Blog recap here!
Right behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn is the trailhead for Iceberg Lake and the Ptarmigan Tunnel. They share the same trail as you meander in and out of aspens, meadows and firs, there are great views all around and ample opportunity to see wildlife in the meadows above you.
The trail for Iceberg Lake breaks off to the left while the trail for the Ptarmigan Tunnel continues to climb up towards the Ptarmigan wall. You finally come to a big basin with Ptarmigan Lake and can see the trail switchback in front of you to the iconic tunnel.
Once at the tunnel, you have an incredible view back from where you came. A walk through the wonderful 120′ tunnel and you can see into the Belly River drainage with Elizabeth Lake as you stand on a trail hewn among red rock cliffs. The views are truly incredible and the tunnel is a wonderfully unique feature put in so many years ago.
This is a strenuous hike that is 10 miles long with 2,480 ft elevation gain.
What to bring and details: Weather conditions in Glacier are often unpredictable and can change rapidly no matter what time of year – so please be prepared for any type of weather. We will hike regardless of weather – rain or shine. We suggest that you bring the following:
- backpack
- at least two liters of water
- snacks and a sack lunch
- hat
- rain gear
- warm jacket and pants
- sunglasses
- sunscreen
- bear spray
- camera and whatever else you might need!
Meeting time will be 8am at the GNPC office at 402 9th Street West, Columbia Falls, MT 59912 and will take most of the day.
Please call 406-892-3250 or drop us a line on our Contact Page if you would like to attend.
