Ptarmigan Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
700 ft
About Ptarmigan Falls
Ptarmigan Falls is a scenic waterfall located along the Ptarmigan Trail in Glacier National Park, Montana. It is a popular stop for hikers heading to Iceberg Lake or Ptarmigan Tunnel, offering a serene spot to rest and enjoy the cascading water.
The Setting
Ptarmigan Falls sits at 5,669 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 5.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 700 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Ptarmigan Falls is a well-maintained path that winds through dense forests and open meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is located approximately 2.6 miles from the trailhead and is a popular resting point for hikers continuing to Iceberg Lake or Ptarmigan Tunnel.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a moderately challenging hike with some elevation gain. The waterfall itself is a picturesque cascade surrounded by lush vegetation. Wildlife sightings, including bears and mountain goats, are common in the area, so hikers should remain vigilant.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ptarmigan Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A reservation or entry permit is required to access Glacier National Park during peak season (May through September). Check the National Park Service website for details.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ptarmigan Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Ptarmigan Falls is during the summer and early fall when the trail is free of snow and the weather is mild. Spring can also be a good time, but snow may still be present on the trail.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Carry bear spray and hike in groups to reduce the risk of bear encounters. Stay on the trail to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, as conditions in Glacier National Park can shift rapidly.
Current Water Conditions
237 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 114 years of record
2.34 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
256 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
269 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
264 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
270 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
251 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
251 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
247 cfs
4/10Best window: Sun — low flow, chance rain showers (trip score 4/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Babb hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Ptarmigan Falls is accessed via the Ptarmigan Trail, which begins at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn in the Many Glacier area of Glacier National Park. The trailhead is well-marked and easy to locate.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn parking lot, but it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
5,669 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.821439° N, -113.711591° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Carry bear spray and know how to use it, as this is bear country. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. Check trail conditions at the ranger station before heading out.
This trail sits at 5,669 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 23% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 5.2 miles and 700 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
St. Mary Village
Chief Mountain Cabins
Glacier Borealis - 27’ Glamping Trailer by Glacier
Walsh Cottage on the shores of Lake McDonald
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
MANY GLACIER CAMPGROUND
2.3 miles away · 110 sites
Overview The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not availa
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Iceberg Lake, Ptarmigan Tunnel, Swiftcurrent Lake, Many Glacier Hotel
Wildlife
Common wildlife sightings include bears, mountain goats, deer, and various bird species.
Cities near Ptarmigan Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Ptarmigan Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.