Glacier National Park
Lake McDonald

At ten miles long, over 1 mile wide and with a depth of 472 feet, Lake McDonald is the largest lake in Glacier National Park. High peaks surround the lake showing how powerful the glaciers were to carve out this valley that the lake rests in.

Lake McDonald is located in Flathead County west of the Continental Divide. The infamous Going-to-the-Sun Road follows the southern shoreline of the lake. The Apgar Visitor Center is found at the western section of the lake.

For those who love to fish, this lake is full of a variety of trout, such as rainbow, cutthroat and bull trout. In addition to fishing, this lake is a spectacular place to view all kinds of wildlife including moose, mule deer, grizzlies and black bears.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Lake McDonald Lodge. On the northern shore of  Lake McDonald near the West Entrance.

Built in 1913 as a hunting lodge, Lake McDonald Lodge offers 100 rooms that are a combination of motel, lodge, and cabin accommodations. Nightly Park Ranger talks, cruises on the lake and fishing are some of the favorite activities available at the hotel. Food and beverage options include Russell's Fireside Dining Room, Jammer Joe's Grill and Pizzeria and Lucke's Lounge.

Lake McDonald Lodge. On the northern shore of Lake McDonald near the West entrance at 100 Going to the Sun Road, Glacier National Park, MT 59936. Reservations: 1-800-299-0396. GPS: 48.617279,-113.878934.

Campgrounds and RV Parks

  • Apgar Campground: Located near Apgar Village and approximately 2 miles from the West entrance and 47 miles from the St. Mary entrance, this is the largest campground in the park. 194 sites including 25 RV sites (up to 40 feet), 10 group sites (up to 24 people), picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, restrooms with flush toilets and sinks with running water, no showers and a disposal station, on-site campground host. GPS: 48.525, -113.98361.
  • Avalanche Campground: Located west of the Continental Divide approximately 15 miles from the West entrance and 34 miles from St. Mary entrance. 87 sites including 50 RV sites (up to 26 feet), potable water, restrooms with flush toilets and sinks with running water, no showers and no disposal station.
  • Fish Creek: Located a couple of miles from Apgar Village off Camas Road approximately 5 miles from the West entrance and 50 miles from the St. Mary entrance. Second largest campground in the park. 178 sites including 18 RV sites (up to 35 feet), potable water, restrooms with flush toilets and sinks with running water, showers and disposal station. Reservations are accepted. GPS: 48.54778, -113.98528.
  • Sprague Creek Campground: Located on the northeast shore of Lake McDonald near Lake McDonald Lodge approximately 10 miles from the West entrance and 40 miles from the St. Mary entrance. 25 sites, restrooms with flush toilets and sinks with running water, no showers or disposal station, picnic area.

ACTIVITIES

Tours

Red Bus Tours
The famous Red Buses takes you on an interpretive round-trip tour of Glacier National Park where you'll learn the history and heritage of the park while witnessing some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife. Tours depart from both the east and west sides of the park.

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