Natural swimming hole
Lake McDonald
Lake · Montana
About this swimming hole
The largest lake in Glacier National Park, where NPS explicitly designates beaches for swimming near Apgar. Visitors report people swimming despite the cold, and boat tours run from the village dock. This is a polar-plunge swim — the water rarely leaves the 50s even in August.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 55 |
| Depth | Very deep glacial lake |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | Glacier NP entrance fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight |
| Parking | Apgar and pullout parking |
| Amenities | Boat tours, rentals, campgrounds nearby |
| County | Flathead County |
| Nearest town | Apgar |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; extremely cold glacial water; NPS maintains a no-wake zone near the swimming beaches |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lake McDonald?
Yes — Lake McDonald is listed as a natural swimming spot in Montana. Reported water temperature: 55. Heads-up: No lifeguard; extremely cold glacial water; NPS maintains a no-wake zone near the swimming beaches. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Lake McDonald require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lake McDonald based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lake McDonald?
Reported fee info: Glacier NP entrance fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake McDonald?
The best season is typically July-September.