ML.........Redgap Pass is absolutely amazing. I had wanted to go through Ptarmigan tunnel to access the Belly River valley but it was snowed in so park service routed me through Redgap. Yes Redgap is a tough climb but not as bad as my guidebook had proclaimed (My guidebook uses words like "long and arduous" and "herculean effort by even a seasoned hiker"). I had a huge pack to boot (pun not intended) that included full length waders  ;D and the surprising news about going through Redgap was a shocker. But it was the proverbial blessing in disguise and was a highlight of my trip............I figured once I got into the belly River valley it was going to be flat and I was only going to be doing some 5 or 6 miles per day after getting in. I had 2 different people ask if I worked for National Geographic (hilarious)! Lots of questions about my shovel/hiking staff. The thing probably saved my life. You do not want to fall/blown off off the trail the last mile to RedGap. It was thrilling but a bit traumatic with the wind.......It was a close run thing.

If you are up for it you could go through RedGap, spend a few days at Elizabeth lake and back through Ptarmigan Tunnel.

But whatever you decide it will be great. Do not walk the trails silently. You must let them know you are coming and they will get out of the way. I had quite the stern talk with one young fellow who had a young gal with him. I had bumped into them and they were traveling silently. I spoke privately with the young fellow later at a shared campsite and told him that he had a responsibility to the young lady to insure her safety........he tap danced around during our talk but the next time I came across them he was blowing his whistle.

You must practice pulling your spray so you don't fumble around if you need it. The time I was there a group of college biologists was doing a wildlife survey out of Many Glacier. Of course I assume they were traveling silently. The leader of the group had to use spray on a momma Griz. It worked and she left.

I seen lots of bear sign but only came across 2 blacks who both got a loud talking to ( I may have erred in one situation as my aggression put 2 cubs up a tree........Oooooppps!)

Don't let your concerns about bears ruin your good time. It is easy to obsess on the blasted things. Just give a shout or continue conversation and they will get out of your way. The trouble starts when You walk up on them eating berries and they are 25ft away.   

I was rejected from the Madison show. Yup, tough competitive business out here on the street.......but it just motivates me to get better. So unfortunately I will not be able to check out where the locals hang out via your hospitality. Rats!