Upper McDonald Creek Trail

The Upper McDonald Creek Trail is generally rated as moderate, but it's very accessible and considered family-friendly. With minimal elevation changes and a well-maintained path, it's suitable for most hikers, including those with children, who are comfortable walking a few miles at a steady pace. The first section up to Lower McDonald Falls is even ADA compliant.

You'll primarily follow a gravel footpath winding through a dense, old-growth forest. The path is relatively level with gentle ups and downs, running alongside McDonald Creek. Expect to encounter some roots and rocks. It can be muddy, especially in the spring, due to its location at the base of Stanton Mountain and along the creek.

The trail is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. You'll be immersed in an inland Pacific rainforest environment with towering red cedars and western hemlocks. Key highlights include the spectacular McDonald Falls, the Sacred Dancing Cascades, and consistent views of the crystal-clear, glacial blue waters of McDonald Creek. Don't miss the Upper McDonald Creek Bridge View, and further along, you'll get glimpses of 8952-foot Mount Cannon.

This trail is a great option for shoulder seasons as it often becomes snow-free earlier in the spring than many other park trails and remains accessible even when the Going-to-the-Sun Road is largely closed. It offers a tranquil experience during winter and early spring when other areas are snow-covered. Summer and fall also provide beautiful conditions, with varying creek volumes.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on hiking trails in Glacier National Park, including the Upper McDonald Creek Trail. This policy helps protect wildlife and ensures a natural experience for all visitors. Service animals are an exception.

The Upper McDonald Creek Trail is located within Glacier National Park, so you will need to pay the park entrance fee. During peak season (typically late May through early September), a vehicle reservation system may also be in place for certain areas of the park, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor. Always check the official Glacier National Park website for the most current entrance fees and reservation requirements before your visit.

The trail can be accessed from multiple points. A common starting point is near the Apgar Village area or the Lake McDonald Lodge area. Parking can be limited during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. Glacier National Park also operates a shuttle system during the summer months, which can help with access to trailheads and reduce parking stress.

While heavily trafficked areas might limit sightings of larger animals, the wetland areas along the trail are known moose habitats, offering a chance to spot these magnificent creatures. In the spring, you might also see harlequin ducks in the creek. Always maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter.

Yes, the route intersects with several other official trails. You'll find sections that overlap with the Avalanche Campground Trail, the McDonald Horse Trail, the McDonald Creek Cutoff, and the Avalanche Cutoff. These connections offer opportunities to extend your hike or explore different areas of the park.

To avoid the busiest times and secure parking, it's highly recommended to arrive at the trailhead early in the morning, especially during peak season. Alternatively, utilizing Glacier National Park's shuttle system, if available, can alleviate parking concerns and provide convenient access to the trail.

The Upper McDonald Creek Trail is primarily an out-and-back trail. While it connects to other paths, the main route along McDonald Creek is designed for you to hike to a certain point and then return the way you came.