being conducted this year. Researchers will use electronic vehicle counters on the road and visitor counters on trails. To ensure accuracy, staff and/or cameras will be stationed on some trails, roadsides, and parking areas.
Park officials said visitors may encounter researchers and research equipment at several areas along the Going-to-the-Sun Road this summer.