Many Glacier, Two Medicine roads plowed

Glacier National Park plow crews have cleared the Two Medicine Road to the campground and the Many Glacier Road as well. Both roads could open to vehicles by the weekend, depending on the weather and snow melt. The Going-to-the-Sun Road could also open to vehicles to Avalanche by this weekend as well, though plans weren't finalized as of presstime.

The Two Medicine Road was open to vehicles to Running Eagle Falls as of presstime. There are still significant amounts of snow off the road in both valleys and it will probably take weeks for it to melt.

Closed roads make for pleasant hikes and bike rides with minimal crowds. Watch for ice on the Two Medicine Road on the hillsides just beyond Running Eagle Falls.

The east side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road is now open to Rising Sun and on the west side, crews were working a large slide at Red Rocks, which is just beyond the Avalanche Campground. They should be through it by the time the Hungry Horse News goes to press.

Hiking and biking conditions on the west side beyond Lake McDonald Lodge were good, with much of the pavement now clear of snow and ice.

Most trails in the Park are still snow covered, so you still need snowshoes or skis to get around. At lower elevations the snow is becoming rotten and holds weight poorly, particularly in the afternoons when it warms up.

The Park reminds folks that bears are awake and moving about. Carry bear spray and make plenty of noise while hiking.

The weather this weekend should help melt snow in a much bigger way.

Temperatures are expected to rise into the 70s by Sunday, with only a slight chance of rain, according to the National Weather Service.

For up to date road conditions visit Glacier's Web site at: www.nps.gov/glac