Iceberg Lake Trail Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Iceberg Lake Trail
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 4.5 km 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 1,857 m and is flanked by rugged mountain peaks, including the towering Iceberg Peak that looms over 914 m above the calm surface of the lake.
Find more epic hikes in Glacier National Park
Insider Hints for Iceberg Lake Trail
- This hike can be paired with Ptarmigan Tunnel, but it’s a long 24.9 km+ day.
- Spend a weekend in Many Glacier and explore all the wonderful valleys.
Getting to the Iceberg Lake Trail Trailhead
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!Route Information for Iceberg Lake Trail
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 Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Iceberg Lake Trail
At Iceberg Lake...so peaceful and quiet. Beautiful! No one but us! We filled our Camelback with the lake water and it was amazing!!!
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- 05:30
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Not too crowded, the beauty was spectacular as well as a number of views along the way.
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- 05:00
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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.
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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.
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Moderate hike. It has good variety of forests, wonderful mountain views and beautiful wildflowers.
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Phenomenal scenery! I enjoyed our tour a lot!
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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.
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We went in early June last year, the weather was good and wildflowers and a small waterfall along the way added to the enjoyment
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Stunning mountain, lake , and forest! ʕ￫ᴥ￩ʔ
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Majestic views everywhere with ability to see wildlife if you spend enough time in here (or get lucky).
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