Apgar Village is a charming and picturesque destination located within Glacier National Park in the northern Rocky Mountains of Montana, USA. Nestled on the southern shore of Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park, Apgar serves as one of the main gateways to this iconic national park, offering a range of facilities and services for visitors.

History

The village itself has deep historical roots, with its origins tracing back to the early days of Glacier National Park’s development in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Apgar was initially a homestead and later evolved as a stop for visitors heading into the park. The area was named after Peter Apgar, a well-known homesteader, whose contributions to the area’s development played a significant role in its transformation into a popular point of access to the park.

Going To the Sun Road

Location & Natural Beauty

Apgar Village sits at an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet (914 meters), offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. On the one side, the calm waters of Lake McDonald reflect the towering peaks of the Livingston Range, while the dense forests surrounding the village provide a rich backdrop of lush greenery.

The area is renowned for its pristine scenery, with dense forests of pine, fir, and spruce trees. The nearby Lake McDonald is particularly famous for its strikingly clear waters, which often display deep emerald or turquoise hues, depending on the sunlight. The lake is also home to various wildlife species, such as trout, making it a popular spot for fishing and boating.

Services and Facilities

Apgar Village serves as a convenient base for park visitors and offers a range of services, including:

• Visitor Center: The Apgar Visitor Center provides important information, maps, and educational displays about Glacier National Park, its ecosystems, and wildlife.

• Lodging: There are a few accommodations in the area, but of course, we recommend West Glacier Bear Cabin. Located away from the bigger crowds of Apgar, it is also one of the few places that has air conditioning. And, most importantly, our guests get unlimited use of 3 kayaks, 2 paddleboards and 4 e-bikes.  However, if you’re a camper, visitors have the option to camp in the nearby Apgar Campground, which is a popular choice for those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience. Be sure to get your slot booked for camping early. These book up very fast!

• Shops and Restaurants: The village features general stores, gift shops, and dining options where guests can enjoy a meal or pick up souvenirs. These spots offer a cozy and casual atmosphere, with many dishes highlighting local ingredients and flavors.

• Boat Rentals: The shores of Lake McDonald provide opportunities for boating, and visitors can rent rowboats, kayaks, and canoes from local vendors in the village. (Remember with us, you have the kayaks included! It’s perfect for sunrise or sunset paddles. You’ll never forget seeing and hearing the park as it awakens.)

• Guided Tours: Apgar Village is also a starting point for various guided tours, such as boat tours on Lake McDonald, ranger-led hikes, and interpretive programs. These tours offer insights into the natural and cultural history of Glacier National Park.

Outdoor Activities and Recreation

Apgar Village is ideally located for exploring Glacier National Park’s vast wilderness. The village provides easy access to several hiking trails, including the Lake McDonald Trail, which offers a relatively easy path along the shoreline of the lake. There are also more challenging hikes in the area, such as those leading up to Avalanche Lake or McDonald Falls.

In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities:

• Fishing: Lake McDonald is a great spot for fishing, with opportunities to catch rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and other species.
• Wildlife Watching: The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, and various species of birds. Always keep your distance and be safe.  Check out some very great outdoor tips HERE.
• Photography: Apgar Village’s stunning landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset, provide excellent opportunities for nature photography.

Seasonal Considerations

Like much of Glacier National Park, some of Apgar Village is open seasonally. Most amenities are available from mid-June to mid-September. However, limited services may be available in the off-season.  Plan what you can, but remember, the weather can be unpredictable. Winter brings cold temperatures and heavy snowfall.

If you want to see current conditions, click HERE to see the latest from the Park Service. Or, check out the Park’s webcams HERE

Apgar Village is an essential and inviting entry point for anyone visiting Glacier National Park. With its scenic location by Lake McDonald, range of services, and proximity to some of the park’s most stunning natural landscapes, it’s the perfect spot to begin an adventure into one of America’s most breathtaking wilderness areas. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing stay by the lake, explore miles of hiking trails, or immerse yourself in the park’s rich natural beauty, Apgar offers something for everyone.

Vehicle Reservations for the Going-To-The-Sun Road

Don’t forget, that if you want to drive the GTTSR, you must get a reservation. For information and reservations, click HERE to be taken to the Park’s information & reservation page. The park is OPEN to Apgar and does NOT require a reservation.

When you’re ready to book your Glacier National Park vacation, choose West Glacier Bear Cabin. Our on-site kayaks, paddleboards & e-bikes are all waiting for you! (Yes, we have life jackets and bike helmets on-site too.) The blue chairs by the fire pit are always a welcome sign to our returning guests so they know they’re steps away from a memorable vacation!

Are you ready to make some great Montana memories?

Click HERE to book!