Upcoming Glacier NP trip

Hi everyone,


I am setting out for Glacier NP with 3 buddies to do some backpacking in about 2 weeks, August 3 - August 11. I posted several months ago for some recommendations on backpacking routes, Ray and Ed's suggestions were very helpful.


Our first route starts at the Cheif Mountain Trailhead, over Gable Pass, and then along the Belly River, through the Ptarmigan tunnel, ending at the Many Glacier permit office. This route is 2 nights. We then have a night (Wednesday) off before starting the second route.


The second route starts at the foot of Bowman Lake and goes up to Hole in the Wall and then back again. We had requested a route that continued over Boulder Pass to Kintla Lake from Hole in the Wall, but were unfortunately unable to get it. However, if the Kintla campsites open up when we check in for our backcountry permit, we may be able to continue over Boulder Pass after all. This route is 3 nights.


This is our first trip to Glacier; anyone have any further advice on these two routes, or hiking the park in general? How cold should we expect it to be the first week in August (we'll be between 4000 and 7000 feet)? How about some good day hikes for our off days? Good places to eat on our off nights? Good drinking spots for our off nights? Other general recommendations?


Thanks very much,

Lance