I guess you have to weigh for yourself what is most important for your stay. If it's location, then this is a great property. If it's the experience of being in a nice room, this is not the place for you. Closer to being at camp than a motel but it got us closer to the hiking! The other hard part is food. No fridge, no coffee maker, there is a microwave in the office but that only works if they're there. Your options are drive an hour plus or eat at the lodge ($30 for a buffet each night). It was clean but super dated. Shower is beyond tiny. A large person would not fit.

Bathrooms are small and very uncomfortable for the price you charge for you rooms at McDonald Lake Lodge. Everything was very old and needs updating. The only thing that was good was the location of Motel

The location is wonderful- the staff was knowledgeable and helpful. Replacing the old mattresses and updating the electric for modern use would be helpful. We could hear the neighboring lodgers - walking, talking, even snoring. Some sound proofing would be helpful. That said - the location is excellent.

Arriving at the property, we were greeted by the manager, Ross. He was very professional, friendly and very welcoming not only to the property but to the park. He provided guidance for our stay and for our upcoming trip to Yellowstone as he had worked there as well. He was very positive and supportive of his employer which is always good to hear. The property had limited amenities but when traveling to the National Parks you are coming for the beauty of the out of doors, not room amenities. It was clean and the beds were comfortable.

Staying at Motel Lake McDonald as I type this review. Unfortunately this very sound-sensitive sleeper got placed in a room near heavily used outside stairs and between that and the overhead noise it is a challenge sleeping. Very thin walls. The room is shabby (not talking shabby chic here) to say the least. The cheap, cheap plastic shower curtain has clearly seen better days and the shower stall itself is tiny. Furniture is worn and tired. All of that might have been more palatable if we weren’t paying about $250/night with taxes and fees. Very, very poor value. Pluses are its close location within easy walking distance to Lake McDonald Lodge, including the shuttle stop there. Otherwise can’t think of another positive thing to say. If you have any other lodging alternative, take it and avoid the Motel Lake McDonald.