Backpacking 38 Miles to a Glacier—That Could Disappear by 2030

By Bryden Bowley | September 21, 2021

Glaciologists have predicted that, if carbon dioxide levels continue to rise, all glaciers inside Glacier National Park will disappear by the year 2030. If an increase in overall carbon dioxide levels slows, however, some glaciers could remain until the year 2277.

Last summer, I hiked 38 miles past one of the glaciers in question: Grinnell Glacier. This unbelievable route—pieced together from sections of the Highline Trail and Continental Divide Trail—truly had it all. Regardless of where my travels take me, I find myself returning to Glacier National Park again and again. I hope the glaciers will continue to greet me.

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