Our visit to Many Glacier in Glacier National Park took an unforgettable turn when we encountered a big black bear feeding just off a busy path near the lodge. What began as a simple walk quickly became a moment of awe, caution, and gratitude as we watched this powerful animal move peacefully through its natural habitat.
Here’s the story: We arrived at Many Glacier Hotel where we were preparing to gather for a boat ride tour around the glaciers. As we began walking up the steep hill to the majestic lodge, we noticed someone rushing toward us. “Don’t come this way. Go around on another sidewalk. There is a huge black bear on the other side of this hill. He is busy eating berries. We don’t want to interrupt him.”
“Really? A bear in the middle of the busy path that many people follow to get to the hotel. Really? I would think that he would avoid crowds!” were my initial thoughts. However, honestly, I was really glad he was there as I was anxious to see my first bear within minutes of arriving.
We thanked the person for the information, veered to go the long way around, while very curious about the bear. This was the topic of conversation as we continued our short hike. As we walked just below the crest of the tall hill, there he was, the big black bear. While staying at a safe distance, yet getting as close as we dared, we carefully made our way toward him. (I am thankful for cameras with zoom capability!)
The Big Black Bear
We were mesmerized as the bear reached for a vine and quickly stripped it of all the berries. He did this with little effort and great accuracy. This wasn’t his first berry bush! “So that’s how those bears eat 200,000 berries a day,” I assumed.
A few minutes later, we noticed a father and son coming up from the opposite side of the bear. The duo was on the sidewalk path but had no idea that they were rapidly nearing a huge hungry black bear. Ken said, “We must warn them, yet remain quiet.”
Real Danger
Trying to avoid getting close to the bear, yet remain in the approaching man’s eyesight, Ken began to frantically wave his arms, point at the bear, and quietly speak to the father and son. Oblivious to the warning, the man continued to look down at his son while leading him into danger. If they stayed on the path, they would be within inches of the great beast!
By this time, the dozen so people that gathered, all began to wave and yell in a whisper, “There’s a bear, go back!” The two continued walking, ignorant of the many warnings. In desperation, the whispers became louder. Finally, when within about fifteen feet of the bear, the father and son heard the warnings, looked up and noticed. Wide-eyed and surprised, dad held his son’s hand and began to back away from the danger. Fortunately, the bear continued to ravenously attack the berry bush.
Big Black Bear Lessons
A few minutes later, we looked at the time. We had to tear ourselves away from gawking at the hungry bear. Afterall, we must rush so we would have time to eat in the lodge and then meet our boat for a tour of Many Glacier.
The big black bear at Glacier National Park helps us remember several things. From Genesis to Revelation, we see the warning signs of God’s wrath when we continue to sin. God used Noah to warn people of a world-wide destructive flood because of sin. Only Noah’s family listened. Abraham warned Sodom and Gomorrah of destruction of their city by fire because of sin. Only Lot and his family listened. Yet still Lot’s wife died because she looked back—she left but her heart was still there. Jesus, and his apostles, warned those who rejected Jesus would receive God’s wrath. Many warnings have been given in a whisper and then louder. Arms have been waved to indicate, “Stop, there is danger ahead.”
There is a danger greater than facing the big black bear at Glacier National Park.
The danger you face is a life apart from Jesus Christ. One day, the time and hour which we do not know, Jesus is going to return to earth and take his children to heaven with him. Those who have not asked Jesus into their heart will face God’s judgement and spend eternity in hell.
You don’t have to do anything to walk into the path danger. Just keep obliviously walking your own way and your fate will be sealed forever in a place of torment. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Heed the warning. Prepare for the coming of Jesus by accepting him as your Savior, the leader of your life.
Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13
Everywhere I go, I enjoy camping with Jesus—on the road and in life.
Enjoy your journey, and feel free to reach out.
Use the link below if you want to know more about following Jesus.
Travel Tips From the Journey
Visiting Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a destination that truly deserves a spot on your bucket list. But one thing you must know before you go: park entry requires reservations, and they disappear fast. We were online the exact morning reservations opened, but the phone lines were so jammed that by the time we reached someone—hours later—every summer entry pass was already booked. We were devastated, especially since the rest of our trip was already planned.
Thankfully, we discovered two great workarounds:
1. Take a Red Bus Tour (This Gets You Into the Park)
Some sections of Glacier allow entry if you have a reservation for a Red Bus Tour.
These tours are absolutely charming—more like riding in a long, open-air jeep with a roll-back roof than on a typical bus.
Perks:
- Your tour reservation serves as your park entry ticket
- No fighting for parking at scenic viewpoints
- Relax and enjoy the views while someone else drives
Drawback:
- You must follow the tour schedule, which limits your flexibility.
More info:
2. Take a Boat Tour (Also Grants Park Entry)
Boat tours are another wonderful option—and your boat tour ticket also allows you into the park for the day. We booked boat tours in several national parks, and Glacier’s was one of our favorites.
Here’s the tour we took:
This particular experience includes:
- A scenic cruise on Swiftcurrent Lake
- A short hike to Lake Josephine
- A second cruise across Lake Josephine
- The option to hike or ride the boat back
It gives you a completely different perspective of the glaciers and still leaves you free to explore the park afterward.
3. Enter the Park Outside of Staffed Hours
When we visited, the entrance gates had booths but no physical barriers—meaning you could drive into the park before rangers arrived or after they left for the day.
If you choose this option:
- Go early, before sunrise. You’ll witness breathtaking morning views and have the entire day ahead of you.
- Evening entry works too, but you’ll have very limited time to explore before dark.
(Always check current rules—park policies can change from year to year.)
Final Tip:
Make your reservations as early as possible—six months ahead if you can. Glacier is spectacular, but it requires advance planning to fully enjoy.
Wherever the road leads us, I’m always camping with Jesus. Enjoy your journey — and let me hear from you.