
Lake McDonald
Lake McDonald, a jewel nestled within the pristine landscapes of Flathead County, Montana, is a natural wonder that captivates the heart and soul of all who visit. Encompassing a vast expanse of 6,867 acres and located near the charming village of Apgar, this iconic lake stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty that the region has to offer. Perched at an elevation of 3,148 feet, Lake McDonald presents a unique blend of grandeur and tranquility, inviting visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems and bask in its natural splendor. As the sun rises over the towering peaks that encircle Lake McDonald, the tranquil waters come alive with a symphony of colors. The cerulean blue of the lake perfectly mirrors the skies above, creating an enchanting tableau of reflection and serenity. Nestled within the embrace of the majestic mountains, the lake's rugged shores are home to an array of wildlife and plant species, each adding to the vibrant tapestry of life that flourishes in this corner of Montana. For anglers seeking a memorable experience, Lake McDonald offers an abundance of opportunities. The lake's crystal-clear waters are home to a diverse range of fish species, each presenting its own unique challenge. Whether casting a line for the elusive bull trout, the vibrant kokanee salmon, or the prized lake trout, anglers are treated to an immersive fishing experience. The thrill of reeling in a rainbow trout or encountering the iconic westslope cutthroat trout is matched only by the serene surroundings that Lake McDonald provides. The lake's underwater world is a captivating realm of aquatic diversity. Schools of mountain whitefish glide gracefully beneath the surface, while curious northern pike minnows dart in and out of the submerged vegetation. The elusive pygmy whitefish and the shimmering redside shiner contribute to the delicate balance of the lake's ecosystem. As anglers cast their lines and connect with the rhythm of the water, they become part of a storied tradition that has been woven into the fabric of Montana's wilderness. Lake McDonald's beauty extends beyond its waters. The surrounding landscapes are adorned with lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky slopes that provide a haven for wildlife. The call of a loon echoes across the lake, while the sighting of a bald eagle soaring overhead adds a touch of majesty to the experience. The interplay of light and shadow on the water's surface creates a mesmerizing dance that reflects the dynamic relationship between the lake and the surrounding environment. Whether embarking on a serene boat ride across the tranquil waters or casting a line in pursuit of the lake's prized inhabitants, Lake McDonald offers an unparalleled connection to the natural world. Its elevation of 3,148 feet adds an element of elevation-induced transformation to the experience, reminding us that the pursuit of adventure often leads us to new heights, both physically and spiritually. For those who seek to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of Montana's wilderness, Lake McDonald stands as a timeless invitation to explore, discover, and embrace the awe-inspiring wonders that await at every turn.
Read more
Lake McDonald
Lake McDonald, a jewel nestled within the pristine landscapes of Flathead County, Montana, is a natural wonder that captivates the heart and soul of all who visit. Encompassing a vast expanse of 6,867 acres and located near the charming village of Apgar, this iconic lake stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty that the region has to offer. Perched at an elevation of 3,148 feet, Lake McDonald presents a unique blend of grandeur and tranquility, inviting visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems and bask in its natural splendor. As the sun rises over the towering peaks that encircle Lake McDonald, the tranquil waters come alive with a symphony of colors. The cerulean blue of the lake perfectly mirrors the skies above, creating an enchanting tableau of reflection and serenity. Nestled within the embrace of the majestic mountains, the lake's rugged shores are home to an array of wildlife and plant species, each adding to the vibrant tapestry of life that flourishes in this corner of Montana. For anglers seeking a memorable experience, Lake McDonald offers an abundance of opportunities. The lake's crystal-clear waters are home to a diverse range of fish species, each presenting its own unique challenge. Whether casting a line for the elusive bull trout, the vibrant kokanee salmon, or the prized lake trout, anglers are treated to an immersive fishing experience. The thrill of reeling in a rainbow trout or encountering the iconic westslope cutthroat trout is matched only by the serene surroundings that Lake McDonald provides. The lake's underwater world is a captivating realm of aquatic diversity. Schools of mountain whitefish glide gracefully beneath the surface, while curious northern pike minnows dart in and out of the submerged vegetation. The elusive pygmy whitefish and the shimmering redside shiner contribute to the delicate balance of the lake's ecosystem. As anglers cast their lines and connect with the rhythm of the water, they become part of a storied tradition that has been woven into the fabric of Montana's wilderness. Lake McDonald's beauty extends beyond its waters. The surrounding landscapes are adorned with lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky slopes that provide a haven for wildlife. The call of a loon echoes across the lake, while the sighting of a bald eagle soaring overhead adds a touch of majesty to the experience. The interplay of light and shadow on the water's surface creates a mesmerizing dance that reflects the dynamic relationship between the lake and the surrounding environment. Whether embarking on a serene boat ride across the tranquil waters or casting a line in pursuit of the lake's prized inhabitants, Lake McDonald offers an unparalleled connection to the natural world. Its elevation of 3,148 feet adds an element of elevation-induced transformation to the experience, reminding us that the pursuit of adventure often leads us to new heights, both physically and spiritually. For those who seek to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of Montana's wilderness, Lake McDonald stands as a timeless invitation to explore, discover, and embrace the awe-inspiring wonders that await at every turn.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Current water temperature for Lake McDonald is 39°F.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Tuesday, May 13
Drizzle
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
7:25 AM - 9:55 AM
4:32 PM - 7:02 PM
4:29 AM - 5:59 AM
11:24 AM - 12:54 PM
Outlook for Tuesday at Lake McDonald
Expect temperatures ranging from 37°F to 52°F. There's a 30% chance of rain, potentially bringing around 0.09" rain. Winds will be averaging 3 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 12 mph. The maximum UV index will be 4 (Moderate), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 7:25 AM and 4:32 PM, or try the minor windows near 4:29 AM and 11:24 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Lake McDonald.
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Lake Information
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Lake McDonald
Current Temp
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
33°F
On Jan 5
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
44°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: July (69°F).
- Coolest avg: January (34°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: June → July (+15°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-10°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
205°
Pressure
1006 mb
Cloud Cover
31%
Visibility
18 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Lake McDonald
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