Swiftcurrent Glacier

Swiftcurrent Glacier is a mountain glacier in Glacier National Park that spans across steep alpine terrain and helps shape this high mountain landscape. The ice feeds several alpine lakes in the surrounding area.

The glacier formed during the last ice age and has shrunk steadily since the early 1900s due to rising temperatures. This decline clearly shows the climate changes affecting this region.

The Blackfeet Nation viewed this area as sacred and used the surrounding valleys for hunting and gathering. These practices continue to shape how local communities relate to this mountain landscape today.

The main way to see this glacier is to hike the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail, which starts from Swiftcurrent Motor Inn and goes through alpine terrain. The route is demanding and requires good fitness and proper gear for changing mountain weather.

The glacier feeds several colored alpine lakes in the area, including Redrock Lake with its red sediment deposits at the shore. These visible geological features reveal the mineral richness of the surrounding landscape.

Location: Montana

GPS coordinates: 48.76861,-113.74722

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:42