Jamming in the Park

Jamming in the Park

Harkening back to the early days of automobile touring in the parks, each summer a fleet of red jammers weaves through Glacier and Waterton Lake national parks. Drivers began jamming gears on the vintage coaches in 1936, but today, only guides licensed with Glacier Park Inc. (406/892-2525, www.glacierparkinc.com) operate them. Park visitors ride them for special tours, as well as to traverse the park and go up the incredible Going-to-the-Sun Road.

One of the most popular drivers is Joe Kendall, known as "Jammer Joe" to passengers. His lively narration and colorful descriptions of Glacier have endeared him to many park visitors. in fact, he has so won the hearts of fans over his 10 years of service that the park has named a pizza parlor (near lake McDonald Lodge) after him.

Kendal's wife of 54 years, Geri, also works for Glacier Park Inc., as tour director for the dozen or so six-day Great Lodges of Glacier Tours each summer.

During the off-season, the Kendalls live in Illinois.

-Debbie Harmsen