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4.5
560 votes

Lake McDonald Valley

West Glacier, Montana 59936 USA

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“The hub of activity on the west side of Glacier National Park.”

The valley is filled with spectacular sights, hiking trails, diverse species of plants and animals, historic chalets, the grand Lake McDonald Lodge and Four campgrounds: Apgar, Avalanche, Fish Creek, Sprague Creek. The Apgar Visitor Center is a good source of information in this area

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Reviewed by
Tatiana Danger

  • Road Warrior
  • 1,169 Reviews
  • 910 Helpful
April 18, 2017
Rated 4.0

Around Lake McDonald, there are four campgrounds, a visitor center, and loads of nearby day hikes, and close lodges and restaurants. Plus, you can rent boats, and even schedule a horseback ride. You'll definitely want to hit up Going-to-the-Sun Road if you visit Lake McDonald.

4 people found this review helpful

Reviewed by
Riley

  • 20 Reviews
  • 11 Helpful
August 08, 2016
Rated 4.0

Beautiful lake!! It's wonderfully clear! There's so many entrance points to the lake because it is so large, you're sure to find somewhere along it where you can be at least somewhat secluded. Be aware: It is ALL rocks, no sand, so make sure to bring water shoes!! Otherwise you might have some foot pain! No seaweeds, so that's a huge bonus.

4 people found this review helpful

Reviewed by
J. Marshall

  • 1 Review
  • 1 Helpful
February 13, 2018
Rated

I grew up in Montana and it is fair to say I'm not very objective when I say Glacier NP is my favorite and Lake McDonald is the reason. I have waded into the crystal clear water of the lake and the beautiful pebbles. A friend and I camped nearby on a motorcycle trip before taking the Going to the Sun road. I have been on the banks of the river that feeds Lake McDonald during salmon snagging time. I have recently retired and will be moving back to the area and will make sure I go back to the area. Beautiful!

1 person found this review helpful

Reviewed by
Jill Henry

  • 6 Reviews
  • 1 Helpful
January 10, 2018
Rated 5.0

Just GO!!! You wont regret it

1 person found this review helpful

Reviewed by
brittanytacocat

  • 3 Reviews
  • 1 Helpful
September 16, 2013
Rated

A gorgeous view of Glacier Parks mountain range.

1 person found this review helpful

Reviewed by
Bethel Family

  • 27 Reviews
  • 3 Helpful
August 03, 2021
Rated 5.0

Parked on one of the pull offs, had a picnic on the rocked beach and the kids swam, they were amazed at how clear the water was, the said they felt like they could see down 100 feet!

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Reviewed by
cowpoke77

  • 12 Reviews
  • 0 Helpful
December 01, 2020
Rated

A great place to see grizzly bears and extremely clear water with multicolored rocks! Located near glacier National park it makes a great camping area

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Reviewed by
JDomm

  • 1 Review
  • 0 Helpful
April 26, 2017
Rated 5.0

This place is beautiful! I have dipped my toes in at multiple points on this lake. There is nothing better than being in this beautiful place, with fresh air, wilderness all around, and miles upon miles of peaceful hiking amongst wildlife. The most popular spot on the lake. in my opinion is in Apgar village. So, if you are looking for a quiet lake experience, pull over at one of the view points lower on Going to the Sun Rd. and stroll down one of the footpaths to the lake. It is 1 million percent worth it!

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Reviewed by
NormaBigalow

  • 1 Review
  • 0 Helpful
March 17, 2017
Rated

Is there any possible way to purchase a small bag of these stones???? Pls reply

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Reviewed by
Donna Hull

  • Road Warrior
  • 39 Reviews
  • 25 Helpful
September 04, 2016
Rated 5.0

If you have the chance, visit Lake McDonald in the winter. All of the concessions and lodging inside Glacier National Park will be closed but there are places to stay and eat in West Glacier. And here's why you should visit: seeing (and photographing) the snow-covered mountain reflections in the lake is pure magic. Although most of Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed in winter, the park service keeps 10 miles plowed to Lake McDonald Lodge. Stop along the way to take those gorgeous photos of the lake that I suggested. The, park in the lot at the closed lodge to hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski as far as you'd like on Going-tho-the Sun Road.

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Lake McDonald Valley

West Glacier, Montana
59936 USA
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