ODR takes trip to Glacier

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina Heikkinen
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Six members of Team Malmstrom braved the unpredictable climate of Glacier National Park during an overnight cross-country ski and snowshoe trek to Many Glacier, sponsored by Outdoor Recreation, Feb. 11-12.

More than seven miles of skiing to the campsite was a brutal awakening for the few who had never cross-country skied before. But the sights of the Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine surpassed all pain.

After skiing for six hours carrying everything they needed on their backs, the drained group finally reached their destination.

"'The few and the proud' accurately describes those who venture into Glacier backcountry for a winter overnight trip," said Jim Beisel, Outdoor Recreation programmer. "It takes a mental and physical toughness, and good planning. There's no closet to go get an extra fleece or warmer pants, but there are some fantastic sights reserved for those who get out there."

For Airman 1st Class Tracy Wetzel, 819th RED HORSE Squadron pavement and equipment operator, an active volunteer with Outdoor Recreation and a participant in more than 25 trips, the overnight adventure was well worth the challenge.

"This trip is my third winter camping trip with Outdoor Recreation and I loved it," Wetzel said. "Going to Glacier is always a must for me."

From how many layers to wear, to bringing the right food to learning how to avoid bears to packing snow for a tent, the whole trip was a learning curve, especially for the less experienced winter adventurers.

"Competence in outdoor skills also breeds confidence in all life's endeavors," Beisel said. "Every challenge overcome primes one with the 'I can handle this, too' attitude when faced with the next challenge. The experience of spending winter nights in the mountains might even save your life since sliding off a remote road is an ever-present possibility for Montana winter travelers."

While few get the opportunity to go on a backpacking trip to Glacier National Park, Malmstrom's Outdoor Recreation offers Airmen a variety of affordable opportunities to hike, ski, snowshoe, white-water raft, kayak and much more.

"Having Outdoor Rec. is a necessity," Wetzel said. "I can't think of anywhere else or any other program that you can do, for so little cost. Montana has so much to offer and the experience and knowledge of the staff at ODR is unsurpassed."

For more information on upcoming trips, visit www.341fss.com/odr or call ODR at 731-3263.