Lake McDonald Lodge
Historic lodge on Glacier's largest lake, offering rustic charm, stunning views, and a gateway to adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene lake, fewer crowds
Lake McDonald Lodge
Best Time
Serene lake, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic lodge on Glacier's largest lake, offering rustic charm, stunning views, and a gateway to adventure.
"The location of Lake McDonald Lodge is absolutely unbeatable, offering incredible views and immediate access to one of the most beautiful parts of Glacier National Park."
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is limited and fills quickly. Arrive early or consider shuttle options if possible.
🛶 Boat Rentals
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or motorboats to explore the vast lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Lodge Ambiance
Main Lodge
Experience rustic charm with hand-painted lamps and vaulted ceilings. A truly authentic park lodge feel.
Lake McDonald Views
Lakeshore
Wake up to stunning lake vistas and colorful rocks. Perfect for peaceful mornings and evening strolls.
Vintage Piano Melodies
Lobby
Listen to enchanting piano music on a 1914 vintage piano, often playing movie themes.
Russell's Fireside Dining
Restaurant
Enjoy delicious meals with potential lake views. Huckleberry pie is a must-try!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Lake McDonald Lodge
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is limited and fills quickly. Arrive early or consider shuttle options if possible.
🛶 Boat Rentals
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or motorboats to explore the vast lake.
🎶 Live Piano Music
Catch a performance on the vintage piano in the lobby for a unique experience.
🥧 Huckleberry Pie
Don't miss the delicious homemade huckleberry pie at the dining room.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is limited and fills quickly. Arrive early or consider shuttle options if possible.
🛶 Boat Rentals
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or motorboats to explore the vast lake.
🎶 Live Piano Music
Catch a performance on the vintage piano in the lobby for a unique experience.
🥧 Huckleberry Pie
Don't miss the delicious homemade huckleberry pie at the dining room.
🏊♀️ Cold Water Dip
Join the tradition of jumping into the cold lake at the end of the season!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake McDonald Lodge offers an unbeatable location with stunning lake views and incredibly friendly staff. While the historic charm is a major draw, guests should be prepared for rustic accommodations and potential crowds. The dining is highly praised, especially the huckleberry pie, making it a memorable, albeit not luxurious, stay.
"Fantastic stay here! Entire staff was wonderful to us. We were welcomed like “royalty” by the bellman, and the front desk employee. Gorgeous decor in lobby— hand painted lamps hanging from vault beamed ceiling( so beautiful and authentic) atmosphere very rustic— just like we hoped for! Our dinner in the mail dining room was so delicious— we just complimented our server like crazy about the taste of our dinner. We ate the local fish, and our dessert was huckleberry pie— so fresh and homemade. Excellent gift shop appearance and selections. We love to shop.
Our evening boat tour of lake McDonald was peaceful and loved seeing the multiple bald eagles. We also loved kayaking the lake for several hours. I just cannot say enough great things about our time in the McDonald lodge. We can’t wait to come back!"
Renee Evers
"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."
Advantage Consulting (Dustin Kearl)
"The location of Lake McDonald Lodge is absolutely unbeatable. Sitting right on the shore of the lake, it offers incredible views and immediate access to one of the most beautiful parts of Glacier National Park. Waking up to that scenery is something truly special. The staff deserve a lot of praise — every interaction we had was warm, friendly, and genuinely helpful. They clearly care about making guests feel welcome.
That being said, the lodge is definitely showing its age. While the historic charm is part of its appeal, the rooms and beds are in real need of investment. The mattresses are worn, the furnishings feel tired, and the overall room setup could use an update to make overnight stays more comfortable, especially given the price point. For many guests, a good night’s sleep is just as important as the scenery, and this is an area where the lodge could make a big impact with some improvements.
Another consideration is how busy it gets. During our stay, the lodge felt extremely crowded, and at times it seemed like they are struggling to balance the needs of overnight guests with the large number of visitors who just come to look around. This can take away from the sense of peace you might expect from such a beautiful setting.
The boat dock is located directly in front of the lodge. While it’s convenient for tours, it does detract a little from the otherwise serene lakeside view. Parking is another challenge — the lot is small, fills up quickly, and can make arrival or day trips more stressful than they should be.
Overall, Lake McDonald Lodge is worth visiting for its location and wonderful staff. However, guests should be prepared for crowds, parking challenges, and rooms that feel more rustic than comfortable. With some investment in the rooms and beds, this could easily become not just a beautiful place to stay, but one that delivers a truly top-tier lodging experience in Glacier National Park."
Katharina Rundmund
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kalispell, you'll drive east on US-2 E towards Glacier National Park. Lake McDonald Lodge is located along the Going-to-the-Sun Road on the west side of the park. Be aware that parking can be challenging, especially during peak season.
Glacier National Park offers a free shuttle system during the summer months, which can be a great way to access Lake McDonald Lodge and other popular areas without worrying about parking. Check the park's official website for current shuttle routes and schedules.
Access to Lake McDonald Lodge in winter is limited. The Going-to-the-Sun Road typically closes to vehicles in the fall due to snow. While some areas may be accessible by snowshoe or cross-country skis, the lodge itself is generally not accessible by car during the winter months.
Parking at Lake McDonald Lodge is notoriously limited and fills up very quickly, especially during peak season. If you have a tour reservation, arrive well in advance to secure a spot. Consider using the park shuttle if available.
No, Lake McDonald Lodge is not accessible by car year-round. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, which provides access, is typically closed from late October to late May or early June due to snow.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Glacier National Park entrance pass is required for all visitors. You can purchase passes online in advance or at park entrance stations.
No, there are no separate tickets required for Lake McDonald Lodge itself. Your Glacier National Park entrance pass grants you access to the park and its facilities, including the lodge grounds. However, specific activities like boat tours may require separate booking.
Lake McDonald Lodge typically operates seasonally, from late spring through early fall. The lodge, dining room, and gift shop will have specific operating hours that vary. It's best to check the official Glacier National Park website for the most up-to-date information on seasonal operations.
Yes, Lake McDonald Lodge offers various tours, including evening boat tours on Lake McDonald. These are popular and often require advance booking.
The entrance fee is for Glacier National Park as a whole. Once inside the park, you can access Lake McDonald and its lodge without additional entry fees, though specific activities like boat rentals or tours will have separate costs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At Lake McDonald Lodge, you can enjoy boat rentals (kayaks, paddleboards, motorboats), scenic boat tours, hiking nearby trails, and simply relax by the lake. The historic lodge itself offers a unique atmosphere with its lobby and dining options.
Yes, there are several hiking trails accessible from or near Lake McDonald Lodge. The Avalanche Lake trail is a popular option, and the lodge is also a starting point for biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road when it's open.
Lake McDonald is known for its incredibly clear, cold water and its famously colorful rocks. Dipping your hand into the water is a refreshing experience, and the vibrant hues of the stones are a major draw. +2
Yes, you can swim in Lake McDonald, but be prepared for very cold water, even in the summer! It's a bracing experience that many visitors enjoy. +1
The atmosphere is rustic and historic, with a strong connection to nature. Visitors often describe it as charming and authentic, though accommodations are not luxurious. The staff are noted for being friendly and welcoming.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Lake McDonald Lodge features Russell's Fireside Dining Room, offering a variety of dishes, and a more casual buffet option. The dining room is praised for its excellent food and attentive service, with huckleberry pie being a highlight.
Yes, Russell's Fireside Dining Room is the main restaurant at Lake McDonald Lodge, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a buffet option available.
Reviews consistently praise the food at Lake McDonald Lodge, particularly at Russell's Fireside Dining Room. Dishes are described as delicious and well-prepared, with local specialties like huckleberry pie being a standout.
While specific menus can change seasonally, national park lodges often offer vegetarian options. It's recommended to check the current menu or speak with your server at Russell's Fireside Dining Room regarding vegan or specific dietary needs.
Yes, Apgar Village, located near Lake McDonald Lodge, is known for its ice cream shops, making it a popular evening stop for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spots include the colorful rocks along the lakeshore, the historic lodge itself, and panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Sunrises and sunsets over Lake McDonald are particularly stunning.
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors. Midday can be harsh, but the colorful rocks are always a vibrant subject.
Yes, you can take photos inside the public areas of Lake McDonald Lodge, such as the lobby, to capture its historic architecture and ambiance. Be mindful of other guests and any posted photography restrictions.
Drone usage is restricted in most national parks, including Glacier National Park, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's essential to check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the lake and rocks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lodge rooms are rustic, the cabins offer a bit more space and privacy for families. The buffet dining option can be a good choice for picky eaters, and the chance to see wildlife like eagles on a boat tour is always exciting. Remember to pack layers, as mountain weather can change quickly, and be prepared for the very cold water if your kids are brave enough for a swim!
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and picnic lunches can significantly reduce food costs, as dining within the park can be expensive. Take advantage of the free park shuttle if available to save on gas and parking fees. Enjoying the natural attractions like hiking and the colorful lake rocks are all free activities that offer immense value.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Russell's Fireside Dining Room, perhaps sharing a slice of the famous huckleberry pie. The historic ambiance of the lodge, with its cozy common areas and the enchanting live piano music, adds to the romantic appeal. Consider booking a cabin for a more private and intimate stay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Accommodations at Lake McDonald Lodge
While the accommodations are basic, they serve their purpose for travelers who prioritize being immersed in the national park experience. The cabins, in particular, are described as a step up from camping, offering essential comforts while keeping you close to nature. The lodge's historic lobby, with its hand-painted lamps and vaulted ceilings, adds to the unique atmosphere, making it a memorable place to stay despite any minor shortcomings in room amenities.
It's important for potential guests to manage expectations regarding the rooms. If you're seeking a high-end, modern hotel experience, Lake McDonald Lodge might not be the best fit. However, for those who appreciate history, incredible natural beauty, and a true national park lodge ambiance, it offers a charming and convenient base for exploring Glacier National Park.
Exploring Lake McDonald
The water itself is renowned for its crystal-clear quality and bracing cold temperature. Swimming in Lake McDonald is a quintessential Glacier experience, though be prepared for a refreshing dip! For a more relaxed perspective, consider an evening boat tour, which offers peaceful views of the surrounding mountains and a chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles.
Beyond water activities, the lake serves as a gateway to hiking and scenic drives. The lodge is a starting point for accessing trails like Avalanche Lake and is situated along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Whether you're paddling, swimming, or simply admiring the view, Lake McDonald provides a serene and visually captivating experience.
Dining and Culinary Delights
A standout item that receives consistent praise is the homemade huckleberry pie. Given that huckleberries are a local delicacy in Montana, this dessert is a must-try for anyone dining at the lodge. Beyond the main dining room, a buffet option is also available, offering a convenient choice for those seeking a quicker meal.
While the lodge focuses on providing a quality dining experience, it's worth noting that prices can be higher due to the remote location within a national park. However, many reviewers feel the quality of the food and the overall ambiance justify the cost, making it a memorable part of their stay.
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