Lake McDonald Lodge Beach is my favorite spot in Glacier National Park for a wedding. If you’re looking for gorgeous towering mountains and stunning lake views look no further! Lake McDonald is near the West entrance of Glacier National Park so it is accessible even when most of the rest of the park is closed for snow. If you’ve already fallen in love with the park your first step is to apply for a ceremony permit, the application fee is $125.
![Bride and Groom walking on Lake McDonald Lodge Beach after their wedding ceremony.](https://makaylamcgarvey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DSC09384-1024x683.jpg)
Glacier National Park Information
There are many places to get married in Glacier National Park. Here is a blog post with a list of all of your other options! In general if you’re looking for the least crowded option, I recommend planning your wedding for sunrise on a week day. The photos in this guide are from a March wedding and showcase gorgeous snowcapped mountains on a chilly morning. There are permits available all year round in the park for ceremonies but be weary of the weather. July and August are typically the best time of year for warmer weather but if you can brave the snow it can make for an unforgettable experience!
![bride and groom getting married on lake mcdonald beach](https://makaylamcgarvey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DSC08715-683x1024.jpg)
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Lake McDonald Beach
There is no better place for a wedding ceremony than surrounded by the mountains with the iconic rainbow rocks below your feet. This lake is the largest in Glacier National Park and is fed by the glaciers so the water can be chilly. It is definitely a popular spot for swimming in the warmer months though with it being low in elevation. The beach is beautiful but don’t go here expecting to see smooth sand. The beach is full of beautifully colored pebbles so boots or sandals are a must. You won’t want to plan on wearing heels with your dress here! There are 12 options for locations to have a wedding ceremony at Lake McDonald but my personal favorite is Lake McDonald Lodge Beach. It’s easy access and location make it a great spot for a sunrise ceremony.
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![](https://makaylamcgarvey.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DSC09323-683x1024.jpg)
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If you are ready to start planning or have more questions about getting married in Montana send us a message! We would love to photograph your elopement at Glacier National Park!