In late June it can be cold and rainy so bring ponchos and warm jackets. There is a steep climb when you first start out and then a long steady climb until you finally come to the lake. For casual visitors who are not fairly fit, it can be a challenge. This hike has it all and its an easy one for avid hikers. This is definitely one of the best choices for a hike in Glacier and deserves special consideration. In total the hike is 9 miles and gains 1,200 feet, making it a trail suitable for most day hikers. After spending an hour or two sitting along the shore or dipping your feet in the icy water, it's time to retrace your steps back down the trail. Being encompassed by 3000-foot cliffs on three sides is an amazing experience. It is a beautiful sight, and one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. ![]() After some more climbing, you final crest a small ridge and get your first glimpse of the lake a couple hundred yards away.beautiful! The icebergs remain floating in the lake through August. Here the open slops to the left and right of the trail provide great chances for spotting grizzlies, so keep on the lookout. Continuing along the Iceberg Lake Trail, you exit the forest and the 3,000-foot cliffs surrounding the Iceberg Lake cirque come into view. The Tunnel is particularly desirable, as it provides a breathtaking overlook to the Belly River Valley to the North on its North side. Ptarmigan Lake/Tunnel is a great side trip for those with more ambitious day hiking goals. Not long after the waterfall, the trail splits, left heads toward Iceberg Lake and right heads toward Ptarmigan Lake and Tunnel. You cross Ptarmigan Creek just above the Falls. ![]() The waterfall is not easily visible from the trail, but you know it's there. Next, the trail enters some forested areas before arriving at Ptarmigan Falls. Immediately, great views of the Swiftcurrent Valley are unfolded alongside beautiful wildflowers. After the initial climb, the trail is a very gradual climb with breathtaking scenery. The trail begins at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and gains a significant amount of elevation in its first 1/2 mile. This hike was the highlight of the day, July 4th, capped off by fireworks in Kalispell. Iceberg Lake was one of my favorite day hikes I did during my 6-day stay at Glacier National Park in July 2006. It was a memorable experience.Īlthough seasons vary year to year, hiking a couple of weeks later this year would have been even better with the creek bridge installed and snowfields melted. The ambiance was so relaxing and peaceful since everyone respected the stunning ambiance of this setting. Many hikers were having their picnic lunches beside the lake which was still half frozen. The half mile from the creek to the lake were snowfields which were also dodgy to cross.Īrriving at the lake presents a stunning view. In fact it was a bottleneck waiting to cross. There was a dodgy temporary crossing (fallen trees) that challenged a few folks. The trail was well maintained with scenic views. Since the gate was still closed, all the hikers were heading to Iceberg Lake.īe sure and turn left at the halfway point to the lake rather than to the Ptarmigan trail. ![]() Its a popular hiking trail with lots of hikers since first part of trail is also the way to the Ptarmigan trail and gate. There was a small parking area near the trailhead but full already. Parking was easy near the Swiftcurrent Inn since we were there early driving from St Mary.
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