Where Icebergs Float in Summer
Iceberg Lake is exactly what it sounds like, a stunning turquoise glacial lake where actual icebergs float in the crystal-clear water, even in the middle of July. The lake sits in a massive natural amphitheater, surrounded on three sides by near-vertical 3,000-foot cliffs that shelter snow and ice year-round. Chunks of ice calve from the permanent snowfields above and drift across the lake's surface, creating a scene that feels more like the Arctic than Montana.
The trail itself is a joy, gradual enough to be accessible to fit hikers of moderate experience, yet scenic enough to rival any trail in the park. The consistent grade and well-maintained path make this one of the most rewarding effort-to-payoff ratios of any hike in Glacier.
What You'll See
The trail begins with views of Ptarmigan Falls and meanders through alpine meadows often filled with wildflowers and roaming wildlife. This area is one of the most active bear corridors in the park, both grizzly and black bears are regularly spotted from the trail. At the lake, the water is a surreal shade of turquoise-blue, colored by glacial flour suspended in the water column. The icebergs range from small chunks to car-sized pieces that drift silently across the surface.