Glacier plows reach Big Bend

After a streak of warm weather caused avalanches to halt snowplows on Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road, crews were able to clear snow from Haystack Creek to Big Bend this week.

Vehicle closures on Sun Road remain in place at Lake McDonald Lodge and Rising Sun.

Hikers and bicyclists still have exclusive access to about 14 miles of the road from the lodge to the Loop while plowing operations are underway. After 4:30 p.m. daily and on weekends, hiker-biker travel is unrestricted farther up the road.

East of Logan Pass, plows had halted at Siyeh Bend due to the continued danger posed by avalanches. The east-side crew instead worked on road maintenance on the Many Glacier and Cut Bank roads. Hiker and biker access is not recommended beyond Jackson Glacier Overlook, but no restrictions are in place.

The National Weather Service on Thursday predicted overnight lows in West Glacier to remain slightly above freezing headed into the weekend, but possible rain showers could produce ice at higher elevations.

The Camas, Many Glacier, Chief Mountain and Two Medicine roads are open to vehicle traffic.

The Cut Bank Road is currently open to the park boundary, although some icy conditions may remain. Access for hikers and bikers is allowed beyond the closed gate.

Two Medicine Road is closed to vehicles at Running Eagle Falls and the Inside North Fork is closed at Doverspike Meadow, Bowman Lake Road, Polebridge South Gate and Fish Creek.