The Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail in Glacier National Park offers a unique hiking experience, featuring a 250-foot tunnel carved through the mountainside. This strenuous 10.7-mile round trip trail boasts stunning alpine scenery, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views of glacially carved valleys. Hikers traverse through varied terrain, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes, before reaching the historic tunnel that provides access to breathtaking vistas on both sides of the Ptarmigan Wall.
What Makes the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail Unique?
The Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail stands out among Glacier National Park’s many hiking options due to its distinctive features:
- Historic 250-foot tunnel
- Diverse landscapes and ecosystems
- Panoramic views of multiple mountain ranges
- Opportunity to see varied wildlife
- Access to both sides of the Ptarmigan Wall
What Are the Trail Specifics?
- Length: 10.7 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,300 to 2,492 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Estimated Time: 6-8 hours
The trail begins at the Iceberg Lake/Ptarmigan Tunnel trailhead near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn in the Many Glacier area. For the first 2.5 miles, it shares the path with the Iceberg Lake Trail before branching off to the right at the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail Junction.
What Can Hikers Expect Along the Trail?
Hikers on the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail will encounter a variety of landscapes and landmarks:
- Ptarmigan Falls
- Ptarmigan Lake
- Series of waterfalls and cascades along Ptarmigan Creek
- Views of Mt. Wilbur and Crowfeet Mountain
- Glacially sculpted U-shaped valley between Ptarmigan Wall and Crowfeet Mountain
- The 250-foot Ptarmigan Tunnel
- Views of Natoas Peak and Crosley Ridge
- Belly River Valley vistas
- Old Sun Glacier on Mt. Merritt (visible beyond the tunnel)
- Elizabeth Lake (visible beyond the tunnel)
How Challenging Is the Hike?
The Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail is considered strenuous due to:
- Significant elevation gain (2,300-2,492 feet)
- Steep switchbacks
- Rocky ledges
- Uneven terrain
These factors make the trail challenging for most hikers and potentially unsuitable for those with mobility issues.
What Are the Best Times to Hike the Trail?
The optimal time to hike the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail is during the summer months, typically from early July to late September. This is because:
- The tunnel’s heavy metal doors are closed from approximately October 1 to early July.
- Summer offers the best weather conditions for hiking.
- Snow and ice are usually cleared from the trail by early July.
- Wildflowers are in bloom during the summer months.
What Wildlife Might Hikers Encounter?
The Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail offers opportunities to observe various wildlife species:
- Mountain goats
- Bighorn sheep
- Marmots
- Pikas
- Various bird species, including the trail’s namesake, the ptarmigan
| Animal | Habitat | Best Viewing Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain Goats | Rocky slopes | Near the tunnel and on surrounding cliffs |
| Bighorn Sheep | Alpine meadows | Open areas along the trail |
| Marmots | Rocky areas | Near boulder fields and rocky outcrops |
| Pikas | Talus slopes | Listen for their distinctive calls in rocky areas |
| Ptarmigan | Alpine tundra | Higher elevations near and beyond the tunnel |
Note: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed or approach them.
What Should Hikers Bring?
Given the trail’s length and difficulty, hikers should come prepared with:
- Plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters per person)
- High-energy snacks and lunch
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Layers of clothing for changing weather conditions
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Trekking poles (recommended for steep sections)
- Bear spray (available for purchase or rent in the park)
- First aid kit
- Map and compass or GPS device
- Camera for capturing the stunning views
Are There Any Permits or Regulations to Be Aware Of?
While no specific permits are required for day hiking the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail, there are some regulations and considerations:
- Backpackers need to secure backcountry permits to continue beyond the tunnel.
- The tunnel is only accessible during summer months (typically early July to late September).
- Hikers should practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the park’s ecosystem.
- Be aware of bear safety guidelines and carry bear spray.
How Do I Get to the Trailhead?
The Ptarmigan Tunnel trailhead is located at:
- Swiftcurrent Motor Inn parking lot in the Many Glacier area
- GPS Coordinates: Latitude 48.79958, Longitude -113.67924
Parking is limited, with space for about 12-15 cars. Overflow parking is available near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn Restaurant.
Public transportation within Glacier National Park is limited, so most hikers drive to the trailhead or use shuttle services when available.
What Are Some Safety Considerations?
When hiking the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Check weather forecasts before starting your hike.
- Inform someone of your hiking plans.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially at higher elevations.
- Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in the area.
- Bring a headlamp or flashlight in case your hike takes longer than expected.
- Be aware of your physical limitations and turn back if necessary.
How Can I Minimize My Impact on the Environment?
To help preserve the beauty and integrity of Glacier National Park, follow these guidelines:
- Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect vegetation.
- Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items.
- Use established restroom facilities or practice proper backcountry waste disposal.
- Do not remove any natural objects, including rocks, plants, or artifacts.
- Keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing wildlife and other hikers.
- Use a camp stove instead of building fires if camping in the backcountry.
- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and not feeding animals.
By following these principles, you can help ensure that the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail and Glacier National Park remain pristine for future generations to enjoy.
Reference:
1. Ptarmigan Tunnel – Hiking in Glacier National Park
2. Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail – Enjoy Your Parks
3. Glacier National Park: hiking to Ptarmigan Tunnel
4. Ptarmigan Tunnel – Glacier National Park
5. Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail – AllTrails