Posted in Montana February 15, 2021 by

Most People Have No Idea This Unique Tunnel In Montana Exists

If you grew up in Montana, you’ve almost certainly been to Glacier National Park. And if you’re REALLY familiar with Montana, you may have heard of the unique tunnel, the Ptarmigan Tunnel, which is located inside the park. After all, there aren’t many places in the area where you can walk right through a mountain, right? It’s one of the most unique tunnels in Montana, and worthy of a visit, so lace up those hiking shoes and let’s get going!

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The Ptarmigan Tunnel was built in 1930 through the Ptarmigan Wall.
Aram Kudurshian / Flickr
The tunnel was created for horses and for early park tours. Its existence made an incredibly tough trail much easier to get through.
The tunnel was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corp.
Wikipedia
To create the tunnel, two opposing steel jackhammers drilled from either side of the mountain and a series of rounds of dynamite gradually broke through it in less than three months.
The 250-foot tunnel is currently part of one of Glacier's most popular hikes.
Troy Smith / Flickr
Still, many Montanans who are not avid hikers have no idea that it even exists.
It's also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Troy Smith / Flickr
Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail shares the first half of its trail with the Iceberg Lake Trail, eventually arriving at Ptarmigan Lake located at the base of Ptarmigan Wall.
Mark Goble / Flickr
There are some spectacular views on this trail, like this one. You'll want to sit for a spell and just take it all in!

Have you been through the Ptarmigan Tunnel? Did you know about this unique tunnel in Montana? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re interested in learning more, here are some other fascinating facts about Glacier National Park. And if you’re interested in other beautiful mountain hikes, our previous article highlights some of our favorites!

Address: Montana 59928, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

unique tunnel in Montana

March 01, 2021
Jackie Ann

Which hidden gems in Montana should I visit?

The Treasure State is worthy of its nickname boasting an abundance of hidden gem destinations within our borders. Nestled in Montana’s northwest corner, the Yaak Valleys’ unusual rainforest landscape makes it a must-visit for camping and wildlife enthusiasts. When you are looking for a relaxing getaway the tiny town of Polebridge is a perfect spot. Make one of their cozy cabins a home base for trekking the majestic terrain of Glacier National Park. One of the most scenic spots in Billings is The Four Dances Recreation Area, where hikers can take in dazzling views of the city and surrounding natural beauty.

Where can I hike to a cave in Montana?

Montana’s Northern Rocky Mountain Grotto boasts an impressive 400 caves offering an exciting range of trails for cavern hunters. One of the most rewarding and unique hikes is The Ice Caves Trail located in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. This limestone cave maintains temperatures year-round low enough to preserve incredible ice columns formed as water seeps into the cave. Along the hike, the Snowy Crest provides breathtaking views of the expansive Absarokee Range, Moccasins and Judith Mountains, Little Belts, Crazy Mountains, the Highwoods, and possibly the Grand Teton Range if you’re out on a clear day.

What one-of-a-kind destinations can I visit in Montana?

Big Sky Country has a rich frontier history and unparalleled natural beauty offering excellent destinations you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Spending a day wandering the remnants of a ghost town is an unforgettable experience and Montana is home to some truly remarkable sites. In Granite County, the desolate town of Garnet was once a  gold rush mining town dating back to the 1860s. Touring the incredibly well-preserved buildings still standing in Garnet will transport you back in time. Another noteworthy ghost town is the home of Calamity Jane, Castle Town built during the silver rush. The old west architecture along the main street gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into our past.

Address: Montana 59928, USA