If you’ve been to Glacier National Park, you know that one of the best ways to spend a day there is by enjoying a nice, scenic, challenging hike. And while a trail with “tunnel” in the name might imply a rather dark and narrow experience, that’s not the case with the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail. This 10.7-mile trek offers amazing views, alpine lakes, views of Mt. Grinnell and Swiftcurrent Mountain, and a 250-foot tunnel.

The hike to Ptarmigan Tunnel begins near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn. There's a small parking lot next to the trailhead.
Larryflynn56 / TripAdvisor
The trail is located near Babb in the Wilbur Creek Valley.
The hike begins with a fairly steep climb, gaining about 185 feet in a quarter of a mile.
Leslie J. / TripAdvisor
But after that, the elevation gain is a lot less noticeable.
About 2.6 miles in, the tail will split. You'll want to take a left (heading right takes you to Iceberg Lake).
Larryflynn56 / TripAdvisor
That's when you'll see views of Mount Grinnell and Swiftcurrent Mountain, along with Ptarmigan Lake.

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Eventually, you'll see the entrance to the Ptarmigan Tunnel.
Brent Bourne / alltrails.com
The tunnel was built in 1930 by the Civilian Conservation Corp, allowing hikers to avoid a strenuous climb over the rough terrain between Many Glacier and the Belly River Valley.
The tunnel was carved out by steel jackhammers that pounded at each end until they met in the middle.
trinkd / TripAdvisor
The process was helped by dynamite, carving through a natural barrier known as the Ptarmigan Wall.
In 1975, steel doors were installed at both ends of the tunnel.
Megan0409 / TripAdvisor
The doors remain open for most of the year.
When you exit the tunnel, you'll be treated to views of Natoas Peak, Crosley Ridge, and Elizabeth Lake.
Larryflynn56 / TripAdvisor
The trail is typically open from early July until early October, so add it to your summer bucket list.

Th Ptarmigan Tunnel is one of many things to appreciate about Glacier National Park, which is known as the Crown Jewel of the Continent.

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