Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park: Largest Proglacial Lake

Q: Is it worth the 0.1-mile Lake McDonald Lookout Trail to see the shoreline?

Yes. The short path lands you right at the shore and provides a direct sense of the lake’s scale and still-water reflections.

Q: Should I bring bear spray?

Yes. Glacier National Park is bear country; carry bear spray and know how to use it to reduce risk when near wildlife.

Q: Will my cell service be reliable here?

No. Cell coverage is generally terrible around Lake McDonald; download maps and content offline before you go.

Q: Can I kayak or canoe on Lake McDonald?

Yes. The lake offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities; stay mindful of water traffic and wear your personal flotation device.

+2 more

Overview

About This Attraction

Turquoise water mirrors the pine-fringed shoreline along a broad, glassy basin. This is a glacial lake formed by late-Pleistocene ice that left a U-shaped valley filled with meltwater. The water stays crystal-clear to the bottom, thanks to the cold depths and minimal plankton. The Going-to-the-Sun Road runs along the southern edge, offering easy roadside access to the lake's expanse.

Best Time to Visit

Late June through early September is the warm-season window with full access to lake activities around Lake McDonald. May–early June and September–early October are quieter and milder. Sunsets over the lake create strong reflections; the morning and late-afternoon light makes the pebble colors pop—red and maroon tones from iron-rich grains and blue-green hues from deeper, less oxidized water. Midday glare can be intense, and July and August are the busiest months.

Visitor Tips

Parking fills by early morning—use Apgar Village lots or pull-offs along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Bear spray is essential in Glacier National Park; carry and know how to use it.
Kayak or canoe access is common; bring your own craft or rent nearby.
Dawn and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing along the lakeshore.
Dress for cold water even in summer; water is frigid.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 48°35′N 113°55′W

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Apgar Village, Lake McDonald Lodge, Trail of the Cedars, Going-to-the-Sun Road pull-offs

Insider Tips

Arrive before sunrise for calm water and better reflections.
Bear spray is essential in this region.
Pull-offs along Going-to-the-Sun Road provide easy shoreline views.
If you’re paddling, respect the watercraft traffic and stay near shore.

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Apgar Center and adjacent paths are accessible; Trail of the Cedars boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible; Lake McDonald Lodge paths and park shuttles offer ADA access

Family Friendly:

Good for families with careful supervision near water and bear awareness; keep kids close at the shore

Nearby Facilities:

Apgar Village, Apgar Visitor Center, Lake McDonald Lodge

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 408 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

I have too many pictures of this lake from my trip. It’s beautiful, quiet during sunrise/sunset times and there are a plethora of areas to pull off at and take pictures!

An extremely beautiful spot! We came here as our last stop on the way out of the park. There weren’t a lot of people, the views were amazing, and the sound of the water was peaceful. A great view of the mountains with the lake and colorful rocks

Beautiful lake, super clear water when the wind isn't making waves. The rocks have amazing colors. There are many different turnout spots where you can walk down and see the lake. It has great swimming opportunities as well as beaches to just lay and relax in the sun. I would recommend taking time to stop and walk down to the water for a better view when looking for a great reflective shot.

Showing 3 of 408 reviews

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking often fills by early morning, especially in peak summer. Plan to arrive early or use Apgar Village lots and roadside pull-offs for a place to park.

Is it worth the 0.1-mile Lake McDonald Lookout Trail to see the shoreline?

Should I bring bear spray?

Will my cell service be reliable here?

Can I kayak or canoe on Lake McDonald?

📖 wikipedia.org 📖 apple.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 visitmt.com 📖 thetravel.com 📖 glacierhighline.com 📖 islands.com 📖 rove.me 📖 glacierbearcabin.com 📖 glaciertourbase.com 📖 reddit.com 📖 glacierparkcollection.com 📖 glacierbearcondo.com 📖 glaciernationalparklodges.com 📖 tandfonline.com 📖 libretexts.org 📖 Current time information in Flathead County, US. 📖 recreation.gov ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →