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    Hikes/Canada/British Columbia/East Kootenays

    Ptarmigan Lake Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    3.5-5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    11.4 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    572 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Ptarmigan Lake Trail

    The Ptarmigan Lake Trail is an 11.4 km out-and-back hiking route near Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park that climbs steeply uphill to arrive at the pristine shores of a small alpine lake. Along the trail, you will pass through meadows and forests, before arriving at the water’s edge with a dramatic backdrop of vertical mountain cliffs. This hike offers spectacular views for the moderate amount of effort required to complete it.

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    Route Description for Ptarmigan Lake Trail

    Hiking the Ptarmigan Lake Trail is an amazing experience that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of this small alpine lake and its breathtaking surroundings. Although the trail is steep, it is not overly difficult and requires more time than technical skill to complete. This area can sometimes become washed out, so make sure to check trail conditions prior to setting out on your trek.

    Initially, hikers will make their way along the road before breaking off through the forests and meadows that characterize the terrain in the area. Once you reach the edge of the lake, you will be greeted by a spectacular view of the shimmering water of the lake that is framed by the dramatic mountain peaks behind, including Blue Knight Peak. After exploring the area and taking in the spectacular scenery, head back along the same route to return to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Ptarmigan Lake Trail Trailhead

    To reach the Ptarmigan Lake Trail from the Alice Lake Campground, drive east on Whiteswan Lake FSR for 9.1 km and turn left onto Moscow Creek Forest Road. After 5.8 km, turn left and continue for 650 m before making a right to arrive at the trailhead.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      June-September

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Ptarmigan Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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    Ptarmigan Lake Trail Reviews

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