
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.
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.
✅ 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.
Lake McDonald lake views, Mountain views
Historic Swiss chalet architecture
Best for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a historic lodge experience within the park.
Peak season is July and August within the May 15 to Sept 28 operation window.
Russell's Fireside Dining Room—on site restaurant and bar.
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.
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.
Free self-parking is available, usually near the accommodation; may require a short walk.
Address
288 Lake McDonald Ldg Lp, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA
To Park Center
15-20 minutes to Glacier National Park Entrance Station
To Nearest Town
10-15 minutes to West Glacier
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.
Lake McDonald, Sperry Trailhead, Lodge dining facilities, Campstore
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."
Advantage Consulting (Dustin Kearl)
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.
Francis Irwin
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.
Lisa Carmichael
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.
Showing 3 of 1559 reviews
WiFi is available in the lobby only with very limited bandwidth.
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.
Check in is after 4:00 PM and check out is by 11:00 AM.
Season runs mid May to late September; peak months are July and August.
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