Best things to do in Waterton National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Alberta’s most amazing spots, but somehow, it still feels like a secret compared to Banff or Jasper.

Waterton is the perfect place for a quick adventure, especially if you want a taste of real mountain beauty without huge crowds. In just one day, you can hike up a small mountain, wander around waterfalls and canyons, paddle on a lake, and chill out with an ice cream in a cozy lakeside village.

Best Time to Visit Waterton National Park

Waterton is open year-round, but the best time for a day trip is late spring to early fall, from May through September. That’s when the hiking trails are clear of snow, the wildflowers are out, and the lakes look like giant blue mirrors.

• Summer: The warmest time with full trail access and open cafés, but it’s also the busiest. Go early in the day to beat the crowds and find parking.
• Fall: September is stunning when the leaves turn gold and the air is crisp. Some trails might close early if there’s snow, so always check conditions before you go.

No matter when you go, bring layers, Waterton weather can change fast!

Getting to Waterton

Getting here is easy. If you’re driving from Calgary, it’s about 3 hours (270 km) south. Take Highway 2 south to Fort Macleod, then follow Highway 3 west and Highway 6 south straight into the park. From Lethbridge, it’s even closer, just 1.5 hours away!

When you arrive, you’ll need a Parks Canada pass. You can get one at the park gate or online. Parking is available at all the main trailheads and at the townsite, but it can fill up on busy summer days — another good reason to start early!

Tips:

• Fill up your gas tank before you enter the park, there’s only one small gas station in town.
• Watch for wildlife — deer, bighorn sheep, and bears love to wander near roads!

Spending a Day in Waterton

Morning

Bear’s Hump Trail

• Trail Length: 2.8 km return
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trailhead: Bear’s Hump Trailhead

This is Waterton’s classic viewpoint hike! You’ll climb up a well-maintained trail with stone steps and switchbacks. At the top, you get an unbeatable view of the town, Waterton Lake, and the surrounding peaks. Bring a snack and enjoy the breeze — sunrise and sunset are extra magical here.

Prince of Wales Hotel Viewpoint

This iconic historic hotel sits high on a hill overlooking Waterton Lake. Even if you’re not staying here, you can walk up to the viewpoint beside it. On a clear day, you’ll see sweeping views of the lake and mountains, it’s a classic photo op! The wind can be wild up there, so hold onto your hat.

Cameron Falls

You don’t even have to leave town for this one! Cameron Falls is a beautiful waterfall right in Waterton village. It’s an easy walk from most hotels and restaurants. Sometimes, after heavy rain, the falls turn pink from rock sediment! Snap a picture, listen to the roar, and enjoy a quick nature moment before grabbing lunch.

Midday

Red Rock Canyon Loop

This is an easy, fun trail for families and kids. The trail circles around Red Rock Canyon, which is a beautiful spot where the red and green layered rocks look unreal. You can also scramble down to the creek and dip your toes in the cold water. Don’t forget your camera! The colors here are stunning!

Blakiston Falls Trail

• Trail Length: 2.4 km (out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 77m
• Duration: 42 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon Trailhead

You may continue this short, family-friendly trail to Blakiston Falls. The 2 km round-trip hike passes through meadows known for their colorful wildflowers, especially in June and July. Interpretive panels explain the ecology and history of the area, including the impacts of the 2017 Kenow wildfire. The trail ends at two viewing platforms that overlook the dramatic Blakiston Falls as they tumble through a narrow canyon.

Cameron Lake

Cameron Lake is a peaceful, blue-green lake at the end of the Akamina Parkway. The flat trail hugs the shoreline with amazing views of the lake and mountains on the US border!

Rent a canoe or paddleboat at the dock if you want a relaxing paddle. It’s one of the prettiest, calmest spots in the park.

Evening

Waterton Lakes Shoreline

Take a break along the shoreline near the townsite marina. There are benches, picnic tables, and grassy spots to sit. Watch boats come and go or look for deer grazing nearby. It’s a peaceful place to recharge between hikes.

Essential Gear

Bragg Creek is easy-going, but you’ll enjoy it more if you pack smart.

Nearby Attractions & Hiking Trails

If you fall in love with Waterton (and you probably will!), come back for these longer adventures:

Crypt Lake Trail

• Trail Length: 18.5 km loop
• Elevation Gain: 881 meters
• Duration: 6-7 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trailhead: Crypt Lake Trailhead

One of Canada’s most famous hikes! It’s an all-day adventure with a boat ride, ladders, tunnels, and a hidden alpine lake. Save this one for a future trip when you have a full day to spare.

Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake Trail

• Trail Length
  • To Lower Bertha Falls: 5 km round trip
  • To Bertha Lake: 12 km round trip
• Elevation Gain
  • Lower Bertha Falls: 204m
  • Bertha Lake: 597m
• Duration
  • Lower Bertha Falls: 1.5 – 2 hours
  • Bertha Lake: 4-5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Trailhead: Bertha Trailhead

The Bertha Falls trail offers a scenic and moderately challenging hike starting from the townsite. The first section leads to Lower Bertha Falls, which is a beautiful cascade set in the forest. This 5 km round trip is popular with families and beginners.

For more experienced hikers, continue to Bertha Lake, a stunning alpine lake nestled between towering peaks. The full round-trip hike is around 13 km and includes switchbacks and rewarding views. The trail is vibrant with wildflowers in summer and is a top choice for photographers and nature lovers.

Akamina Parkway Drive

This scenic drive takes you from town to Cameron Lake, with stunning views the whole way. There are picnic spots and short walks along the road, which is perfect if you’re feeling tired but want more scenery.

Waterton Bison Paddock Loop

Google Map: Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada, Bison Paddock Lp, Improvement District No. 4, AB T0K 2M0
Just outside town, you can drive the loop road through the bison paddock. Stay in your car and watch these huge animals roam. It’s a quick, unique stop, especially fun for kids.

Places to Stay in Waterton Lakes

Waterton offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some top picks:

FAQs