Iceberg Lake Trail
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Iceberg Lake Trail
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Iceberg Lake is a wonderful hike in the Many Glacier area, especially early in the season when there are still icebergs that contrast the incredible blue colour of the water! The trail also includes beautiful wildflower meadows and stunning mountain views.
Getting there
To get to the Iceberg Lake Trailhead, head into the Many Glacier Area along the pock-marked road, remaining watchful for animals – bears are likely here in early summer. Park anywhere near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. Parking here can fill up fast, so arrive early or be prepared to walk some ways down the road from where you parked!
About
| When to do | June through September |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | Trailhead |
| Family friendly | No |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Iceberg Lake Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Iceberg Lake Trail Description
Halfway down the parking lot beside the Motor Inn are signs pointing towards Ptarmigan Tunnel and Iceberg Lake. These signs direct you up a road, past several small cabins to a tiny parking lot for guests staying at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. Right past the small parking lot is the trailhead for both trails.
The first 2.8mi of the path is similar between Ptarmigan Tunnel and Iceberg Lake. Emerge from the trees and hug the right side of the valley as you veer right below Ht. Henkel. You will be given great views across the valley with glimpses of Mount Grinnell and Mount Wilbur. The grade is slightly uphill, though nothing too steep. You will re-enter the trees as you approach the junction. Right before the junction are the beautiful Ptarmigan Falls, which have a smooth rocky place to sit – a perfect halfway break!
After passing over a small bridge and the pit toilets you will arrive at the junction. Turn left to continue to Iceberg Lake. The grade of the trail remains constant as you are once again thrown from the trees. Here you will be able to bask in the numerous wildflowers that permeate the entire meadow. From here you will also be able to see the first glimpses of the rocky cirque that encompasses Iceberg Lake.
Continue along the trail and re-enter some scattered trees before you crest a hill and go down the Iceberg Lake. Hopefully, you came earlier in the season, as sometimes the icebergs melt away completely during hot summer days! Looking up you will be able to see Iceberg Peak on the right and Mount Wilbur on the left.
There will most likely be many people soaking in this beautiful gem, so skirt a short while to either side of the lake to find some tranquility.
This trail can frequently be closed due to bear activity. Check with a ranger before proceeding on the hike. Even if the hike is open, carry bear spray, make lots of noise, and hike in a group.
Return the way you came, considering a hike to Ptarmigan Tunnel if you have the energy.
Trail highlights
Iceberg Lake
Located in Glacier National Park, Montana, near the Canada-United States border, Iceberg Lake is a popular day-hiking destination due to its moderate trail and ultra-scenic views. This alpine body of water sits at a surface elevation of 6094ft and is flanked by rugged mountain peaks, including the towering Iceberg Peak that looms over 3000ft above the calm surface of the lake.
Find more epic hikes in Glacier National Park
Insider Hints
This hike can be paired with Ptarmigan Tunnel, but it’s a long 15.5mi+ day.
Spend a weekend in Many Glacier and explore all the wonderful valleys.
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Suzy TQ 4 years ago
At Iceberg Lake...so peaceful and quiet. Beautiful! No one but us! We filled our Camelback with the lake water and it was amazing!!!
Jellybean 4 years ago
Not too crowded, the beauty was spectacular as well as a number of views along the way.
Stewart Graham 4 years ago
Saw a moose in the lake. Great hike along moderate terrain with side trails to the lake where I photographed a cow moose in the Lake.
footfall 4 years ago
One of the best hikes I've done! The scenery offers so many different variety of things, and this should be on your list if you are visiting Glacier National Park.
Heidon 4 years ago
Moderate hike. It has good variety of forests, wonderful mountain views and beautiful wildflowers.
LA Bright 4 years ago
Phenomenal scenery! I enjoyed our tour a lot!
Eden Meyk 4 years ago
This hike is more of an easy hike with some tough parts. There are great opportunities for picture taking and it’s definitely possible to complete this in under 6 hours.
Tom Pack. 4 years ago
We went in early June last year, the weather was good and wildflowers and a small waterfall along the way added to the enjoyment
Kohaku Ichinose 4 years ago
Stunning mountain, lake , and forest! ʕ￫ᴥ￩ʔ
liwei 4 years ago
Majestic views everywhere with ability to see wildlife if you spend enough time in here (or get lucky).