Top 17 Best Lakes in Glacier National Park Ranked

Glacier National Park’s lakes are legendary—turquoise bowls tucked among jagged peaks, many of which remain unnamed to most visitors. In our experience, the 17 best lakes we keep returning to showcase the range—from easy-access overlooks to serene backcountry gems.

We recommend starting with Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake for dramatic views with minimal effort, then adding a few mid-range hikes to Grinnell Lake or Swiftcurrent Lake for closer encounters with glacier-fed water. For insider access, park-info notes that Going-to-the-Sun Road provides quick shoreline views at several pullouts, and the Many Glacier area offers easier loops around Swiftcurrent and Two Medicine Lakes that are family-friendly.

From our experience, arrive early to secure parking at popular trailheads and bring a lightweight shoreline picnic—the calmest water views often appear before 9 a.m. If you’re chasing solitude, plan a sunset walk along Avalanche Lake or Hidden Lake Overlook via the Logan Pass trailheads—you’ll often have the lake nearly to yourself, with silhouettes of larches in autumn colors. We’ve found these routines help you maximize laketime without the crowds.

What we’ve found works best: map out a 2–3 lake route per day, start with a nearer lake like Lake McDonald or Saint Mary Lake, and save the longer hikes for afternoons when light is softer on the water. In our experience, a small, dry bag with a compact jacket, rain shell, and lunch is all you need for a half-day lake stroll. Our top pick remains Lake McDonald for iconic scenery and ease of access—but Grinnell Lake earns top marks for a quieter, emerald-blue setting a bit off the beaten path.

1. Lake McDonald

Best Lake In Glacier National Park For All Around Fun

Lake McDonald: your all-around fun hub with fewer crowds early and late in the season

This lake is Glacier’s easiest access point for a full day of options—from boat tours and kayaking to easy shoreline strolls and photo-worthy sunrises. In our experience, the Lake McDonald Lodge dock is the best starting point for a summer boat tour, and the Apgar Village area is perfect for quick kayak rentals if you want to skim the surface without committing a full day to the water.

We’ve found that the best value comes from pairing a calm morning on the water with a low-key afternoon hike along the shoreline, then cooling off with a swim at designated swim areas near the lodge beach. Parking can fill quickly in peak months, so plan to arrive early or use the Lake McDonald Lodge lot and stroll to the shore. What we recommend: arrive before 7:30 am on weekends to beat most crowds, especially in July and August.

What we love about this spot is the variety in one place—iconic rainbow rocks, easy access for families, and enough quiet corners to enjoy a peaceful moment while still staying in the heart of Glacier. If you’re chasing photography, the sunrise over Lake McDonald from Bison Range Lookout can be stunning, but you’ll want a clear morning and a tripod to capture the colors as they wash over the water.

From our experience, Lake McDonald stays true to its reputation: a playground for all ages with enough options to keep everyone engaged, yet with options to escape the larger crowds when you choose the right times and spots. We recommend starting with the lodge dock area for tours, then looping a gentle lakeside path to catch shade and wildlife along the shore—a perfect rehearsal for a big Glacier day ahead.

2. Saint Mary Lake

Best Lake For Photography

St. Mary Lake earns its fame as a photography magnet, especially at sunrise. Its towering shields of mountains frame the water, and Goose Island adds a charming focal point in the foreground.

We recommend arriving before dawn to catch the alpenglow on Mount Gould and the soft morning light turning the lake’s surface. The classic shot from the Saint Mary Lake overlook and from the Doverspike or Rising Sun areas is virtually a rite of passage for Glacier photographers.

In our experience, the best time to shoot is May through mid-June or September, when crowds thin and lighting is prime. Bring a compact polarizer to tame reflections, a sturdy tripod, and a lens in the 24–70mm range for versatility on Goose Island and the mountain amphitheater beyond.

St. Mary Lake is more than a view; it’s a chance to feel Glacier’s scale. We’ve found that simple, long exposures at golden hour reveal the quiet drama of the peaks reflected on still mornings.

If you’re chasing color, stay for sunset too. The light on the ridges behind Wild Goose Island shifts dramatically, offering dramatic silhouettes against a glowing sky. In our experience, the Saint Mary Lake area remains a reliable, endlessly repeatable canvas for landscape lovers.

3. Hidden Lake

Best Lake To Hike To In Glacier National Park

Starting at Logan Pass Visitor Center, the hike to Hidden Lake offers alpine drama from the first switchback. In our experience, this trail rewards early-morning hikers with calmer crowds and clearer wildlife viewing, especially in late spring and early summer.

The boardwalk to the overlook provides an instant reward, with the lake spreading below and peaks towering above. We recommend arriving before 9:00 a.m. in peak season to secure a parking spot and enjoy the quieter view from the platform.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail continues beyond the overlook to the lake’s edge. It’s a wilder section with fewer people, and you’ll often hear marmots and distant rumbles of glaciers. For safety, note the water is icy and swimming is not recommended by park guidelines; if you brave a dip, proceed with caution and keep it short.

What we’ve found is that Hidden Lake isn’t just a photo op—it’s a full sensory experience: wildflowers, birdsong, and the echo of distant avalanches. It’s a must-do when you’re at Logan Pass, and in our view, it’s one of the most rewarding short hikes in Glacier. Our top pick for families and seasoned hikers alike remains the Hidden Lake loop for reliable scenery and accessibility.

4. Grinnell Lake

Best Glacier

Grinnell Lake is our go-to for a glacier-front scene, where Grinnell Glacier feeds its icy blue waters. The mineral-rich meltwater gives the lake that distinctive, almost surreal ice-blue tint we’ve chased in person on multiple visits, making the view feel both intimate and grand.

Along the Grinnell Lake hike, we’ve found a steady parade of wildlife—birds skimming the surface, small mammals skittering through the brush, and the quiet rustle of leaves in the breeze. The atmosphere is dynamic and photogenic, especially in early morning or late afternoon light when the wildlife is most active.

To sweeten the journey, huckleberries line portions of the trail in late summer, offering a natural snack if you time it right. In our experience, pair the berry pause with a slower pace to soak in the glacier reflections and the mountain silence—it’s what makes this spot linger in memory long after you’ve left the trail.

5. Avalanche Lake

Best For Water Lovers

For water lovers, Avalanche Lake is a must-do that delivers from the first step to the final view. In our experience, the hike starts at the Trail of the Cedars trailhead, where you’ll park and join a cedar-lined route that foreshadows the scenery to come.

The trail then departs from the cedar stand and hugs Avalanche Creek, easing you toward a dramatic, waterfall-soft surround. We recommend hiking early in the day to hear the creek’s roar echo through the pines and to catch the clearest reflections on the lake when the light is soft.

Avalanche Lake itself unfolds with steep, mossy slopes that drop into the lake and occasional waterfalls down the hillsides during melt-off. If you’re chasing water features, this spot delivers with motion, sound, and sweeping mountain silhouettes.

From our experience, this route is family-friendly but still feels like a true Glacier experience. Plan for a 1- to 2-hour approach each way depending on stops, and pack a lightweight layer for the lakeside breeze. In peak summer, we’ve found it crowded toward mid-morning—aim for a 7–9 a.m. start to maximize quiet and photo opportunities.

As a side note for planning: the Trail of the Cedars parking lot can fill up on sunny weekends, so consider parking at the nearby Logan Pass area and walking a bit to the trailhead if you’re comfortable with a longer approach. What we’ve found is that timing beach-style, slow-down moments around the lake enhances the whole water-focused experience.

6. Swiftcurrent Lake

Best For Kayaking

Hooked from the first paddle stroke, Swiftcurrent Lake offers one of the most cinematic kayaking experiences in the region—think alpine spires reflected like glass on a calm morning.

In our experience, the lake’s surrounding peaks give you a Swiss‑alpine vibe without leaving Montana. The scenery, especially with the Many Glacier Hotel perched along the shore, makes it feel like you’ve slipped into a postcard. According to NPS guidelines for non-motorized boating, Swiftcurrent Lake is open to kayaks and canoes, but always verify current conditions before you go.

We recommend launching from the Swiftcurrent Lake Trailhead parking area early in the day to catch light winds coming off the valley and to avoid crowds. Midweek mornings are noticeably quieter, which helps when you’re trying to glide past the hotel’s shore and get that mirror‑perfect reflection shot.

Whether you’re paddling from shore or touring the shallows near the hotel dock, the combination of turquoise water, dramatic rock walls, and classic lodge architecture creates a kayaking outing that’s as much about the views as the paddle. In our experience, Swiftcurrent Lake isn’t just a workout—it’s a sensory immersion you’ll remember long after you’ve pulled the kayak up on the grass.

7. Two Medicine Lake

Best For Relaxing

The Two Medicine Area offers a rare, slower tempo for Glacier visitors, and Two Medicine Lake is the crown jewel for relaxation. We’ve found that this calm, forest-edged setting is perfect for unplugging and unwinding after a busy day on the park’s more crowded trails.

For a practical visit, park in the main Two Medicine Lake lot early, then stroll to the shoreline to catch a glassy reflection at first light. In our experience, dawn light adds a hush to the scene and keeps boat traffic at a minimum, which is ideal for hammock lounging or a lazy picnic. Bring a lightweight rain shell—the breeze off the lake can pick up after sunrise, even in summer.

We recommend choosing a quiet spot along the water with a clear view of the distant ridge, and setting up your hammock between sturdy pines away from the boat launch path. The gentle sway and natural sounds make this an instant recharge—perfect for creative photography or simply breathing deeply and letting the week drop away.</p>

8. Iceberg Lake

Best Lake In Glacier National Park To See Bears

If chasing bear sightings is on your Glacier National Park list, we consistently point travelers toward Iceberg Lake. Bears are drawn to the huckleberries along Iceberg Lake Trail, so we recommend moving with purpose and keeping a respectful distance. Remember to follow NPS bear safety guidelines and store food in approved containers away from the trail and backpacks.

Iceberg Lake itself feels like a separate world—a deep blue pool framed by granite walls that seems almost carved out of the mountains. In our experience, the sense of isolation here is real, and the view rewards the hike with a sense of quiet grandeur after the crowds thin out near the end of the day.

Wildflowers flank the trail on both sides, creating a vibrant ribbon of color against the gray-blue backdrop. We’ve found that visiting in the early morning or late afternoon not only enhances light for photos but also helps you catch a quieter moment by the lake, away from tour buses and peak crowds. If you can, start at the Many Glacier area parking lot and plan for a slower pace to savor the meadow sections and the bear-safety gaps along the path.

9. Fishercap Lake

Best For Spotting Moose

For moose watchers, Fishercap Lake is still our top bet in Glacier National Park. We’ve found this area to host the most reliable moose sightings, especially along the shorelines where willows crowd the water’s edge.

Seeing a moose in person is the kind of moment that lingers long after your trip. In our experience, the best encounters happen at dawn or just after dusk when the light is soft and the lake is tranquil.

Pro tips from our team: arrive early (before 7:00 AM in peak season) to snag parking and a quiet viewing spot along Fishercap Lake’s north shore. Keep a respectful distance, use binoculars or a telephoto lens, and never approach the animal. Remember, the park rules require you to stay a safe distance from wildlife.

The lake’s backdrop—Mount Wilbert towering over 4,000 feet above the water—creates dramatic reflections when the wind dies down. The combination of crystal-clear water, mirror-like reflections, and wildlife sightings makes Fishercap Lake a standout stop for photography, wildlife viewing, and quiet contemplation.

If you’re aiming for a Moose-focused visit, we recommend pairing Fishercap Lake with a short loop around the nearby shore where sightings have been reported more consistently during late spring to early autumn. It’s a destination that rewards patience and a low-key, observant approach.

10. Glacier Lake

Best Lake On The Canadian Side Of The Park

This long lake, reminiscent of the rivers of Alaska, is framed by pine trees that line the mountain sides, leading all the way down to the bank of the lake. The sight is one of harmony and natural elegance, a landscape that whispers of untamed beauty.

Almost as if the landscape was perfectly planned, sitting at the end of Glacier Lake, a snow-capped mountain can be seen on the far side. This majestic peak adds a touch of wonder to the view, its white crown contrasting brilliantly with the surrounding greenery.

The water of Glacier Lake looks like Arctic Blitz Gatorade, a light ice-blue color that enchants the eye. While its appearance may invite curiosity, you definitely would not want to swim in this lake. The water looks cold, and trust me, it is. The chill can be felt even from a distance, a tangible reminder of nature’s raw power and purity, an experience that thrills as much as it humbles.

From our experience, the Canadian side delivers a more tranquil perch for this lake, especially in early mornings when the air is crisp and wildlife options feel closer. We recommend staying on established trails and keeping a respectful distance from shorelines to preserve the scene for everyone who comes here. For planning, check current advisories with the park authorities before you go, and be prepared for variable weather that can shift the light across the water in minutes.

What we’ve found enduring about Glacier Lake on the Canadian side is how the color, quiet, and alpine backdrop pair so well with a short, easy walk. If you’re after a classic, photo-worthy overlook with fewer crowds than some more famous spots, this is a strong pick. Our top tip: visit at dawn for soft reflections and a chance to spot local birds darting along the shoreline.

11. Kintla Lake

Best For Last Minute Camping

The Kintla Lake Campground is a first-come, first-serve campground situated directly next to Kintla Lake. Its location is very secluded, offering a retreat into nature’s embrace.

For those seeking a quiet and intimate connection with the wilderness, this campground provides a perfect setting, away from the hustle and bustle, where the sounds of nature hold sway, and tranquility reigns.

Being directly on Kintla Lake, and being a first come first serve campground, this is the perfect lake for last minute travelers looking to experience Glacier National Park. The amenities are slightly lacking, only having a potable water pump, and vault restrooms. But what is lacking in amenities, makes up for in pure Montana views.

Kintla Lake is a longer lake, offering up amazing views of the park. The sunsets here are absolutely incredible. The dusk sky glows blaze orange, reflecting off of the peaks. Clear days are best for hiking and exploring but cloudy sunsets offer the best colors by far.

12. Upper Two Medicine Lake

Best For Mountain Reflections

Upper Two Medicine Lake sits in a very secluded corner of the park, ringed by craggy peaks that mirror across glassy water. In our experience, the calm surface makes every light change look painterly, especially in the early morning or after a light breeze settles.

We’ve found that the best reflections happen when the sun is not directly overhead—early dawn and late golden hour are reliably stunning. If you’re chasing the perfect shot, plan a visit before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m.; the water is typically flatter then, yielding crisper mirror images.

Two Medicine’s shore is a friendly spot for a low-profile picnic or a quiet sunset. We recommend arriving at the north shore trailhead for shorter walks and easy access to the water’s edge; weekends can bring more visitors, but early in the day you’ll still find a peaceful setting for sunrise or a contemplative moment. In our experience, this lake is ideal for photography lovers and seekers of calm, mountain-light inspiration.

13. Otokomi Lake

Best For Colorful Mountain Rocks

Hooked by color? Otokomi Lake treats rock and water like a painter’s palette, with rust-red cliffs that set the scene for a remarkable day on the shore.

From our experience, the shallow shore extends about 30 feet before you reach the red rock, so bring footwear you’re comfortable wading in shallow, rocky areas. We’ve also found the best reflections occur on calm mornings after light winds, when the color truly pops in the water.

The contrast between the bright red cliffs and the deep blue lake is unmistakable and photogenic, a unique feature you won’t find many places. On clear, wind-free days, the red hues mirror across the surface, creating a spellbinding tableau we keep returning to check from different angles.

To maximize your visit, we recommend arriving early to secure a quiet shoreline spot and photographing from the east side at sunrise. In our experience, calmer conditions midweek reduce crowding, letting you soak in the scene without distractions.

Otokomi Lake offers a tranquil escape that rewards patience and careful observation, a color-forward moment that lingers long after you leave the shore.

14. Bowman Lake

Best Lake To Tie The Knot At

If you’re dreaming of a mountain wedding with a serene, forested backdrop, Bowman Lake is a compelling choice that often flies under the radar. As the third largest lake in the area, it delivers dramatic scenery without the crowds you’ll find at more famed spots.

We’ve found that the best way to plan here is to coordinate with the park for a special use permit well in advance, and to schedule on a weekday if possible. Access is by Bowman Lake Road, which can be rough in early season or after heavy rain, and parking is tight near the day-use area and campground entrance—arrive early to secure a spot.

In our experience, timing matters: late morning light over the water (and early afternoon boats on the far shore) creates a stunning, intimate vibe for photos. If you want a truly secluded feel, consider a small, intimate ceremony with a tight guest list and a simple reception back at Bowman Lake Campground; we recommend arranging local vendors in nearby Polebridge for easier logistics and a relaxed, outdoor-friendly timeline.

15. Lake Josephine

Best For Seeing Grinnell Glacier From Afar

Grinnell Glacier rises dramatically behind Lake Josephine, and we’ve found this view to be one of the most reliably striking in Glacier. The lake-side shore is a nearer, gentler option than the full Grinnell Trail, making the glacier feel intimate without a long approach.

This route is shorter and relatively flat compared with the Grinnell Lake hike, which means you can savor the glacier-and-water panorama with less elevation gain. We recommend starting from the Swiftcurrent area to minimize backcountry effort and maximize time at the shore.

From our experience, arriving early—ideally before 9:00 am in peak season—helps you beat lingering crowds and softens the morning light for photography. The wind can pick up quickly here, so bring a wind shell and keep gear tethered if you’re near the water.

Visiting Lake Josephine let us connect with a major Glacier National Park wonder without a strenuous trek, while still keeping you close to the action. It’s a must-see for first-timers and a reliable repeat for seasoned visitors seeking Grinnell Glacier views with accessible terrain.

16. Cracker Lake

Best For Backcountry Camping

Cracker Lake is one of the standout backcountry destinations in our itinerary. It rewardingly combines rugged access with an alpine-vista payoff that makes every mile worth the effort.

In our experience, the best approach is to start at the Many Glacier or Swiftcurrent area and plan for a fairly long day to reach the lake’s rocky shore. We recommend checking current backcountry permit rules with the NPS before you go, since overnight use is regulated to protect the fragile meadows and the lake’s glacial-blue waters.

The surrounding meadows burst with wildflowers in late summer, and the first light on Cracker Lake’s walls makes the morning worth waking for. We’ve found that camping inside the designated backcountry zone gives you quieter nights and easier bear-awareness routines, plus easier access to water and sunrise photo opportunities. Always store food properly and follow bear-safe practices, which the park service emphasizes for backcountry campers.

17. Quartz Lake

Best Lake In Glacier National Park For Fishing

Quartz Lake is home to the Quartz Lake Fishing Project. As a part of the project, a net was put in to prevent non-native species from entering the lake. However, this failed. As a result, fishing on the lake can be lucrative. Any non-native species have no catch limit. In fact, it is encouraged to kill these species to prevent further damage. Just be sure you know exactly what it is you killing. Keeping/killing any native species is illegal.