Pack String Assist
The Glacier National Park Pack String, led by Dave Elwood, is supporting firefighting efforts on the Sprague Fire. This silent and steady string of mules and horses have been hauling supplies for firefighters into remote areas of the park. Lead Packer Elwood and his trusty steeds Rattle, Otis, Karen, Oscar, Boon, and Harley were accompanied by a Public Information Officer from the Hutton Incident Management Team (who rode Tank) when they hauled supplies into the Crystal Ford Bridge for the Saguaro Wildland Fire Module a few weeks ago. (The Crystal Ford Bridge prevailed when the fire later went through the area!) Harley is one of the older mules owned by the park. She is thought to be 20 years old and is still hard at work.
Glacier National Park utilizes 66 horses and mules to carry out important projects. Park employees, firefighters, and visitors benefit from this service as the pack string is able to transport the tools and supplies necessary to manage the spectacular landscape.
NPS Photos [top image: Pair of firefighters pet the necks of pack mules] [middle image: Mustachioed man in wide brim hat ties pack onto mule] [last image: Firefighters and packers check gear on mules] (kl, sm)