https://www.runnersworld.com/trail-running/of-glaciers-and-grizzlies
30 miles: The Mad Dash - Logan Pass to Goat Haunt
Elevation Drop: 2,740 > Elevation Gain: 5,090 > Time Estimate: 6–8 hours
Traditionally called The Mad Dash, this run between Logan Pass and Goat Haunt demands a time schedule. Unless you want to add on another nine miles to run around Canada’s Waterton Lake, you’ll need to hop a tour boat to cross the lake over the international border.
Because of the border crossing, you’ll need to pack along your passport, boat money, and either arrange for friends to meet you in Waterton, Alberta, or spend the night in the historic Prince of Wales Hotel until you can catch the shuttle back into Montana. Or you can start the run in Canada: For simpler logistics, most locals opt to run from Goat Haunt south to Logan Pass. It’s easier to get a morning ride to Waterton to catch the 10 a.m. boat down the lake to the trailhead. Plus, as Reardon says, "It’s an advantage to finish in the alpine rather than a forest when you’re tired."
From Goat Haunt, the trail undulates with a nice warmup through old growth mosquito forest before beginning a relentless ascent to Fifty Mountain—one of the park’s biggest wildflower meadows. Broad avalanche-swept talus bowls ruled by marmot and pika screams mark the route’s remaining 20 miles that hang right at the tree line. Be ready to slam on the brakes for bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and grizzly bears who frequent the trail. Hot afternoons above tree line can be brutal, but water tumbles in creeks across the trail every four miles or so.
With 7.6 miles remaining, you’ll pass historic Granite Park Chalet, a good rest stop selling candy bars and drinks. "Bring $5," laughs Reardon, recalling his calorie-depleted condition. "It’s torture to stare at the food in there." After refueling, you can hit the final scenic populated stretch, a level jaunt along cliffs with one big climb. You’ll finish smack in the park’s middle at Logan Pass.
Resources:
Glacier National Park: 406.888.7800, www.nps.gov/glac
Glacier Park, Inc.: 406.892.2525, www.glacierparkinc.com (lodging, dining and shuttles)
Waterton Shoreline Cruise Company: 403.859.2362, www.watertoncruise.com
