Glacier National Park

Lake McDonald Lodge opened its doors on June 14, 1914 and is one of the finest examples of a Swiss Chalet hotel remaining in the United States.  Lake McDonald Lodge is a three story structure built on the eastern shore of glaciated, picturesque Lake McDonald.  The lobby is a large open space with balconies surrounding the upper portions of the lobby on three sides.

The floors of the lobby have incised messages in Kootenai (a local Native American dialect) that translate into phrases such as "welcome", "new life to those who drink here", "looking toward the mountain", and "big feast".  The main lodge was declared a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places on May 28, 1987.

This picturesque location on the northern shore of beautiful Lake McDonald has 100 guest rooms split between a main lodge, a row of duplex-style cabins, and a two-story 1950s era motor inn. All guestrooms at Lake McDonald are rustic, yet comfortable. In keeping in the era in which all the rooms were built, they offer guests modest amenities and old-world style accommodations resulting in a one-of-a kind, National Park lodging experience.

Lounging on the Lodge’s lakeside veranda with a favorite beverage is a popular leisure activity for guests. While out on the porch, watch visitors fish for Lake Trout, skip stones, swim and play in the lake, come and go on the historic wooden boat “DeSmet”, photo journal, or just laze around in this incredibly scenic setting. The Lodge complex tends to fill up quickly in the summer, so plan on booking early or consider visiting in the spring and fall.

This location presents visitors with a unique gift shop, campstore, Jammer Joe's Grill and Pizzeria, Lucke's Lounge, and Russell’s Fireside Dining Room. Red Bus tours, boat cruises, evening ranger programs, and numerous other activities are available at this stunning lakeside setting.

An ATM is available in the lobby. A limited number of ADA- accessible rooms are available and are booked based on a space available basis. Only designated guide, service, and/or hearing companion animals are allowed in the hotel.

Main Lodge

Towering Cedars and Cottonwood trees surround the main lodge. Lodge rooms primarily face this inland rain forest setting with obstructed views. There is no elevator but the bell staff is available to assist with luggage. Most rooms do not have an accessible exterior balcony.  All Lodge rooms have a private bathroom and parking is available in the main lot located approximately 100 yards from the Lodge.

Duplex to Six-plex Cabins

Located along a tree-lined pathway adjacent to the Lodge, there is a row of early 1900’s-era cabins. Most cabin rooms face the forest setting with obstructed views. Each shares a common wall and a few share a small porch. There are no connecting doors between cabin rooms. All cabin rooms have a private bathroom and parking is usually available directly behind or beside the cabin.

Motor Inn

The Motor Inn is comprised of two, 2-story buildings and it is tucked quaintly back in the trees near the Campstore. The Motor Inn is located about 300 yards from the Main Lodge with the 2nd level accessed via stairs only. All rooms have a private bathroom and there are no connecting rooms.  Parking is limited and available on a first come basis in front of the motor inn rooms.

Russell's Fireside Dining Room Menus
Breakfast Buffet
Lunch
Dinner
Jammer Joe's Grill and Pizzeria Lunch/Dinner

Location

Lake McDonald Lodge is located in the southwestern region of Glacier National Park along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. From West Glacier, enter Glacier National Park. From the entrance ranger station, proceed approximately 1.3 miles to a stop sign and turn right. Continue 8.9 miles on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The lodge will have signage and you will make a left turn into the parking lot.

From St. Mary, travel west on the Going-to-the-Sun Road approximately 39.4 miles.  The lodge will have signage and you will make a right turn into the parking lot. Check-in for all accommodations is located inside of the lodge at the front desk.

Fun Facts

1. The staff would love to take you on a tour of the property - inquire about the tour times with the Front Desk or Concierge
2. The Front Desk has a hand-drawn map for you of the Animal Mounts adorning the lobby - ask for your copy
3. The Evening Ranger/Naturalist Program is very informative - we suggest attending it
4. We employ 150 men and women from the USA and all over the world to enhance your stay in Glacier National Park.