Hiking McDonald Creek Trail – A Scenic Year-Round Option in Glacier

McDonald Creek Trail is a scenic 5.6-mile out-and-back hike located on the west side of Glacier National Park, not far from the Lake McDonald Lodge. This easy trail is ideal for hikers of all ages and experience levels, making it a great choice for a leisurely nature walk or a peaceful stroll along a rushing mountain stream.

Trail Overview

The trail follows the north bank of McDonald Creek, offering consistent views of the crystal-clear water and surrounding forest. You’ll start your hike near the Lake McDonald area and almost immediately enter a quiet, wooded corridor that runs alongside the creek.

The first notable landmark comes just 0.7 miles in: McDonald Falls. Depending on the time of year, the volume of water can vary dramatically. In spring, fueled by snowmelt and runoff, the falls are particularly powerful and loud. In late summer and fall, they run more gently but are still a beautiful sight.

Continuing on, the next feature is Sacred Dancing Cascades, a picturesque series of small, tiered waterfalls tumbling through the creek. It’s a great spot to stop for a few photos or just enjoy the sound of the water.

The trail continues until you reach a viewpoint across from the McDonald Creek Overlook, which marks the turnaround point.

Seasonal Tips

We hiked McDonald Creek Trail in late November, a time when most of Glacier National Park is inaccessible due to snow and seasonal road closures. This trail, however, remains accessible even when Going-to-the-Sun Road is mostly closed. That makes it one of the best shoulder-season hikes in the park, perfect for winter and early spring outings.

In summer, the area sees much heavier foot traffic, especially with its proximity to Lake McDonald Lodge and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. To avoid the crowds, plan your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Final Thoughts

While McDonald Creek Trail may not be at the top of most hikers’ lists during the busy summer season, when high alpine trails open up, this hike truly shines in the offseason. If you’re visiting Glacier when other areas are closed or snow-covered, McDonald Creek Trail offers a peaceful and rewarding experience close to the park’s west entrance.

Whether you’re a local looking for a low-effort winter hike or a visitor seeking a quieter side of Glacier, this trail is a reliable option with plenty of scenic payoffs.