Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald

Lake McDonald, Montana

4.8/5

based on 5 reviews

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Lake McDonald is the largest lake in Glacier National Park with views of a vast forest and massive peaks.

Lake McDonald doesn't offer the close-up views of glaciers and mountains like some of the other spots in Glacier NP, but it does offer sweeping views of park's west side. The most popular spot to photograph this grand perspective is along the southwest beach and dock.

The dock makes the most interesting subject, but after parking walk along the shore and look for interesting rocks or boats to include in the foreground; if you visit in the winter, ice and cracks make for an even more compelling shot. Sunset's here tend to provide the best results, but with the right clouds, sunrises can be great too.

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Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald Reviews

Natalie F

Explorer

Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald

07/26/20

Spend some time here while in Glacier, walk around, picnic, relax. This lake is gorgeous, add the mountain backdrop and it's hard to beat!

5.0

Explorer

Sarah Gooch

Explorer

Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald

09/18/16

I didn't plan to catch the sunset at Lake McDonald, but as I was driving out of the park, I just had to stop to watch the show. There were plenty of spots to park alongside the road, so I found an open space and walked down to the shore. I had the place all to myself; a perfect way to end a day of hiking!

5.0

Explorer

Gavin Pirrie

Explorer

Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald

09/02/16

Sunrise and sunset at Lake McDonald has never disappointed me. Even in the pouring rain, the sunset still amazes all who stick it out. Don't let bad weather deter your visit for sunrise or sunset.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald

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Apgar Beach at Lake McDonald Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Bike Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park

Hike to the Mt. Brown Lookout

Backpack to Lincoln Lake

Trail of the Cedars

Trail of the Cedars

Avalanche Lake via Trail of Cedars

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