McDonald Creek Trail
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Table of contents
McDonald Creek Trail is a family-friendly trail that has many highlights. Traveling through lush green forests, you will discover McDonald Falls rushing through the rock formations. You will also get to see views from Avalanche Creek Outlook, which showcases beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Route Description for McDonald Creek Trail
McDonald Creek Trail is a family-friendly hike through nature, beginning down a gravel path through the forest. After 0.3 miles, you will reach the spectacular McDonald Falls, and 0.3 km further, you will reach the horse path junction. Continue straight and follow the Upper McDonald Creek Trail. When you have hiked for another 0.4 km, you will reach the Sacred Dancing Cascades, which are known for their Kootenai saying “A good place to dance”.
After hiking 2.3 km, you will arrive at a large wetland area, and just a bit further lies the Avalanche Creek Lookout. Take your time exploring this area, and then head back the way you came as this is an out-and-back trail.
Getting to the McDonald Creek Trail Trailhead
To get to McDonald Creek Trail from Lake McDonald Lodge, head eastbound on the Going-to-the-Sun Road for 2.4 km. Turning left on North Lake McDonald Road, the trailhead will come up on the right side of the road after 0.5 km.
Route Information
When to do:
April - October
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back
McDonald Creek Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
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