Saint Mary Lake

Saint Mary Lake is a freshwater lake in Glacier National Park, Montana, located along the park’s eastern section and adjacent to the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It is one of the park’s principal scenic lakes and a frequent stop for visitors traveling the main park route.

The lake is noted for the small island known as Wild Goose Island, a focal point for photographers and postcards. Several overlooks along the road provide framed views of the island and the surrounding mountains, with popular vantage points at Sun Point and pullouts along the eastern shoreline.

The basin containing the lake was shaped by glacial activity during the last ice age, forming the steep surrounding walls and cirques. The lake drains via the St. Mary River, which flows east out of the park.

Saint Mary Lake sits in the east-central part of Glacier National Park, near the small community of St. Mary and close to the park’s eastern entrance. The shoreline is flanked by steep mountains and accessed by the park road that runs along its shore.

• Access: Found on the eastern side of Glacier National Park beside the Going-to-the-Sun Road, making it easily accessible by vehicle.
• Best time: Best light for photography is early morning or late afternoon when low sun highlights the island and surrounding peaks.

What to See #

• Wild Goose Island: A small island near the lake's western shore that is the subject of one of Glacier National Park's most photographed views.
• Sun Point Overlook: A roadside viewpoint on Going-to-the-Sun Road that provides a clear panorama of the lake and Wild Goose Island, popular for sunrise and late-afternoon light.