Lake McDonald Lodge: 82 Rooms, Built 1913, Glacier Park

Q: Are pets allowed in rooms?

Pets are not allowed in rooms; service animals are allowed. Dogs may be on paved walkways and the dock but not on trails or in buildings.

Q: What are check in and check out times?

Check in is after 4:00 PM and check out is by 11:00 AM.

Q: When is Lake McDonald Lodge open for the season?

Season runs mid May to late September; peak months are July and August.

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Overview

About This Property

Lake McDonald Lodge sits on the shores of Glacier National Park in a 1913 Swiss chalet tradition. With 82 rooms and a rustic pace, it prioritizes the lakefront experience over in-room tech. Peak season is July–August, and check-in starts after 4 PM.

Your Morning Game Plan

Coffee verdict: plan to use lobby or nearby options outside the park. Drive to the gate takes 15-20 minutes. Leave by 7:00 AM to beat park crowds.

Highlights

Book If

✅ BOOK IF: You want a historic lodge experience with lake views and you are okay with limited modern amenities. ❌ SKIP IF: You require air conditioning, reliable in room WiFi, or refrigerators.

Notable Views

Lake McDonald lake views, Mountain views

Architecture

Historic Swiss chalet architecture

Family Friendly

Best for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a historic lodge experience within the park.

Best Time to Visit

Peak season is July and August within the May 15 to Sept 28 operation window.

Pro Tips

Parking is free self-parking, usually near the lodge; expect a short walk from some spots.
WiFi is lobby only with very limited bandwidth; plan ahead for connectivity.
No in room refrigerators or air conditioning; allocate cooler storage or use the campstore.
Use the free Glacier National Park shuttle stop at Lake McDonald Lodge along Going-to-the-Sun Road; wheelchair accessible.
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially in peak season.
Dogs are allowed on paved walkways and the dock, but not on trails or inside buildings.

Property History

Established: 1913

Recent Updates: Some rooms and cabins renovated in 2016.

The Honest Truth

This is a historic lodge with lakefront charm. It lacks modern in room comforts such as air conditioning, refrigerators, and reliable in room WiFi; some rooms have thin walls. If you want a true Glacier National Park vibe, the location and architecture make the tradeoffs worth it.

Who Should Skip This

Skip if you insist on modern conveniences, soundproof rooms, or guaranteed high speed WiFi in your room.

Booking Insider Tip

Reservations are strongly recommended. Booking for the following year opens September 1. For confirmation call (855) 733-4522.

What Guests Say

Historic Lake McDonald Lodge offers lakefront charm and park access, but expect minimal modern comforts and rustic acoustics; peak season sells out quickly.

Details

Rooms

Max Occupancy: 4 guests

Amenities

In-Room Amenities

Alarm clock
Sink
Fan
Iron
Ironing board
Hairdryer

Property Amenities

Restaurant
Bar/lounge
Library
Campstore
Gift shop
Boat cruises
Red Bus tours
Horseback riding
Evening ranger programs

Facilities

Restaurant

Russell's Fireside Dining Room—on site restaurant and bar.

Policies & Check-in

Cancellation Policy

2025 policy: cancellations must be made at least 3 days prior to check-in. Beginning May 1, 2026: 14 days prior for stays May 1–Oct 14; 3 days prior for stays Oct 15–Apr 30.

Pet Policy

Pets not allowed in rooms except service animals. There is a fee for noncompliance. Dogs permitted on paved walkways and the dock at Lake McDonald Lodge but not on trails, in buildings, or along lakeshores outside of developed areas.

Parking

Free self-parking is available, usually near the accommodation; may require a short walk.

Accessibility

ADA-accessible Rooms
Ramps
Accessible Pathways

Location

Address & Directions

Address

288 Lake McDonald Ldg Lp, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA

Get Directions Apple Maps

Proximity

To Park Center

15-20 minutes to Glacier National Park Entrance Station

To Nearest Town

10-15 minutes to West Glacier

Access & Transportation

Shuttle Service

Free Glacier National Park shuttle stop at Lake McDonald Lodge along Going-to-the-Sun Road; shuttle between West Glacier Train Station and Lake McDonald Lodge.

Walkable Amenities

Lake McDonald, Sperry Trailhead, Lodge dining facilities, Campstore

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.6 /5

Based on 1559 Google reviews

Based on 1559 guest reviews

" Historic Lake McDonald Lodge offers lakefront charm and park access, but expect minimal modern comforts and rustic acoustics; peak season sells out quickly."

Reviews from Google

I have been to the cabins at McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park and they were decent for what they are. They’re not luxury accommodations by any means, but considering the remote location and the fact that you’re in the middle of a national park, they get the job done.The cabins were clean and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The beds weren’t amazing, but they were fine after a long day of hiking. The bathrooms were basic but functional, and the overall setup felt like a step above camping while still keeping you close to nature.What made it worth it was the location… just steps from Lake McDonald, with easy access to trails, boat rentals, and the lodge restaurant. It was quiet at night, and we were able to sit outside and enjoy the stars without much noise around us.If you’re expecting high-end finishes or a hotel-style experience, you might be disappointed. But if you’re looking for a simple, convenient place to sleep that keeps you inside the park and close to everything, it’s a good option. Not the best I’ve stayed in, but not terrible either… I’d stay again just for the location.

I both stayed in the cabins, and ate at the restaurant. The cabins are small but the bathrooms are a decent size. The restaurant is excellent, with a wide variety of food at a very reasonable prices for the location. There is a fantastic view of lake McDonald, which you may be able to enjoy, depending on which table you get in the dining room. The service staff here is excellent, providing attentive service and is very quick.

Had a wonderful breakfast here while visiting Glacier National Park in Montana. Breakfast is served either as buffet or ale cart. Am thinking our entrees were leftovers from the buffet. Still good. Beautiful building. Well preserved. Bathrooms were clean. Staff was friendly and professional. Unfortunately we didn’t stay overnight but enjoyed our breakfast.

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