How to Hike to Iceberg Lake in Glacier National Park + Tips & FAQs

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When exploring the outdoors, I encourage you to follow Leave No Trace Principles and be respectful of where you are so we can preserve these spaces for future generations. ♥️

Planning on taking on the Iceberg Lake hike in Glacier National Park?

Hiking to Iceberg Lake has been on my list for years, and I finally got the opportunity to do so with Daniel last year. If you are wondering whether or not it looks the same as it does on social media, I am happy to report that the color of the water is that same aquamarine color you see online–and it is just as stunning as you would expect.

One thing I will say about Iceberg is that is does require a little planning to get to–especially since the parking lot where you catch the trailhead at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn can be pretty packed. This means that if you don’t have a plan to get there early, you might have to consider another hike.

It’s well worth making a little extra effort to get there early, and knowing whether or not you want to add the Ptarmigan Tunnel as an additional hike can change how you plan your adventure. Plus, the Many Glacier area has required reservations for entry over the past few years, which can make getting to the trailhead a bit more challenging than simply driving in.

I’ve got you covered in this guide on Iceberg, including what you need to know in order to get there, how long you should expect to be on the trail, and more.

In summary: You’ll learn the basics on how to hike to Iceberg Lake, as well as answers to common questions that I often hear when visitors are planning to add this hike to their list.

Quick tip: If you can’t get a parking spot immediately, don’t fret! It’s worth it to circle around for a while since patience will likely be rewarded.

Iceberg Lake Hike: Quick Stats

How to hike to Iceberg Lake

You’ll begin the Iceberg Lake hike at the trailhead located behind the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, at the end of Many Glacier Road. The only way to access this inn is via the Many Glacier Entrance station, but it is an easy straight shot from there. The trailhead is located slightly beyond the inn.

Do keep in mind that for 2024, you will need to have a ticket for entry to enjoy Many Glacier. I recommend you check out my guide on Glacier National Park reservations so you can plan accordingly–there are ways around the system, but it’s better to have knowledge of it so you can make sure you get the hikes in Glacier you want in.

Almost immediately upon entering the trail to Iceberg Lake in Glacier, you’ll come across an intersection. Here you’ll want to turn right and then keep to the left to stay on the Ptarmigan Cutoff, a short connector trail that leads to the Ptarmigan Trail and the junction for Iceberg Lake.

This trail is quite steep, gaining about 200 feet in elevation in less than a quarter of a mile. However, it is short, so you’ll quickly find yourself back on much more level ground.

When you come to the intersection with the Ptarmigan Trail, you’ll want to turn left and head out in the direction of Iceberg Lake. This part of the trail offers incredible views of several mountains, including Mount Grinnell, Swiftcurrent Mountain, Mount Wilbur, as well as the Ptarmigan Wall.

In addition to this, the area is prime bear country, especially for grizzly bears. So you’ll want to keep an eye out for them as you walk along this trail section, especially the first mile or so. If you can, it’s always a good idea to bring bear spray, make lots of noise, and travel in groups while hiking in this area. I also recommend that you check in with the park rangers on the status of the trail before heading out, as the trail has been known to close from time to time due to high levels of bear activity.

At approximately 2.5 miles into the hike, you’ll come across a clearing that overlooks the Ptarmigan Falls. This view isn’t completely open, given the tree growth in the area, but it is the best view of the falls in the park, so be sure to check it out. Shortly after this, you’ll cross a footbridge and will arrive at the junction between Ptarmigan Trail and Iceberg Lake trail. You’ll want to follow the path straight ahead to continue on to Iceberg Lake.

Over the next two miles, you’ll hike through dense forest and open fields, catching glimpses of the Ptarmigan Wall, snowfields, and Iceberg Lake. Once you’re about 4.5 miles into the hike, you’ll cross another footbridge and will begin a short climb followed by a quick descent down to the shores of Iceberg Lake. Here you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the lake set against the backdrop of Mount Wilbur and the Continental Divide.

Quick tip: This is another area where bear sightings are common, so I definitely encourage you to make noise and have your bear spray in hand.

Depending upon the time of the year, you may even see icebergs in the lake. If you come in the spring or early summer, you’ll most likely be able to catch sight of an iceberg or two floating around in the lake.

Take some time to explore the lake shore and have a picnic lunch here if you want. I waded in the water with Daniel, but keep in mind that it is super cold–even during the hottest summer months! Once you are done exploring, you’ll head back the way you came to get to the trailhead parking lot.

Tips for hiking to Iceberg Lake

Here are some tips that I personally found helpful when hiking to Iceberg, as well as a few general tips for hiking in Glacier.

• Start early: Beat the crowds and increase your chances of spotting wildlife by starting your hike early in the morning. This also ensures you have ample time to complete the hike and enjoy the scenery without rushing.
• Prepare for changing weather: Weather in Glacier National Park can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and carry waterproof gear. Even in summer, mornings can be chilly, and weather can shift unexpectedly, so knowing what to pack can be crucial.
• Bear safety: This area is frequented by bears. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and make noise as you hike to avoid surprise encounters. Always keep food stored properly.
• Photography opportunities: For the photographers, the best light for photos at Iceberg Lake is typically in the early morning or late afternoon. The sun can be very strong during other times of the day.
• Leave No Trace: Help preserve the natural beauty of Iceberg Lake by following Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you bring in, stay on designated trails, and keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter.

Map of the Iceberg Lake Hike

Iceberg Lake Hike: FAQs

Here are some questions I often get from readers and clients looking to take on Iceberg Lake on their Glacier National Park itinerary.

Conclusion: Iceberg Lake

Personally, Iceberg is now one of my favorite hikes in Glacier, and while there are plenty of other amazing options in the park and in the Many Glacier area specifically, I would recommend putting this on your list for sure.

I’ve tried to include the information you need to help you plan your hike, as well as some tips so it is a success. Remember to watch out for bears and get to the parking lot early if you can so you can start out the day early and enjoy the rest of the day in Many Glacier!

Have any questions about hiking to Iceberg? Let me know in the comments!