Last updated: July 17, 2024
Thing to Do
Canada Lynx

National Forest Service photo
Lynx canadensis
Canada lynx are similar to bobcats in appearance, but they differ in several distinct ways. Lynx are grayer in color, with less distinctive spotting, and they have much larger paws and longer ear tufts. The tip of the lynx’s tail is entirely black, while the tail tip of a bobcat is not. In 2000, Canada Lynx were listed as threatened in Glacier.
If a lynx is nearby, visitors should stay in a group, carry small children, and make noise. Do not run. Stand up, face the lynx, and try to appear larger by raising or waving your hands. Back away slowly. If attacked, fight back and use bear spray.
Canada lynx are similar to bobcats in appearance, but they differ in several distinct ways. Lynx are grayer in color, with less distinctive spotting, and they have much larger paws and longer ear tufts. The tip of the lynx’s tail is entirely black, while the tail tip of a bobcat is not. In 2000, Canada Lynx were listed as threatened in Glacier.
If a lynx is nearby, visitors should stay in a group, carry small children, and make noise. Do not run. Stand up, face the lynx, and try to appear larger by raising or waving your hands. Back away slowly. If attacked, fight back and use bear spray.
Details
Activity
Wildlife Watching
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Rarely seen
The Canada lynx is very rarely seen, but they reside in subalpine forests at elevations between 4,000 and 7,000 feet (1,200 and 2,100 m). Snow conditions are an important factor in their preferred habitat, and they are found most often in areas that receive relatively uniform and moderately deep snowfall.
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.