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- McDonald Peak
9,820 ft · Mission Mountains, Montana
McDonald Peak
McDonald Peak is a 9,820 ft peak in the Mission Mountains, Montana. The standard route is the West Side: 11 mi, 5,650 ft of gain, Class 3.
McDonald Peak at a glance
- Elevation9,820 ft2,993 m
- RouteWest SideClass 3
- Distance11 mi5,650 ft gain
- Time9 – 11 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJun – Jul
- RangeMission MountainsMontana
Climbing the West Side
McDonald Peak is the highpoint of the Mission Mountains on the Flathead Reservation in Montana, and its west side approach is closed for grizzly bear protection from July 15 to October 1; confirm access and tribal permits before going. Outside the closure, the route is a demanding Class 3 scramble with steep exposure, loose rock, and snow near the summit. Storms, wind, and low visibility build quickly in this remote range. Wear a helmet, carry navigation, and start early. Respect all closures here, as this is sacred and sensitive wildlife country requiring extra care and preparation.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (40–55 L)
Hiking Boots
Helmet
Base Layer
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Hardshell Pants
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
Headlamp
GPS Device
Satellite Communicator
Power Bank
Offline Maps- Compass
- Paper Map
Water
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Whistle
Emergency Bivy
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Steep exposure
- Loose rock
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Technical climbing
- High altitude
- Storms
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Remote location
- Rockfall
Quests with McDonald Peak
Lower 48 UltrasFrequently asked questions
How tall is McDonald Peak?
McDonald Peak is 9,820 feet (2,993 m) tall. It is in the Mission Mountains, Montana.
How hard is it to climb McDonald Peak?
The West Side is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 11 miles with 5,650 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb McDonald Peak?
Most people take 9 – 11 hours round trip on the West Side, covering 11 miles with 5,650 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is McDonald Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a helmet for McDonald Peak?
It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the West Side, so a helmet is on the gear list.
When is the best time to climb McDonald Peak?
The usual climbing window is June to July. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb McDonald Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list