Glacier National Park guide · 1 min read
Lake McDonald: The Park's Largest Lake
Lake McDonald runs ten miles end to end and reaches almost 500 feet at its deepest point, making it the largest lake in Glacier National Park.
For most visitors coming in through the West Entrance, it is the first glacial lake they see. Thousands of years ago, enormous glaciers scoured out the wide, U-shaped valley the lake now fills. The surrounding peaks still carry the marks of that work, proof that moving ice could grind down even the toughest stone.
Colorful pebbles line the shore, and photographers return to this stretch of beach again and again. In the evening, many people walk back down to the water's edge to watch the sun set over the lake.
The historic Lake McDonald Lodge stands along the shore. It went up in 1913 and 1914, designed to resemble a rustic hunting retreat with a Swiss flavor. The lodge is worth a visit even if you are not staying overnight. The property also includes a separate camp store, gift shops and several places to eat: Russell's Fireside Dining Room, Jammer Joe's Grill and Pizzeria, and Lucke's Lounge.
From the lodge dock, you can join a scenic boat tour or rent a boat of your own. Paddle boarding and canoeing are also popular ways to get out on the lake at your own pace.
Directly across the road from the lodge, the Sperry trailhead is the starting point for several well-used hikes. One-way distances include 2.9 miles to Fish Lake, 4.4 miles to Snyder Lakes, 5.3 miles to Mount Brown Lookout and 6.4 miles to Sperry Chalet. If you would rather ride, Swan Mountain Outfitters leads horseback rides from the Lake McDonald Corral.
