23 Aug Iceberg Lake Trail in Glacier National Park: Complete Guide

Imagine this. You wake up for your first full day in Glacier National Park just before sunrise. You exit your tent, do your morning routine, and then head to the Many Glacier area. As the sun begins to peak over the mountains, you begin your trek along the Iceberg Lake Trail. About two to two and a half hours later, you are met with views of the gorgeous blue waters of Iceberg Lake with a backdrop of majestic mountains. As you get closer, you can see there are some icebergs floating in the lake and some snow along the mountainside.

While this sounds like a dream, it was actually our reality for our first full day in Glacier National Park. The Iceberg Lake Trail was a perfect way to start our time in Glacier, for we could not have asked for better views. Moreover, the trail is not as hard as others, for example the Grinnell Glacier Trail or the Highline Trail. What more could you ask for? The Iceberg Lake Trail is a less difficult trail with just as good of (if not better) views than some of the other most popular trails in the park.

For another moderate trail leading to a lake with gorgeous views, check out the Avalanche Lake Trail along the Going to the Sun Road in West Glacier. On the other hand, check out some of the easier trails in Glacier, for example the Fishercap Lake Trail in Many Glacier.

Contents:

1) General Glacier National Park Information

2) Location of Iceberg Lake Trail

3) Best Time to Hike

4) Trail Directions and Scenery

5) Trail Length, Distance, and Difficulty

6) When You Reach Iceberg Lake

7) Bear Safety

8) Recommended Items to Bring

9) Nearby Attractions

1) General Glacier National Park Information

Glacier National Park, also known as the Crown of the Continent, is one of the most beautiful and desirable national parks in the US. Just about every time I see a friend post on social media when they return from Glacier, they claim it as their new favorite national park. Scroll through some pictures on Google (or visit for yourself), and you are sure to understand why.

The park is full of magnificent (and challenging) hiking trails, lakes with crystal clear or turquoise blue water, a vast variety of wildlife, and so much more. If Glacier is not already on your travel bucket list, you need to add it immediately. (And bump it up somewhere near the top).

For a fun fact, Glacier National Park in the US combined with Waterton National Park in Canada to form the first international peace park. The scenery of each national park does not end at the border, but instead the unique beauty of the parks transcend between countries. Moreover, the wildlife, for example bears, moose, and elk, call both of the parks home as they roam back and forth across the border.

Location of Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is located in northwestern Montana, just under 30 minutes from the Canadian border. The park can therefore be a bit difficult to access due to its location. There is no nearby, convenient airport like there is in Jackson Hole for Grand Teton.

Instead, the closest airports are the Kalispell City Airport at two hours southwest, the Great Falls International Airport at three hours southeast, and the Missoula Montana Airport at three and a half hours southwest. (I used Logan Pass as a calculation for the time from each airport to the park, but be aware the driving distance can be longer or shorter depending on your final destination in Glacier.)

Appreciating the scenery along the final portion of the Iceberg Lake Trail

Different Sections of Glacier – Most Visited

Honestly, some places online say there are five sections in Glacier National park while others say there are nine sections, etc. It is all a bit relative, for you can split up the park in a few different ways. My favorite way to split up the park is into five sections: (1) Two Medicine (2) Many Glacier (3) Going to the Sun Road (4) North Fork (5) Goat Haunt. I might be a bit biased, but I think looking at the park with five sections is the easiest way to comprehend it.

First, the Going to the Sun Road spans from the eastern to the western side of the park. This is the section that people often break down into more sections. For example, there is the town of St. Mary at the eastern edge, Rising Sun just 15 minutes west from there, Logan Pass near the middle of the road, Lake McDonald near the western edge, and Apgar Village also near the western edge. Moreover, this is the busiest and most popular section of the park, especially around Logan Pass. Along the Going to the Sun Road you can find attractions such as the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail, Highline Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail.

Second, Many Glacier is located in the eastern section of the park, just a bit north of the Going to the Sun Road. This section is fairly popular, for it is where you can access the trailhead to one of the park’s most popular trails: Grinnell Glacier Trail. Another trail that has less hype but just as gorgeous of views is the one and only Iceberg Lake Trail.

Different Sections of Glacier – Least Visited

Third, Two Medicine is located in the southeastern corner of the park. Due to its location, it is not as crowded as the other sections. People will often completely skip visiting this area if they only have a day or two inside the park. I would agree that you should skip this area if you are limited on time. On the other hand, check out the Running Eagle Falls Trail and the South Shore Trail to Paradise Point if you have time to stop here.

Fourth, North Fork is located in the western section of the park. It is just north of the Going to the Sun Road. However, North Fork is not as popular of an area due to the fact it is more difficult to access. If you do make it up that way, I recommend you at least hike to Bowman Lake.

Fifth, Goat Haunt is located in the northern section of the park. Actually, it is right along the Canadian border. This is the least accessed area of the park due to the fact you have only two options to reach it. First, you can go on an overnight backpacking trip from Glacier. Second, you can take a scenic cruise from Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada.

Opening Hours of Glacier National Park

Time for some good news! Glacier National Park is open to visitors 24/7, every single day of the year. However, do not get too excited just yet. Due to its location in northern Montana, it can receive a lot of snow in the winter. That being said, a lot of the roads within the park close for the winter season. They normally start to close roads beginning in the late fall. Nevertheless, the one road that (usually) remains open the entire year and is plowed by park officials is the portion of the Going to the Sun Road from West Glacier to Lake McDonald Lodge.

While this is not a large section of the park, it is still better than nothing. Maybe you can only visit during the winter. Or maybe you love the snow and want to take advantage of some winter skiing or snowshoeing.

I started with some good news, but now time for some bad news. If you visit in the winter, you will not be able to drive to the Iceberg Lake Trail. The Many Glacier Road that leads to the trailhead usually closes in the late fall, specifically November, due to weather conditions. It then reopens in the late spring, specifically around late April or early May.

Entrance Pass for Glacier National Park

First, you MUST have a valid entrance pass to enter Glacier National Park. Similar to almost every other national park in the US, Glacier requires you to obtain an entrance pass to access their park. The pass is $35 per private vehicle. See the nps.gov Glacier webpage for more information on the fees for other vehicle types, for example a motorcycle. As a bonus, they now offer the option of purchasing digital passes in addition to the physical passes offered at the entrance stations and visitor centers.

View of Iceberg Lake from the shore

Furthermore, do not think that you can sneak into the park without an entrance pass if you enter around 5am and there is no one at the entrance station. No matter when or where you enter the park, you are required to pay the entrance fee. If no one is at the entrance station, there will be a sign with information on how to pay the fee. Think about it this way – you are paying to help protect and preserve the park for years to come.

On the other hand, you can purchase an annual park pass for $80. I definitely recommend you buy this pass if you plan to visit three or more national parks within one year. For example, maybe you also have a trip planned to Zion National Park to hike Angels Landing or to Acadia National Park to watch the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain. Buying this pass can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Vehicle Reservations for Glacier National Park

Second, you also MUST have a vehicle reservation to access most of the sections of Glacier National Park between 6am and 3pm from around the end of May to the middle of September. The four sections of Glacier that require a separate vehicle reservation are North Fork, Two Medicine, Many Glacier, and Going to the Sun Road.

You cannot just purchase one vehicle reservation and be good to go for all areas of the park. Nope. Instead, you have to purchase a separate reservation for each area, though they are only $2 each. For example, you need to purchase a Many Glacier vehicle reservation for the Iceberg Lake Trail. Check out the nps.gov Glacier webpage for more information on vehicle reservations and the exact dates they are required for each area of the park.

I know, this sounds like a lot. But the park is doing what they can to protect the area for many years to come. They want people to be able to visit tomorrow. Nevertheless, they also want them to be able to visit 50 to 100 years from now.

On the other hand, one way to skirt around the vehicle pass regulation is to enter the park areas before 6am or after 3pm. You are able to enter freely at those times.

View of Iceberg Lake from the trail

2) Location of Iceberg Lake Trail

Where is the Iceberg Lake Trail located? In what section of Glacier National Park is the Iceberg Lake Trail? 

The trailhead for Iceberg Lake is located in Many Glacier, which means you will need an entrance pass as well as a vehicle reservation. As a note, it shares the trailhead with the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail. The Many Glacier Area is in the eastern section of Glacier National Park. For reference, it is around 30 minutes north from the beginning of the Going to the Sun Road. Moreover, it is just over an hour north from Logan Pass. Plan accordingly if you want to drive here in the early morning. The drive can be a bit long depending on from which area of the park you are originating.

Something to keep in mind is that cell service is not reliable near Iceberg Lake nor anywhere in Glacier National Park. I downloaded an offline version of Glacier National Park on Google Maps before I visited, and I recommend you do the same.

Parking at the Iceberg Lake Trailhead

First and foremost, please note that this is a popular trail. Parking can thus fill up pretty quickly. More specifically, parking is often full by mid morning and stays full through the late afternoon. As mentioned previously, Iceberg Lake and Ptarmigan Tunnel share a trailhead. Hikers for both trails are thus trying to park in the same location.

The main parking area is located right by the trailhead, and it is more of a pull-off area rather than an entire parking lot. There is room for around 10 to 15 cars. While you can see a lot of other parking nearby due to the cabins, this parking is generally reserved specifically for those holding cabin reservations.

Additionally, there is a large parking lot by the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and Fishercap Lake Trailhead. You can park here and then walk five to 10 minutes to reach the trailhead for Iceberg Lake.

We arrived around 6:45am in August, and the main parking area by the trailhead was already 75% full. It was then entirely full when we finished the trail around 11:30am.

View of the mountains and canyon from Iceberg Lake

Amenities at the Iceberg Lake Trailhead

Please be aware that there are no restrooms directly at the trailhead. We found this out the hard way when we arrived and did not see a restroom in sight. However, there are cabins within eyesight of the trailhead. We assumed that where there are cabins, there is a building with restrooms nearby. We were correct, for we found a restroom building about five minutes from the trailhead. I cannot remember exactly where the restrooms are located. We just wandered around the cabins until we found them.

Additionally, there are two pit toilets along the trail. One is located around the halfway mark while the other is pretty close to the lake.

Camping and Lodging near Iceberg Lake

First, let me note that there is no overnight camping allowed on the Iceberg Lake Trail or at the lake itself. Nevertheless, there are other options if you have your heart set on camping. The Many Glacier Campground is within walking distance of the trail. Moreover, you would not even have to worry about the whole parking mess if you camped here.

The second closest Glacier National Park campground is the St. Mary Campground just 37 minutes southeast. We stayed here during our stay, and it was a great experience. Additionally, we loved the location of this campground because it is within only a 30 to 45-minute drive of a majority of the park’s most popular attractions.

If your heart is set on having a real bed at night, then the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn is the way to go. You will also be within walking distance of the trail if you stay here. The closest you can get to luxury lodging in the area is the Cozy Duck Lake Cabin or St. Mary Village.

Standing along the shore at Iceberg Lake

3) Best Time to Hike 

When is the best time to hike the Iceberg Lake Trail? 

I will try to keep it short and sweet. The best time to begin hiking the Iceberg Lake Trail is before 8am or after 4pm. Plan accordingly, though, for the average hiker needs a little over four hours to complete the trail. You do not want to be hiking back in the dark since this is grizzly territory.

Parking can be a bit difficult for the trail. Therefore, it is best if you can snag a spot earlier or later in the day. You might have to circle around a couple of times (or more than a couple of times) to find a spot anywhere from the mid morning to the late afternoon.

Moreover, the temperature will be more moderate if you begin the hike in the early morning or evening. There is a fair amount of elevation gain along the trail (1,460 feet or ~445 meters). You will be sweating even without any sun in the sky. Trust me, for I was sweating and had to take my jacket off as I was hiking along the trail around 7:30am.

When is the Best Season to Hike the Iceberg Lake Trail? 

I mentioned above in section one that the road to Many Glacier closes in late November and does not reopen until April or May. You therefore cannot hike to Iceberg Lake during those months.

That being said, the best seasons to hike to Iceberg Lake are the summer and fall. More specifically, the best months are from July through September. Snow can sometimes remain on the trail until the early summer in June. If you wait another month until July, you are likely to be rewarded with a mostly or completely snow-free trail.

View from the shore at Iceberg Lake

4) Trail Directions and Scenery

How do I reach the trailhead for Iceberg Lake?

As mentioned previously, the trailhead for Iceberg Lake is located in Many Glacier. If you are lucky enough to grab a parking spot right by the trailhead, you can immediately begin hiking. Otherwise, you have to park in the larger parking lot in front of the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and walk to the trailhead.

While I include detailed instructions for the trail below, it is fairly easy to follow. There are signs pointing you in the correct direction. Moreover, you can always refer to google maps (as long as you downloaded an offline map of the park) to see where the trail heads next.

Directions Until the Iceberg – Ptarmigan Split

Just one minute (or 66 feet; ~20 meters) after starting the trail, you will come to a fork in the park. Already? Yes, there are quite a few forks at the beginning. But do not worry, the directions get easier. At the first fork, bear right onto the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail. Then after another minute (or 110 feet; ~34 meters), bear left onto the Ptarmigan Cutoff Trail. This is where the trail begins to have some elevation gain. Hike up your sleeves and get to hiking. I had to remove some layers as I started sweating almost immediately. For the first 0.25 miles (~0.4 kilometers) of the trail, there is 200 feet (~61 meters) in elevation gain.

The next fork in the path comes three minutes (or 490 feet; ~150 meters) later. Keep left on the Ptarmigan Cutoff / Iceberg Ptarmigan Trail. Then two minutes (0.1 miles; 0.16 kilometers) later, keep left to continue on the Ptarmigan Cutoff / Iceberg Ptarmigan Trail.

Now it gets a lot easier – keep hiking straight! There is not another fork in the park until you reach the point where the Iceberg Lake and Ptarmigan Tunnel Trails split.

Additionally, there is a waterfall of fairly decent size known as Ptarmigan Falls at the 2.5 mile (~four kilometer) marker on the trail. However, it is partially hidden by the trees. Some people hike the trail and stop at the waterfall before reaching Iceberg Lake. Nevertheless, I would not recommend stopping at the waterfall. It does not even compare to the beauty found at Iceberg Lake.

For waterfall-specific trails, check out Running Eagle Falls in Two Medicine or St. Mary and Virginia Falls along the Going to the Sun Road.

Map of the beginning portion of the Iceberg Lake Trail

Map of the entire Iceberg Lake Trail

Directions After the Iceberg – Ptarmigan Split

At the 2.6 mile (4.2 kilometer) marker, the trail splits. You then have to decide whether you want to continue to Iceberg Lake or Ptarmigan Tunnel. My vote is obviously for Iceberg Lake! A solo hiker who joined us said they had done Ptarmigan Tunnel previously. However, they felt as though Iceberg Lake was less difficult and had even better views.

Keep left to continue to Iceberg Lake. Then hike another 2.1 miles (~3.4 kilometers) to reach the lake. Sounds easy, right? Well, maybe not. But all of the miles are worth the view at the end.

What Scenery is on the Trail to Iceberg lake? 

The Iceberg Lake Trail half winds through the canyon with open views and half winds through a forest with blocked views. The canyon views are incredible, for you can see mountains with snow on them if you look up. The mountains include Mt. Wilbur, Mt. Grinnell, and Swiftcurrent Mountain. On the other hand, you can look down into the valley to search for wildlife.

While the view at Iceberg Lake is obviously the highlight of the trail, the views along the trail should not be overlooked. They are quite stunning, so take a break from hiking to look at the views even if you do not physically need a break.

All of that being said, plan to be out in the open (aka out in the sun if it is not too cloudy) for more than half of the trail plus at the lake.

What Wildlife is on the Trail to Iceberg lake? 

First and foremost, the Iceberg Lake Trail is within an area frequented by bears. For example, there was a sign along the trail when we visited that said it was a “bear frequenting area”. Moreover, a friend we met along the way said the Iceberg Lake Trail was closed the two previous times they visited due to bear activity.

Nevertheless, we did not see any bears the day we hiked. However, we did see one moose down in the valley. It was quite far away, but it was still cool to say we saw one. Additionally, we saw a deer just a couple of feet off of the trail.

Hiking back along the trail from Iceberg Lake

5) Trail Length, Distance, and Difficulty

How long is the trail to Iceberg Lake? 

The Iceberg Lake Trail is a 9.6 mile (~15.4 kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 1,460 feet (445 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in around four hours and 15 minutes. We hiked to the lake in around two hours and hiked back in around one hour and 50 minutes. We also spent 20 or 30 minutes by the lake. That being said, I recommend you plan at least four and a half hours in your itinerary for the trail.

Moreover, it is considered to be a moderate trail. While there is a fair amount of elevation gain, it is spread out over a few miles.

Is the Iceberg Lake Trail Family Friendly?

That being said, this is not the most family friendly hike in Glacier National Park. Young children might struggle with the elevation gain and/or the distance. Additionally, pets are not allowed on any trails within the park.

The Iceberg Lake Trail is mainly a dirt and gravel trail with some larger rocks here and there. Be sure to watch your step so that you do not accidentally trip or lose your footing. There are no technical aspects to this trail, so you do not have to worry about that.

How Challenging is the Iceberg Lake Trail?

In total, the elevation gain along the trail is 1,460 feet (445 meters). The beginning of the trail has some of the steepest elevation gain. I had to take off all of my layers at this point because I was already sweating (and it was only 7:30am or so). For example, there is 200 feet (~61 meters) in elevation gain on the first 0.25 miles (~0.4 kilometers) of the trail.

Thankfully the trail evens out a bit more after that, for the elevation gain becomes more slow and steady. As you reach the end of the trail near the lake, there is one more section of elevation gain before you then hike downhill for a couple minutes to reach the lakeshore.

View of Iceberg Lake from the trail

6) When You Reach Iceberg Lake

Is hiking to Iceberg Lake worth it? 

The lake appears into view near the end of the trail, and you will not believe your eyes. You might be so excited at this point that you practically run the last couple of minutes on the trail to reach the lakeshore. How can a lake possibly have this color of beautiful blue waters? And how can it be backed by such a majestic and grand mountain?

However, take a moment to appreciate the view before you reach the lakeshore. More specifically, there is one large rock to the left of the trail shortly after the lake comes into view that provides a perfect spot for some photography.

Furthermore, the lake was so windy the day we visited. It was so windy that I felt as though the wind was pushing me over when I was standing on a rock for a picture.

Staring in awe at the beauty of Iceberg Lake

Around the Lakeshore

There is one large, main opening directly at the end of the trail by the lakeshore. However, it is possible for this area to get crowded as more and more people finish the trail. Nevertheless, there are a bunch of little trails all around the shore of Iceberg Lake. You can take one or more of these trails to find a more private spot. Trust me, there is plenty of room around the lake for everyone. It might just take you a minute or two to find it.

Moreover, you can walk along these trails to view Iceberg Lake from all angles.

What are the Views Like at Iceberg Lake?

Iceberg Lake sometimes has icebergs in its waters, especially on the brink of the colder months. It is pretty easy to now guess how the lake received its name. Additionally, there is snow visible on the mountain directly behind the lake. Keep this in mind if you plan to swim or even dip your toes in the water. The water is cold, and thus you need to be prepared and have someone act as your lifeguard in case anything goes wrong. Your body can go into shock if it experiences too drastic of a change of temperature in a short period of time.

The mountain directly behind the lake is known as Mt. Wilbur. Moreover, the peak to the west of the lake (or directly behind it if you are approaching the lake from the trail) is Iceberg Peak. This mountain range holds Ahern Glacier. While the glacier is shrinking, it is still one of the larger glaciers within the park.

It was pretty cloudy the day we visited. Nevertheless, we stayed around the lake long enough to see the sun peak through the clouds onto the mountainside and the water every now and then.

View from the shore at Iceberg Lake

7) Bear Safety

Glacier National Park exists in bear territory, and this includes both black bears and grizzlies. Iceberg Lake Trail and the nearby area often has a high concentration of bears. For reference, a solo hiker who tagged along with us said they were unable to hike this trail the previous two times they tried due to the fact it was closed for bear activity.

While we did not see any bears as we hiked along the trail, it is always a possibility.

How do I Prepare for Hiking in Bear Territory?

Here are some important bear safety tips provided by the National Park Service. First, never approach a bear. They are wild animals, and their behavior cannot be predicted. Second, maintain a distance of at least 100 yards (~90 meters) from bears at all times.

Third, make noise while you are hiking. When bears hear noise, they will then generally walk in the opposite direction. The National Park Service recommends calling out and clapping as effective noise measures. Fourth, hike with a group of people. If you are a solo traveler, then make some friends with people you meet on the trail. Fifth, do what you can to not surprise a bear. This includes making noise, avoiding hiking in the dark, not running along a trail, etc. Sixth, carry bear spray (and know how to use it). If a bear attacks, bear spray is one of the best methods to deter them. 

Check out the NPS webpage on bear safety for more information.

View of the mountains from the Iceberg Lake Trail

What To Do if I Encounter a Bear Along a Trail?

It is important that you know what to do if you encounter a bear while hiking along the trail. Sometimes you can take all of the precautions above but still have an unexpected encounter. If you see a bear ahead along the trail, get out of the bear’s path and let it continue walking. However, sometimes bears might be a bit more curious or defensive towards hikers.

A bear is likely agitated if they sway their head, lay back their ears, clack their teeth, lower their head, or huff. On the other hand, actions such as standing on their hind legs or approaching you are not necessarily acts of aggression. The bear might just be curious at that point. You can then talk in a quiet, calm voice as you slowly back away. Additionally, do not look the bear directly in the eyes. If the bear appears to become agitated as you back away, then stop moving.

If the bear continues to approach you without any indicators of agitation as mentioned above, then have your group huddle together and make noise. At this point, you should get your bear spray ready to use in case it becomes necessary.

If the bear continues to approach you with indicators of agitation as mentioned above, then talk quietly, do not run, and prepare to use your bear spray. Most bear sprays will spray up to 30 feet (~nine meters).

What To Do if a Bear Attacks Without Bear Spray?

In the unfortunate scenario that a bear is about to attack and you do not have any bear spray, then you need to prepare your body. Fall to the ground on your stomach as you hold your hands behind your neck. As much as possible, do not let the bear turn you over onto your back.

The bear will most likely then leave you alone if they are attacking out of defense once they determine you are not a threat. If the bear continues to attack you, then you should fight back.

Trying not to get blown over by the wind at Iceberg Lake

8) Recommended Items to Bring

What should I pack for a day hike in Glacier National Park? What should I bring on the Iceberg Lake Trail? 

1. Water bottle: Definitely bring water with you while hiking the Iceberg Lake Trail. Consider a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. They also keep your water cooler due to their insulation – bonus!

2. Bathing suit + travel towel: You might be thinking, why would I need a bathing suit on this trail? The name is Iceberg, after all. Some people will take a dip in the lake while others just dip their toes in. I am pretty sure you already know this – but the water is cold. However, the views make up for the temperature.

Hygiene

3. Sunscreen: While this might not be as important on a cloudy day, it will be on a day full of beautiful clear skies. Walking around even for just 30 minutes can lead to sunburn if you have fair skin. The trail is partially shaded as it runs through a forest. However, around half of the trail is either in partial or full sun. Moreover, you will be in full sun once you reach the lakeshore. 

4. Bug spray: Let’s be honest – mosquitos, gnats, and any other little type of fly can ruin an experience. You cannot truly enjoy an attraction if you are swatting away bugs from your face the whole time. Therefore, be prepared with bug spray or a mosquito repellent bracelet.

View of Iceberg Lake from the trail

Hiking Items for the Iceberg Lake Trail

5. Bear spray: Glacier National Park, including the Iceberg Lake Trail, is located in grizzly territory. You thus need to practice bear safety, which includes carrying a can of bear spray. Hopefully you will not have to use it, but it is better to be prepared. 

6. Hiking shoes: A pair of hiking shoes will be incredibly helpful as you hike along. Hiking shoes are generally not cheap, though I will say they are well worth the investment. They provide grip and traction to help you out while hiking as well as to keep you safe. The Iceberg Lake Trail has some sections with steep elevation gain. Moreover, the trail has some loose rocks as well as larger rocks. Hiking shoes will help you make it to the lake as easily and safely as possible.

7. Hiking poles: Bring along a set of hiking poles if you want some extra support on the trail. You have to endure a fair amount of elevation gain to reach Iceberg Lake. Hiking poles can offer a big assist, especially if you deal with chronic knee problems. 

8. Binoculars: We did not bring binoculars on any of our hikes in Glacier, and that was a mistake. Other people were using their binoculars to spot wildlife while we just had to stand there, squint, and still not see anything.

9. Optional – crampons: These are only necessary if there is snow or ice along the trail. Crampons are spikes that attach to the bottom of shoes.

View of the mountain behind Iceberg Lake from the trail

Camping Items

10. Amflip Pop-Up Camping Tent: If you do not want to spend time fighting with poles to set up a tent, then just buy this pop-up tent. My partner and I could set up the tent in around five minutes, and it was incredibly easy to do so. Moreover, the tent held up pretty well in the rain, for we experienced multiple hours of downpours during our trip. No rain ever entered from the top, though some did seep in from the bottom (mainly due to our campsite and the fact the ground was uneven).

11. AmazonBasics Waterproof Camping Tarp: We also brought a tarp to add a layer between our tent and the ground. However, you can also hang up the tarp so that you protect the whole tent from the elements.

12. Elegear Double Sleeping Pad: Our favorite thing about this sleeping pad is that it has a foot pump. We thus did not have to worry about bringing an extra air pump along. Not only was that a big convenience factor, but it also helped us maintain our goal of visiting Glacier National Park on a budget. Moreover, there is a built-in “pillow” section at the top.

13. Sleepingo Double Sleeping Bag: We would have been freezing at night without our sleeping bag. The national parks can get quite cold at night, even in the summertime. Moreover, we love how this sleeping bag comes with two pillows.

Amflip Pop-Up Camping Tent set up in Glacier National Park

9) Nearby Attractions

One thing to note about the Iceberg Lake Trail (and all trails within Glacier National Park) is that they can be closed at any time due to bear activity. Crossing my fingers that the trail will not be closed when you arrive. However, under the unfortunate circumstances that it is closed, it is best to have a back-up plan. The bears do not adhere to anyone’s schedule but their own, so there is really no way to determine when a trail will be closed and/or for how long.

One additional thing to note – it can be difficult to tell if the entire trail to Iceberg Lake is closed from the trailhead. Sometimes the beginning portion of the trail will be open, yet it will then be closed around the 2.6 mile (~4.2 kilometer) mile marker. This is where the Iceberg Lake and Ptarmigan Tunnel Trails break off from one another. I recommend talking with a ranger for the most current information.

All of the below attractions are located in the Many Glacier area. They are thus within a short walk or drive of the Iceberg Lake Trailhead. You can even do one or more of the attractions listed below and then head back to Iceberg Lake to see if the trail has reopened.

I also have to give a shoutout to Nell’s Restaurant in Many Glacier. We had a delicious dish of mac n cheese with pulled chicken, fried onions, and barbecue sauce.

Photographing the view along the Iceberg Lake Trail

Additional Many Glacier Attractions

First, the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail runs along the same route as the Iceberg Lake Trail until it bears right at the 2.6 mile (~4.2 kilometer) marker. The Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail is a 10.6 mile (~17 kilometer) trail with approximately 2,360 feet (~720 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in five and a half hours. It is considered to be a challenging route. A solo hiker who tagged along with us for Iceberg Lake said that while the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail was nice, it was much more difficult and did not have as nice of a view at the end.

Second, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail is a 2.6 mile (~4.2 kilometer) loop trail with approximately 130 feet (~40 meters) in elevation gain. The trail runs briefly through a forest before reaching Swiftcurrent Lake and then looping around its shore. Moreover, it passes by the Many Glacier Lodge. Check out the gift shop or grab a bite to eat. This is a great trail if you are looking for a shorter, easier hike.

Third, the Fishercap Lake Trail is a 0.8 mile (~1.3 kilometer) loop trail with approximately 20 feet (~six meters) in elevation gain. The trail mainly runs through the forest before reaching the shore of Fishercap Lake. People say this is a great place to spot wildlife, for example moose. However, we realized that seeing any sort of wildlife is quite random. We did not see any moose along this trail, even though we hiked it at prime time in the evening. This is another great option for a short, easy hike that is also family friendly.

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After your time in Glacier, head west to North Cascades: Day Trip from Seattle to North Cascades National Park.

Need some more convincing to plan a visit?: Reasons to Visit North Cascades National Park.