Last updated: August 12, 2024
Thing to Do
American Martens

USFWS photo by Courtney Celley.
Martes americana
The American marten, also called a pine marten, is part of the weasel family. Pine martens have short limbs and a long, bushy tail. They are light to dark brown or black with a throat patch that is an irregular shape and size, with ranges in color from buff to bright orange.
The American marten, also called a pine marten, is part of the weasel family. Pine martens have short limbs and a long, bushy tail. They are light to dark brown or black with a throat patch that is an irregular shape and size, with ranges in color from buff to bright orange.
Details
Activity
Wildlife Watching
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Various locations
Finding a marten is mostly about luck due to their shy nature and preference to well-forested habitats. American martens prefer conifer forests with an understory of fallen logs and stumps. They will also use riparian zones, meadows, forest edges, and rocky alpine areas. They are active throughout the year and hunt mostly on the ground.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
In addition to driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road and other park roads, the Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, and the Trail of the Cedars are three of Glacier’s most accessible areas.
Improvements in accessibility are being made each year, and with a bit of pre-planning, all visitors can find Glacier to be a rewarding experience. Details on Glacier's accessible facilities and services can be found on the park's website nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.
Improvements in accessibility are being made each year, and with a bit of pre-planning, all visitors can find Glacier to be a rewarding experience. Details on Glacier's accessible facilities and services can be found on the park's website nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.