Editorial photo #12770367 Human Interest
Gunsight Pass Trail Montana
Hikers trek along the Gunsight Pass Trail near Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park, Montana, United States, on September 6, 2025. The trail climbs toward Sperry Chalet and passes through extensive forest burn scars left from the 2017 Sprague Fire, where regrowth now mixes with charred trees. Seasonal Canadian wildfire smoke lingers in the background during fire season, muting visibility across the rugged mountain landscape. Along the route, hikers encounter streams, alpine vegetation, and wildlife, with warning signs posted for frequent bear activity in the area. Sperry Chalet, perched high on a rocky ledge, remains a sought-after backcountry destination in the park. (Photo by Patrick Gorski/NurPhoto)