Snyder Lake Trail

Overview

Snyder Lake is a solid, moderately strenuous out-and-back that trades crowds for classic Glacier cirque scenery. Expect about 8.6 miles total (round-trip) and roughly 2,000 feet of gain. The trail begins across from Lake McDonald Lodge and climbs steadily through forest, past burn mosaics from the 2017 Sprague Fire, and up the Snyder Creek valley to a dark-green lake surrounded by Mount Brown, Little Matterhorn, and Edwards Mountain.

What You’ll See

Lower down, you’ll move through old-growth cedar, larch, and hemlock. Higher up it transitions to spruce–fir, with sections of open burn that mean less shade but bigger views (look back toward Howe Ridge above Lake McDonald). Wildflowers pop in the more open meadows near the basin. Snyder Lake itself sits in a rugged, glacier-carved cirque, and you’ll often spot waterfalls pouring off the surrounding cliffs. A user path continues along the south shore past the backcountry campground.

Route Notes

Start at the Gunsight Pass/Sperry Trailhead across from the lodge. After about 1.5–1.6 miles you’ll pass the Mount Brown junction; shortly after, turn left for Snyder Lake. The middle and upper miles follow the west side of Snyder Creek, with stretches that are brushy, rocky, and more exposed, including a traverse across talus on Mount Brown’s lower slopes. The maintained trail ends at the lake’s west shore. Strong, experienced hikers sometimes continue off-trail up along Snyder Creek to a waterfall and Upper Snyder Lake—unmaintained, steep, and only if you know what you’re doing.

Difficulty and Conditions

It’s a steady climb, especially early on. The upper half is rougher underfoot and can be hot in sunny weather thanks to fire-thinned canopy. Mosquitoes are common in early summer around the lake. You may share the lower segment with stock; give horses the right of way. Carry plenty of water and sun protection.

Logistics and Access

Parking near Lake McDonald Lodge is notoriously tight in peak season. Arrive early or use the park shuttle from Apgar Visitor Center. There’s a designated backcountry campground at the lake (permit required for overnight use). Pets aren’t allowed on this trail.

History & Geology

The lake and creek are named for George Snyder, an early hotelier on Lake McDonald who helped open the area to visitors in the 1890s. Snyder Lake sits in a classic cirque—an amphitheater carved by glacial ice—ringed by steep walls that feed the lake’s seasonal waterfalls.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through fall. Early season can be especially pleasant before the hottest weeks, but expect mosquitoes near the lake. In summer, start early to beat heat in the burn areas and to find parking. Afternoon sun can be harsh on the upper trail; mornings offer cooler temps and calmer conditions at the lake.