Ptarmigan Tunnel Glacier National Park
A historic 250-foot trail tunnel carved through a mountain, offering dramatic views of two distinct valleys.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Ptarmigan Tunnel Glacier National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 250-foot trail tunnel carved through a mountain, offering dramatic views of two distinct valleys.
"Pictures don’t do it justice – if you’re willing and able, I wouldn’t miss this hike."
Carry Bear Spray! :bear:
Essential for this trail due to frequent wildlife sightings.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed :athletic_shoe:
The trail is strenuous with constant elevation gain. Good footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ptarmigan Tunnel
Ptarmigan Wall
A historic 250-foot trail tunnel carved through a sheer mountain wall, offering dramatic views.
Belly River Valley Views
East of the tunnel
Discover a new world of breathtaking vistas opening up on the other side of the tunnel.
Many Glacier Valley Vistas
West of the tunnel
Experience unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Tunnel: A Strenuous but Rewarding Hike
Wildlife Encounters & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Bear Spray! :bear:
Essential for this trail due to frequent wildlife sightings.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed :athletic_shoe:
The trail is strenuous with constant elevation gain. Good footwear is a must.
Combine with Iceberg Lake :lake:
For a longer adventure, link Ptarmigan Tunnel with Iceberg Lake for a 15-mile hike.
Pack Plenty of Water :droplet:
This is a long hike, so stay hydrated throughout your journey.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Bear Spray! :bear:
Essential for this trail due to frequent wildlife sightings.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed :athletic_shoe:
The trail is strenuous with constant elevation gain. Good footwear is a must.
Combine with Iceberg Lake :lake:
For a longer adventure, link Ptarmigan Tunnel with Iceberg Lake for a 15-mile hike.
Pack Plenty of Water :droplet:
This is a long hike, so stay hydrated throughout your journey.
Check Trail Conditions :information_desk:
Always verify current trail status before heading out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers consistently praise the Ptarmigan Tunnel trail for its unparalleled views and the immense sense of accomplishment it provides. While the constant, unforgiving grade is a significant challenge, the unique experience of hiking through the historic tunnel and discovering the vast Belly River Valley makes it a highly recommended adventure for those willing and able. Wildlife sightings add an extra layer of excitement for many.
"Be forewarned - this is not a hike lightly attempted, as the grade getting to the tunnel is pretty much constant and unforgiving. That said, it offers unparalleled views from the summit and a real sense of accomplishment upon finishing. Pictures don’t do it justice - if you’re willing and able I wouldn’t miss this hike while you’re in Glacier."
Reese Boynton
"The hike to the tunnel and the walk through is awesome. But even better is what you discover on the other side of the tunnel, opens up to a new world of views! I saw several moose and a mountain lion on the hike up. Other hikers reported black bears near the parking lot on the way back but I never spotted one.
Combined the Ptarmigan Tunnel trail with Iceberg Lake for a 15-mile hike with 3200+ feet of elevation gain. Took about 6 hours with stops to take pics and take in the views plus about 25 minutes just sitting at the lake.
I chose to hike this over Grinnell because I only had time to do one big hike without scrapping some other hikes I wanted to do. I do not regret it one bit. Absolutely stunning!"
FFKDTP1
"Awesome trail once you gain some elevation and get the views! Keep going you can make it!"
Michael Snyder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ptarmigan Tunnel trailhead is located in the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. Access typically involves driving to the Many Glacier Hotel parking lot. From there, the hike begins.
Parking at the Many Glacier trailhead can be very limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider using the park's shuttle system if available.
While the tunnel connects the Many Glacier and Belly River valleys, the most common approach for a day hike is from Many Glacier. Accessing from Belly River would involve a longer backcountry trek.
From the west entrance of Glacier National Park, take US-2 East to MT-49 North, then turn onto MT-89 North towards Babb. Follow signs for the Many Glacier Road.
The Many Glacier Road is a seasonal road and typically opens in late May or early June and closes in mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Always check the park's official website for current road status.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Glacier National Park entrance pass is required for all visitors. Passes can be purchased at park entrance stations or online in advance.
No, there is no separate fee to hike to the Ptarmigan Tunnel. Your Glacier National Park entrance pass covers access to all trails.
The Ptarmigan Tunnel is an outdoor feature and is accessible whenever the trail is open, typically from late June through September, weather permitting.
No, tickets are not required for the Ptarmigan Tunnel hike. It is an open trail accessible to all park visitors with an entrance pass.
The hiking season for Ptarmigan Tunnel usually begins in late June or early July, once the snow has melted sufficiently. Always check current trail conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Ptarmigan Tunnel is approximately 10.6 miles round trip and can take 5-8 hours, depending on your pace, stops for photos, and wildlife viewing.
The hike involves a significant elevation gain, around 2,362 to 3,200 feet, with the most challenging part being the final ascent to the tunnel.
Due to its length and constant elevation gain, it's considered a strenuous hike and may not be suitable for absolute beginners. Experienced hikers will find it rewarding.
You'll experience stunning views of both the Many Glacier Valley and the Belly River Valley. The tunnel itself offers a unique perspective.
There are typically no restrooms directly on the trail itself. Plan to use facilities at the trailhead before you begin your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley views, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget extra batteries!
The views from both sides of the tunnel are spectacular. The approach to the tunnel also offers dramatic mountain backdrops.
Drone usage is restricted in Glacier National Park. Check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
The tunnel itself is a man-made marvel carved into nature, offering a unique juxtaposition for striking photographs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do attempt it, start early, pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for a long day. The novelty of the tunnel itself can be a great motivator for kids. For a less strenuous option with similar stunning scenery, explore other family-friendly hikes in the Many Glacier area.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and plenty of water to avoid purchasing expensive options within the park. Consider camping in or near the park for more affordable accommodation. The immense natural beauty and challenging hike offer incredible value for money.
💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
+1Pack a picnic to enjoy at the tunnel or along the trail, and take advantage of the incredible photo opportunities. The remote feel of the Belly River Valley on the other side of the tunnel adds to the sense of discovery and adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Ptarmigan Tunnel's History
This 250-foot passage pierces the formidable Ptarmigan Wall at an elevation of 7,200 feet. Its creation was instrumental in connecting the Many Glacier Valley with the remote Belly River Valley, opening up new possibilities for exploration and backcountry access. The tunnel remains a testament to early 20th-century trail construction in national parks.
+1Today, the tunnel is a popular destination for hikers, offering a unique historical element to an already stunning trek. Walking through it provides a dramatic transition between two distinct and beautiful landscapes within the park.
Hiking the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail: What to Expect
Many hikers choose this trail over others like Iceberg Lake because it offers a different, equally spectacular experience. The reward for your effort is the breathtaking scenery on both sides of the tunnel. On one side, you have the familiar beauty of the Many Glacier Valley, and on the other, the expansive and less-traveled Belly River Valley unfolds before you.
+1Be prepared for a full day of hiking. It's recommended to start early to avoid the midday heat and potential afternoon thunderstorms. The trail can be combined with Iceberg Lake for an epic 15-mile day, but even as a standalone hike, Ptarmigan Tunnel offers a profound sense of accomplishment and unparalleled natural beauty.
+1Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
It's crucial to be bear-aware on this trail. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise as you hike, especially in areas with limited visibility, to avoid surprising any animals. Keeping a safe distance and never feeding wildlife are paramount for both your safety and the animals' well-being.
Beyond bears, keep an eye out for other fascinating creatures. Moose are often spotted grazing in meadows, and the chance of seeing a mountain lion adds an element of wildness to the trek. Remember that these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and observing them from a safe distance is part of the incredible experience.
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