These wondrous animals were named after Teddy Roosevelt because of his love for nature and desire of conservation. In 1909, Mr. Roosevelt set aside the Olympic area, which is in Washington State, for the protection of these animals. There are currently several thousand of these elk and as was said before, Roosevelt Elk are mainly located in Olympic National Park, but they can be seen as far south as Redwood National Park, which is in the middle California. Ranging in herds of 15-100, these animals are thriving in number. They are larger in size as compared to the Rocky Mountain Elk; however, Roosevelt Elk are more skittish around humans than other types of elk that roam the Country. Despite their being skittish, they can easily be spotted by taking a scenic drive through the park.
On the other hand, those who desire a closer look will face a more difficult challenge. Although their appearance varies little from other elk, one feels as though they are looking at a different breed of animal simply because of the name which these animals have.
The state of Montana wouldn't be what it is today if Glacier National Park wasn't established. Thanks to the efforts of George Bird Grinnell, a 19th century magazine publisher and cofounder of the Audubon Society, Glacier National Park was established in 1910. Located in the St. Mary region of northern Montana, part of Glacier National Park extends into Canada.
This extension was named Waterton Lakes National Park. In the early 1930's, these two parks joined together and gained the title of Glacier-Waterton International Peace Park. Shortly following the parks opening, Glacier Park Lodge was built. The Lodge opened in 1913, and it soon proved to be an excellent tourist attraction. In the lobby area, there were huge columns which reached to the high ceilings. These columns were hewn out of Douglas firs, giving the Lodge a rugged, woodsy look. Glacier National Park was advertised as the "Switzerland of America", because of the beautiful scenery.
For a short time after the parks establishment, the Great Northern Railway was a mode of transport for tourists who visited Glacier. The railway took the people to all luxury hotels, chalets, and campsites. However, due to the extreme winter climate of northern Montana, Glacier has a rather short tourist season. These small numbers of winter tourists caused the park managers to soon realize that the Great Northern Railway was unable to continue operating year-round. Eventually the Great Northern Railway became a seasonal tourist transport for Glacier National Park. This is the summary of Glaciers history. Once one knows what transpired in the past, it helps one to better appreciate what they see today.
As can be inferred by the name, Glacier National Park was named for the fifty-plus glaciers that dwell in its mountains.
The argument is made that the mountains of the park are a result of the supposed Ice Age. It is also said that the current glaciers are remnant proof that the Ice Age was a true occurrence. This story has some questionable areas; regardless or its truth, the wonder of glacier formation still exists. Glacier is also home to more than sixty mammal species. These animals consist of deer, elk, moose, wolves, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, cougars, wolverines, and grizzlies. It is highly possible for one to see many of these species, if they are willing to spend time in the wild. On the other hand, if a person were to take a hike through the park, it would be wise for them to bring a companion, for Glacier is the proud possessor of the highest concentration of grizzlies (about 200 in the 1,013,572 acres of the park) in the lower forty-eight states.
An unexpected, grizzly encounter could have the potential to be dangerous if the right measures aren't taken. Nonetheless, seeing all of these animals in the shadows of the glorious mountains is an encounter of a lifetime. The climate of Glacier is definitely something to reckon with. Summer temperatures range from 30F-90F; these temps allow for some comfortable times while traveling the park. These temperatures also permit the blooming of beauty to arise in the park. With its 1,250+ plant species, Glacier can explicitly show the many hews of creation's colors.
The park is a breathtaking sight during the months from late spring to early fall, but once winter sets in a different look forms. Although the glistening of the snow-covered mountainsides during a peaceful sunset can offer a lovely view, the temperatures and depths of snow would discourage all hopes of enjoyment. With temperatures in the -40'sF, and snow accumulations in the vicinity of 45 feet, this national park's winter season is not for the weak or cold-blooded. For some, the crisp, crackling air can give a feeling of rejuvenation, but for others, spending time in these kinds of temperatures would be nothing short of insanity. Despite its varying weather, the grandeur of its peaks represents the true majesty of God's beautiful Creation. Glacier National Park definitely deserves the title it has been given as, "The Crown of America".
