Lake Mcdonald Lodge West Glacier

Lake McDonald Lodge & Complex is located inside Glacier National Park on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, approximately eleven miles inside the west entrance to the park. Built in 1914 by furrier, John Lewis, Lake McDonald Lodge is one of the finest remaining examples of a Swiss-chalet style hotel. The lodge has a rustic architecture with clipped gable roofs, balconies, and jigsaw details. The interior of the lodge is decorated with Lewis's hunting trophies, and as legend has it, pictographs that were drawn by Western artist Charlie Russell. In the early days, guests came by boat, and the original entrance of the lodge faced the lake. Today, almost all of the guests arrive by car, thus the "back" of the lodge has been changed to greet the modern traveler. After a good night's sleep, you might want to enjoy one of the many activities that are available near the lodge. Take a boat tour on the lake, or sign up for a fishing lesson. If you are ready for an adventure, there are horseback riding outfitters who are equipped to take you on pack trips of various lengths. If you would like to explore the Lake McDonald area on your own, there are several hiking trailheads nearby. Avalanche Creek and Mount Brown Lookout trailheads are easy to access from the lodge. Lake McDonald Lodge offers 100 rooms with lodge, motel, and cabin accommodations. You will also find a general store, restaurant, gift shop, and lounge within the complex.