Ptarmigan Tunnel
Many Glacier, Glacier National Park
Address: | Continental Divide Trail, Browning, MT 59417, USA |
GPS: |
48°47'56.0"N 113°40'39.9"W Maps | Directions |
State: | Montana |
Trail Length: | 11.00 miles |
Trail Type: | Out & Back |
Hike Difficulty: | Intermediate |
Trails/Routes: | 10.5 mi |
Lakes Glaciers Trails Wildflowers National Park
Backpack and Hike
This trail takes vistors to one of the manmade features in Glacier National Park. The trailhead can be found by taking the Iceberg Lake trailhead, and following it until the trail junction past Ptarmigan Falls. At the trailhead, continue on the right as the trail progresses upwards into the mountain. About 1.6 miles from the trail junction, the trail will pass by Ptarmigan lake. From this point, the trail begins to climb via switchbacks up the Ptarmigan wall. This is probably the steepest and most difficult part of the trail. Once at the top of the switchbacks, hikers will see the steel doors which are the entrance to the tunnel.
The tunnel itself is about 240 ft long and was constructed in the mid 1930's. The idea was to create an easier way for more people to see the beautiful views available in this part of the park. It cuts through the mountain and opens up to views of Seaward Mountain and Elizabeth Lake. The tunnel was carved out by hand and explosives, and can fit horses through it, however riders will have to dismount. The tunnel is closed until mid-July and remains open until the beginning of October.
Visitors can either continue along the trail outside of the tunnel or turn around and head back down the trail. The mountains themselves are beautiful to see. On the south side of the Ptarmigan tunnel, visitors will be stunned at the deep red mountains which the tunnel was carved into. It is a longer hike, but definitely can be done in a day, or an overnight trip if continuing down the trail. Bears can be out along the trail, so be sure to pack along bear spray and other necessities.
More Information
Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read MoreDirections
From Many Glacier, Glacier National Park
- Head north toward Continental Divide Trail (0.3 mi)
- Turn left onto Rte 3 (0.9 mi)
- Turn right (253 ft)
- Turn rightDestination will be on the left(482 ft)
Trails
Distance ?
10.5 miles Round TripElevation Gain ?
2,322 feetReal Ascent ?
2,576 feetReal Descent ?
254 feetAvg Grade (5°)
8%Grade (-17° to 37°)
-31% to 75%Elevation differences are scaled for emphasis. While the numbers are accurate, the cut-away shown here is not to scale.
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