Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail
This hike starts in open terrain, providing excellent mountain views.
Plan Around Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail
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Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail Details
This hike starts in open terrain, providing excellent mountain views. About 2.5 miles in you'll reach an overlook where you can see Ptarmigna Falls. This is a busy trail, but most people head to Iceberg Lake instead of turning off for the Ptarmigan Tunnel. When you emerge from the tree line you'll see the Ptarmigan Wall, a ridge of rock that separates two glacially carved valleys. You pass a series of waterfalls and Ptarmigan Lake. Look for big horn sheep and mountain goats. The final climb might seem daunting, but when you reach the top you'll get a spectacular view. The Civilian Conservation Corps built the 240-foot tunnel in the 1930s for horses and early park tours. Walking through the tunnel offers dramatically different views. Bears are known to frequent this area so make sure you carry bear spray, make noise and travel in groups. Access is via the Iceberg Lake Trailhead, near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn.
Difficulty
High
Distance
5 miles
Estimated time
6.25 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail
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Nearby Points of Interest Around Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Ptarmigan Falls Trail
This hike starts near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn.
0.0 mi away
Ptarmigan Lake Trail
The hike starts in open terrain, providing excellent mountain views.
0.0 mi away
Iceberg Lake Trail
This popular trail climbs to a high mountain cirque that is home to Iceberg Lake.
0.1 mi away
Redrock Falls Trail
The first stop on this hike should be Fishercap Lake.
0.1 mi away
Swiftcurrent Pass Trail
This challenging hike takes you by several alpine lakes and offers incredible mountain views from almost 7,000 feet.
