Overview: Three Hikes in One: ICEBERG LAKE HIKE= 9.4mls R/T(+1150')or PTARMIGAN LAKE HIKE= 9.0mls R/T(+1714') or BOTH= 12.8mls R/T(+2441 AEG); Like the Grinnell Glacier Hike in this Many Glacier Section of Glacier NP, the Iceberg Lake Hike is very popular. In my opinion, doing "both" the Iceberg Lake and Ptarmigan Lake hike equals twice the fun and scenic beauty. These two Alpine Lake hikes begin and end from the same TH and take the same trail in paralleling Iceberg Creek/Ptarmigan Creek for 2.8mls before the trail intersection(Left for 1.9mls to Iceberg Lake at 6100' or Right for 1.7mls to Ptarmigan Lake at 6655'). Roaring Ptarmigan Falls comes into view over a bridge crossing at 2.6mls in. The views begin at the TH and before long there is a panoramic look up the Swiftcurrent Creek Valley all the way to Swiftcurrent Pass at 7195'. Bighorn Sheep, an occasional Bear, and the beautiful and unusual Glacier White Mountain Goats may be seen along these trails and at these two lake destinations.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
To hike From Saint Mary,MT: Drive 9 miles north on Hwy 89 to Babb,MT; Then Left Turn onto the Glacier NP entrance road to the Many Glacier Area; Continue on the GNP entrance road passing the park entrance/pay station and passing a signed Left turn for the Many Glacier Hotel; Continue going west on this Many Glacier entrance road to its end; Just past the General Store, turn Right on a narrow road that winds around the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn's cabins; Stay left on this road and follow the signs to the Iceberg Lake/Ptarmigan Lake TH parking area;
page created by Grasshopper on Jul 23 2008 1:54 pm
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