Ptarmigan Falls, named for the creek by the same name from which it flows, is a cascading falls located within Glacier National Park, in Montana.
The creek is named for the northern grouse (bird) species, ptarmigans, a decorative-looking bird with feathered legs and beautiful plumage that typically changes from darker colors to white in the wintertime, thanks to its native Arctic habitat.
Ptarmigan Falls, Glacier County – Guide
Ptarmigan Falls may be seen from either hiking along Ptarmigan Trail or Iceberg Lake Trail. The trails run into each other north of the falls, so you may join Ptarmigan Trail from the north and hit Iceberg Lake for the journey south as they merge.
Ptarmigan Falls Stats
Ptarmigan Falls is a beautiful waterfall of 30+ feet with multiple cascades, falling along its course from Ptarmigan Creek. The waterfall is a backcountry fall that may only be reached via hiking.
- Location: Many Glacier Region, Glacier National Park, Glacier County, Montana
- Latitude: 48.82141
- Longitude: -113.71161
- Stream: Ptarmigan Creek
- Elevation: 5709 feet
- Height: Multiple cascades, one at least 30 feet
- Season: Spring to autumn
- Campgrounds and RV parks nearby: 20+ campgrounds located within the park or nearby, with hundreds of sites available
Recreational Activities Near Ptarmigan Falls
There’s plenty to do while visiting Glacier National Park, both on your way to Ptarmigan Falls and when you’re elsewhere within or nearby. From hiking and biking to whitewater rafting and swimming, it’ll be impossible to be bored.
Swimming
Many folks want to know, can you swim in Ptarmigan Falls? You really shouldn’t. Swimming in waterfalls can be a dangerous activity, thanks to the rushing undercurrent that can sweep you under and take you away.
It’s better to choose a quieter, calmer body of water, like one of the many lakes in the park. Some popular swimming locales in Glacier NP include St. Mary Lake, Lake Josephine, Bowman Lake, or Lake McDonald.
For those who love a remote, polar swim, one-the-way backcountry lakes like Lake Grinnell are a great choice. Just beware! When we say polar, we mean it! Many of the lakes in the park are created by glacier melt or mountain runoff, meaning the waters truly are frigid.
Boating
A popular recreation choice in Glacier NP is boating, thanks to the over 300 various bodies of water within the park boundaries.
Many of the rivers are perfect for canoeing or kayaking and many of the lakes welcome both human-powered and motorized boats. Take note of which lakes welcome motorboats, though if you decide to haul one in.
If you don’t have your own boat to bring, there are many companies and outfitters nearby who rent out boats and offer tours.
- Rentals and Tours and rentals from Many Glacier
- Rentals from Glacier Outfitters
- Rentals and Tours with Sea Me Paddle
White Water Rafting
A different way to see Glacier via boat is whitewater rafting. Many of the rivers are perfect for the exciting activity, no matter what your skill level.
If you’re familiar with the sport and have your own gear, you can find many access points for rivers throughout the park. For those without, you will find many offerings of trips and rides from local outfitters.
Be sure to choose the right trip package, though, by comparing the many choices and prices that could fit your budget and plans.
Some tours las