Montana Best Hikes: Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald
Posted on Dec 23, 2009 in Hikes
Our top 5 best Montana hikes in the Lake McDonald region of Glacier
Lake McDonald is truly one of the top places for recreation in Glacier National Park. The lake provides a great backdrop to a number of top hikes throughout this scenic valley. Here are our top 5.
- Sperry Chalet: At 6.4 miles one way and just under 3,500 feet in elevation gain, the Sperry Chalet trail can be tough, but it rewards with great views, and the Chalet, a classic Montana building in the wilderness of Glacier National Park, at the end.
- Trout Lake: It’s only 4.2 miles, but you’ll go up 2,100 feet, and back down 2,100 feet, one way. The views of Lake McDonald at the top are fantastic, and you’ll get a great view of Heaven’s Peak from Trout Lake.
- Apgar Lookout: A historic fire look out, that unfortunately didn’t protect this side of Glacier National Park from the big fires of 2003, but gives great views of Glacier’s southwest side. The hike is 3.3 miles, and rises about 1,900 ft.
- Rocky Point: This is a short hike, perfect for families with children at only 1.1 miles, and little elevation gain, but lots of great views from the quieter side of Lake McDonald, and great chances to see wildlife.
- Snyder Lake: This is a more moderate hike at about 4.4 miles, to one of the most beautiful little lakes in Glacier National Park.
We recommend checking in with an official Glacier National Park guide, or talking to a park ranger before attempting these hikes, in order to get the most up to date information on grizzly sightings, weather and trail closures.
Related posts:
- Montana Best of Hikes: Glacier National Park, Two Medicine
- Montana Best of Hikes: Glacier National Park Many Glacier
- Montana Best of Hikes: Glacier National Park, Logan Pass
- Montana Best of Hikes: Glacier National Park, North Fork
- Montana Weddings: Lake McDonald Lodge
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