Lake McDonald

Lake McDonald is the largest water body in Glacier National Park, stretching ten miles in length and reaching depths of 472 feet (144 meters). The lake sits in a deep valley surrounded by steep mountainsides that form the park's most prominent water feature.

The lake basin formed through extensive glacial carving during the Ice Age, which created the characteristic U-shaped valley seen today. This same glacial activity sculpted the surrounding peaks and shaped the entire landscape of the park region.

The lodge built in 1913 blends American Western and Swiss architectural styles, reflecting how early park visitors imagined mountain retreats. The structure remains a focal point where guests experience the park's heritage through its design and setting.

Four campgrounds sit near the lake (Apgar, Avalanche, Fish Creek, and Sprague Creek), each offering basic facilities for overnight camping. The best visiting window is late spring through early fall when the access roads are open and weather is mild.

Dense forests of western red cedar and hemlock surround the shoreline, sheltering mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and black bears. These tree-filled banks create quiet, shaded edges that contrast with the open water and enhance the feeling of wilderness that visitors experience when exploring the shore.

Location: Flathead County

Elevation above the sea: 960 m

GPS coordinates: 48.56920,-113.93500

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:00