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    Lake McDonald

    4.7 (13 reviews)

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    Spencer Q.

    This is such a beautiful lake! I would especially encourage people to wake up early so that you can see the sunrise as the colors are quite amazing. I had the opportunity to experience two sunrises here and they were quite spectacular.

    Jacqueline T.

    This is a pretty lake at the end of Going to the Sun Road in Glacier. We stopped for a bit at the lodge to enjoy views of the lake. They have boat rentals and tours along with parents paddle board, kayak, and canoe rentals. It seemed like fun, but it was a little chilly when we were there and the rentals were kind of expensive. There are some hiking trails around the lake, but we didn't do any of them since we did other hikes that day. I think it's worth at least a quick stop while you're driving Going to the Sun Road.

    Linda I.

    Beautiful scenery. The water in the lake is so clear and refreshing during hot days. Parking can be limited in Apgar village.

    Logan C.

    Lake Mcdonald is a very scenic lake that is nothing short of amazing to gaze upon. You drive alongside the lake on your way further into Glacier National Park. You can rent boats by the hour in Apgar at the very bottom of the lake. A must stop inside GNP.

    Vladmir T.

    One Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In The World! This is one of the most people lakes in the world! Flawlessly clear water reflecting the surrounding landscapes. Beautiful rock shorelines surrounded by beautiful forest. This is an amazing place!

    Different color pebbles!!!
    Benedict A.

    First impressions this place is a must see. The pebbles on the lake floor are all different color. From reds to greens to yellows to orange to browns to blues. And when they get wet the color gets even darker. It's quite a site to behold. Also the mountain in the background still had some snow on it in the middle of July. I can only imagine the beuty when it's totally covered in snow during winter. The water is quite clear where you can see down for several feet. Theres multiple pull outs along the lake where you can actually get to the water which is nice. Theres also a hotel/lodge there where you can do rentals of kayaks, paddleboarding or small boats with engines to explore the river. There's also a good size stream there that feeds into the lake which you can walk acdoss and explore. This place is beautiful and I recommend it to anyone who comes to Montana. It's in the Glacier National Park. Didn't have time to visit the rest of the park but this lake is a must see for their very colorful rocks, and crystal clear water.

    setting sun
    Wasil K.

    By far the prettiest lake in the region, and that too during sunset, a photographers dream .. one would find a lot of pros waiting for that perfect moment to add it to their collection. Visited about a week ago, and inspite of all the wildfire surronding the Glacier national park with the smoke and all, it was a sight to behold. A friend wanted to add the much sought after pics for his collection and glad that we accompanied him at that time. The Sun setting right behind those peaks, the water changing its colors, the colored rocks, and the small small waves .. as if it was custom made to be beautiful :) An absolutely wonderful sight, not to miss.

    NPS photo on Flickr. Winter fishing on boat launch.

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    8 years ago

    This lake is beautiful and walking around is so beautiful. Definitely take the time to explore the area and then take a dip or kayak!

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    Review Highlights - Lake McDonald

    You drive alongside the lake on your way further into Glacier National Park.

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    Glacier National Park

    Glacier National Park

    4.6
    (354 reviews)
    1.8 mi

    Without a doubt, one of the most breathtaking national parks we've ever visited! Glacier National…read morePark completely exceeded our expectations and gave us some of the most unforgettable experiences. There was something incredible around every corner: Wildlife: We were lucky enough to see grizzly bears, black bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, birds, and so much more. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat was truly special. Glaciers & mountain views: Ancient glaciers surrounded by towering peaks, dramatic landscapes, and endless mountain views it honestly felt unreal. Turquoise lakes: The crystal-clear, turquoise waters looked almost too perfect to be real. Every lake felt like a postcard. Boat rides: A peaceful way to take in the beauty of the park, surrounded by glacier-fed waters and stunning mountain scenery. Hiking: Every trail we explored was worth it! Avalanche Lake, Hidden Lake, Running Eagle Falls, and more each one offered something completely different and beautiful. Wildflowers: Colorful wildflowers and bear grass were everywhere, adding even more beauty to an already incredible landscape. Huckleberry ice cream: And of course, you can't visit Glacier without trying huckleberry ice cream! Such a fun and delicious Glacier tradition. From the wildlife and glaciers to the turquoise lakes, scenic drives, hikes, and peaceful boat rides, Glacier National Park truly has it all. We left with so many beautiful memories and a camera roll full of pictures we'll be looking at for a long time. Absolutely unforgettable and 100% worth the trip!

    Where to start?! This has been a bucket list item for some time and not sure why I ever waited…read more If this is on your list GO NOW it does not disappoint!! Solo visit so easy to get up early and beat the crowds through Going to the Sun Road and Logan Pass parking drama. Perks: wildlife still out and about, easy parking to be had along the road and all lots, not a lot of crowds for optimum photo catching. Cooler on those hot days! Cons: no services open or available so have to have everything you need planned out until things open (normally 8 or 9 o'clock). I will have to venture back to grab a stamp for my NPS passport. I could spend a year here and still be excited to go and see more or hike another trail. It is a beautiful and pristine park to respectfully enjoy. I used the general store at Rising Sun mid morning to grab a few gift and snack items as well as refill water (bottle filler inside or purchase drinks of choice). Has just about anything you need there for purchase along with bathroom and showers. I can't speak for the park service visitor centers at Apgar nor Logan Pass as I didn't use as they were not open when I entered (save restroom at Logan). Logan Pass has free parking for 3 hours if you can get a spot. You do have to use the kiosk to out in plate data which provides time stamp and place on dash. Of note, there is a lot of places where you are driving by sheer cliffs with falling rock hazards with tight areas. Be mindful of the speed limits when reducing to 25 as they are normally around these tight areas or people congested areas. Also be courteous, there are plenty of pull off areas if you prefer to go slow, pull off and let others proceed smartly. Whether you are a hiker for the trails or a boater to grab one of the rentals to take out on the lake there is plenty to do here. Items book well in advance so book early and come enjoy one amazing National Park!!

    Photos
    Near St Mary lake
    Near St Mary lake
    We found him!
    We found him!
    Avalanche Lake

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    Avalanche Lake
    Lake Five Resort

    Lake Five Resort

    3.8
    (24 reviews)
    4.7 mi

    I would rate this trip we took as a family a 4/5. It was super fun to swim in the lake and go off…read morethe slide and diving board. The water in the swim zone is shallow enough so little kids can relax and be safe. There are lots of minnows to catch in the water along with decent sized fish in the boat doc area. The only things I have some concern about is all of the children that are little and unwatched and zooming around while cars are driving. I know that is not this places fault but if you bring little children you should definitely watch them. Also, quiet time is at 10:00; the kids are still out running and screaming at that time. I feel like more of the parent supervision should be emphasized more but otherwise great place! Really well maintained and yes the campsites are a little small but it's super cozy and really a great trip to go on and relax.

    What a hidden little gem!! I wish we would have stayed here 3 nights and not just 1 night. It was…read morethe most cleanest comfortable camp ground. Loved how it's right on the lake. They had a slide in the middle of the lake. Live music on a Saturday night. The hosts were all so nice and accommodating. We parked our camper van and everything was walkable. They had showers you can purchase with tokens, a small laundry facility you need quarters for and a small store that had a small selection of snacks and drinks and rentable items. I felt safer here then any other campground. The energy here was so positive in many ways. They have the cutest little cabins right on the lake! This place has it all! It really is a perfect little family get away! Perfect for the kids! They loved playing in the lake!!!! I have nothing bad to say about this beautiful place!!! Really enjoyed our stay here!

    Photos
    Lake Five Resort
    Lake Five Resort
    Loved staying over at Lake 5 resort!

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    Loved staying over at Lake 5 resort!
    Grinnell Glacier

    Grinnell Glacier

    4.8
    (9 reviews)
    2.3 mi

    We were able to hike the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead through Many Glacier on the last day it was…read moreopen for the season (9/19/21) but unfortunately the weather wasn't on our side. It was a constant mist/rain the entire hike and then getting into Grinnell Glacier it was snowing! We arrived at the parking lot by 7AM and there were already 10 cars parked and we started the hike around 7:30. By the time we got back, around 1PM, the lot was full but the rain started coming down more so people were leaving. It's about a 10-11 mile hike RT. During the summer, you can opt to pay to take a boat across Lake Josephine to shorten the hike, but that was the easiest part. The part of the hike where you walk above Lake Josephine is probably the most picturesque - so gorgeous but a little foggy. When you finally get to the Glacier you're greeted with the bluest water bend and snow covered mountains. For this hike, the way back is easier and we were happy about that because we were cold and starting to feel miserable. Would love to do this hike again with better weather but it was still a beautiful one to do! We drove Going-to-the-Sun road and round the Rising Sun Boat Deck parking lot (which was empty during this time) and it was the perfect spot for a nap.

    My friends and I hiked to Grinnell Overlook via the Granite park trail. The whole trail was out and…read moreback and a total of about 11.4 miles with around 3500 ft of elevation. Not gonna lie, the last stretch (the Garden Wall) was pretty rough as the trail was very narrow and incredibly rocky, and the wind was constantly screaming and whipping your face (definitely bring a windbreaker and protect your hats!!!). But despite the difficulty for us average hikers and the sad state of our feet afterwards, my friends and I absolutely loved the experience. It wasn't just about the view at the top for us. The entire trail was stunning and since we hiked late September, the red and golden foliage all around us made us feel like we were in another world. We saw various wildlife as well - mostly deer and chipmunks!

    Photos
    Grinnell Glacier
    Grinnell Glacier
    Grinnell Glacier

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    Glacier Outfitters

    Glacier Outfitters

    4.8
    (52 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    Views views views!…read more Great change of pace after days of hiking. I rented a 1 seater kayak from glacier outfitters. It may look like a far walk but it isn't! Totally doable. The staff was very nice to explain everything to me. They showed me the lake map and where to go and not go, etc. Instructions were very clear. I rented 2 hours (they have you 15 mins for the round trip walk). The walk from the rental to the lake I thought was a bit of a walk but it was not bad to haul the kayak there, they are on wheels so it is not bad. You leave the wheels near the trees. Returning the kayak was fairly easy as well. There are lockers available that you can put your stuff if you don't want to take it with you. The minimum number of hours is 2 hours and it was 40 something. Overall it was a good experience! Everything was great. Would recommend and use service again.

    We made reservations at Glacier Outfitters for kayaks for the day. (highly recommend reservations)…read more There is a small parking lot and some street parking but it was not a busy day and it was full. We had people waiting for our parking spot when we returned to the car. I'm not sure where people would park when it gets very busy. Perhaps there is another parking lot I didn't see. When you walk up to G.O. you sign waivers, pay the fee and are gathered in an area for instructions. The man who provided the instructions was very informative. Advised us of areas in Flathead Lake to avoid including a rough water area and a few bald eagle's nests as they recently laid eggs. After instructions, you are provided with the kayak, paddle, life jacket and a cart to roll the kayak down to the lake. Now, I'm pretty strong but the kayaks are heavy. I did think to myself, how would someone with less strength get this kayak down to the lake? Something to ask about if you are renting as it is several yards to walk with a heavy kayak. The carts were easy to remove and stash while we spent the day in the lake. When you finish kayaking, you simply load the kayak back on the cart and roll it back to G.O., drop off gear and you are done. We had a great experience with Glacier Outfitters and would use them again.

    Photos
    2025 August
    2025 August
    2025 August
    2025 August
    2025 August

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    2025 August
    Glacier Campground

    Glacier Campground

    4.3
    (39 reviews)
    3.1 mi

    We reserved two nights in a tent spot and needed a third night, they were able to switch us to…read moreanother spot for all three night. very accommodating, clean and very quiet setting, bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities. We will definitely book again! Thank you for the gracious hospitality! Kayla Gintner

    This is a fantastic campground located 1 1/2 miles from the Going-to-the-Sun Road in west Glacier…read moreNational Park. The service staff is great, there is an onsite cafe (Sunflower Cafe), showers, electric/water hookups, dump station, and large play area. Sites vary from tents to RVs to Cabins, with a maximum RV length of 32'. Our motorhome is 32' with two slides and our site was just right. It was very level for parking, has a fire ring and picnic table (all the tables in the park are in good condition & freshly painted). Some sites are not as level, but they accommodate a wide range of RV & tent campers. The Sunflower Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in the outside dining area or to go. We had the beef brisket one night and a breakfast sandwich one morning. Both meals were delicious. Although we are in Montana and were expecting to see a lot of pro-GOP/anti-Dem flags & attitudes, we were pleasantly surprised to see none! Our camping neighbors were a nice gay married couple who were super friendly. Liberals, gays and other progressive people would be very comfortable here, as would those not-so-woke. Price-wise they are cheaper than the nearby KOA and are a great option for those who don't camp in the park. We paid $302 (with AAA discount) for 4 nights.

    Photos
    Our campsite was very level, but a bit narrow.
    Our campsite was very level, but a bit narrow.
    Office, store and lounge
    Office, store and lounge
    Seating outside the office

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    Seating outside the office

    Lake McDonald - lakes - Updated August 2026

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