Things To Do In Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada – A Responsible Travel Guide

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Are you curious about visiting Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada? Located right on the border between Alberta and the United States, this park is known for its chain of lakes (hence the name) and is often combined with a visit to Glacier National Park in Montana.

Waterton Lakes National Park is a place of beauty and wonder. It’s also the only park in Canada that borders two countries. The landscape is diverse, with rolling prairies, lush wetlands, towering mountains, deep canyons, and lakes, of course. It also offers plenty to do and explore, making it an adventure for all seasons.

In this guide, we’ve outlined the top things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, including practical advice to help you plan your own visit. Whether you’re looking to get outdoors and enjoy the natural landscapes or just have a relaxing escape, read on to find out all the best things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park!

About Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park is located in southwestern Alberta, Canada. It is nestled in one of the narrowest regions of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and shares a border with the United States. Many people visit Waterton Lakes from the USA, as an extension of a trip to Glacier National Park. 

But it is also an attractive park for Canadians to visit. It can easily be its own trip, spending several days in the Park. Or it is a great extension for your Canadian road trip, either through the Canadian Rockies or the Columbia Mountains. 

Waterton Lakes National Park is definitely worth visiting! Due to its location, you can drive to Waterton from Calgary, Canada, as well as from the USA (Montana). This park is unique in that it offers a nice blend of the Rockies and the Prairies, yet it is not over-saturated with tourists like Banff or Yoho National Parks in the Canadian Rockies.

Whether you are looking for hiking, camping, canoeing, birding and wildlife watching, astrotourism, snowshoeing, or more, Waterton has incredible recreational activities to connect you with nature. 

Waterton Lakes National Park might be the smallest park in the Canadian Rockies, but it is an incredible place where nature and culture blend. Recognized by UNESCO, International Dark Sky Parks, and by the Canadian and US governments, it is definitely a special place worth protecting and visiting

The park’s traditional name is given by the Blackfoot people, “Paahtómahksikimi” (BUCK-toe-MOCK-sick-ih-mee), which means inner sacred lake within the mountains. The park’s colonial name comes from the Waterton Lakes. This chain of lakes was named by Lieutenant Blakiston. 

The park is known as a place where the dry plains of Alberta meet the towering mountains. It is a transitional ecosystem vital to the health of both Canada and the United States.

History of Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton National Park was Canada’s 4th national park, created in 1932. It was formed in collaboration with the United States, which created Glacier National Park at the same time. Managed as a single continuous protected ecosystem, the two parks comprise the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. 

In 1979, it became Canada’s second biosphere reserve and the first Canadian national park to take part in this UNESCO program, and was designated in 1995.  It was formally recognized as an International Dark Sky Park in 2017. 

The Blackfoot people have used the land as traditional hunting grounds since time immemorial. As the Blackfoot people were displaced, the first colonial settler was John George ‘Kootenai’ Brown. In 1927, the landmark Prince of Wales Hotel was opened, bringing tourism and recreation to the region. 

In the following decades, modern amenities, including buses and other transportation services, commenced between the US and Canada. 

Today, the park has about 100 residents. It has two National Historic Sites located within its boundaries: the First Oil Well in Western Canada NHS (designated in 1968) and the Prince of Wales Hotel NHS (designated in 1995).

Indigenous Culture

The park is on the traditional and ancestral lands of the Siksikaitsitapi People, commonly known as the Blackfoot Confederacy. The Blackfoot people have many diverse tribal groups across the modern United States and Canada. The park is also home to other nations, such as the K’tunaxa peoples.

The earliest evidence of human use in the park dates back 10,000 years. The Blackfoot tribes used the area for hunting bison and gathering traditional foods and medicines. A prehistoric travel route called the Buffalo Trail was used by Indigenous People to follow herds. Seasonal hunting camps were constructed, most notably near Red Rock Canyon in the park. 

Colonial powers displaced the Blackfoot people and excluded them from accessing their traditional lands within the borders of the National Park. Modern treaties have brought about reconciliation, and many Blackfoot people now continue to hunt and harvest in the area. 

The park welcomed the first Metis woman, Josie Weninger, to serve as head of park management in 1997. She oversaw the park for a few years, a groundbreaking moment in a long history of park management led by caucasian men. 

Ecology and Sustainability

Waterton lies at the confluence of the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. The majority of the province is known for its dry, arid badlands and industrial oil and mining extraction, so Waterton is a haven for animals, plants, and sacred water resources. From the foothills of the Alberta plains to the high alpine area, there are lakes, rivers, mountains, grasslands, and more!

It is one of Alberta’s biodiversity hotspots, home to more than half of Alberta’s plant species. Many of the plants found here are rare and threatened with extinction. 

The park is home to a diverse array of animals as well. From big predators like cougars and lynx to omnivores like bears to the endangered little brown bat. It is one of the few places in Canada and the United States where every North American predator co-exists together and with humans. 

The plains bison is a keystone species in this region. They are critically important to Indigenous people’s food security and way of life. Bison are also ecosystem engineers in the plains. Meaning the way they graze and migrate is considered beneficial to all plants and animals. 

They were extirpated (locally extinct) from Canada and Waterton due to colonial-led hunting and the loss of ecosystems caused by agricultural development.

Parks Canada, in collaboration with the Blackfoot People, notably the Kainai First Nation, successfully reintroduced a small herd to Waterton in 2021. While the transition hasn’t been seamless, the reintroduction has helped with plant and animal health and will support a sustainable Indigenous hunt for food security when the population stabilizes.

Mindful Recreation

When visiting Waterton and any other national park in Canada, always practice mindful recreation. 

• Never feed, touch, or approach wildlife. NEVER. Cute squirrel? Leave the nuts in the bag. Cool bison roaming the plains? Stay away!
• Always have a system for your trash, even toilet paper if you pee in the woods—yes, that should come back with you. Pack out what you pack in. 
• Never wander off trail. Going off-trail causes erosion and tramples delicate flora. 
• Obey all signage and current fire bans and regulations.

Things to Do in Waterton National Park

Visit the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park

In Waterton Park, there is a small park next to the water that is definitely worth a visit to truly appreciate the co-management relationship between the US and Canada.

There’s a little monument/sign and some information panels here, all about the treaty between Canada and the USA, with both flags flying and a lovely view across the water.

Make sure you start your trip here before heading further into the park so you can soak up the views and learn a bit about the park’s history.

Waterton Lakes National Park Visitor Centre

Another point to check out before you leave the Waterton Park township is the National Park visitor centre, located in the middle of town.

Inside, you’ll find lots more information about the park’s history, flora, and fauna, along with some particularly beautiful wall-sculpture dioramas showcasing the park’s animals and landscapes.

This is also where you can get any maps, brochures, or permits that you might need for your trip, as well as get advice from the local staff.

And if you want to know more about the local Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) culture, you can find the Paahtómahksikimi Cultural Centre just around the corner from the Visitor Centre.

Bears Hump Hike

Bears Hump Hike is a moderately easy trail and one of the most popular in Waterton Lakes National Park. It is an out-and-back hike of 2.8 km and takes approximately an hour to complete. 

Bears Hump hike welcomes you to a postcard-worthy image of the Waterton Lakes, Prince of Wales Hotel, and the townsite. 

The trailhead is easily accessible from the Visitor Centre, and there is a small parking area at the base of the mountain. From the trailhead, you can climb the wooden stairs to get to the top. Along the way, you will find mule deer and views of the Waterton Lakes peeking at you!

Note that this trail is heavily trafficked, especially in the summer months from May to October, so you can expect crowds and a ton of activity options. In the wintertime, the trail is covered in snow and can be unsafe for a hike. It is also windy at the top. 

Join a guided hike of Bear’s Hump for company and to get out first thing in the morning before crowds.

Crypt Lake Hike

The Crypt Lake Hike is one of the most exciting hikes you can do in Waterton Lakes National Park. It has made it to National Geographic’s list of “World’s 20 Most Thrilling Trails,” so get ready to enjoy the views.

Crypt Lake Trail is a 20.4 km, heavily trafficked loop trail with an elevation gain of 700 m. It is a difficult trail, and it takes about 3 hours to reach the top. You need to be in good physical fitness and have the proper hiking gear to complete the hike. 

To access the trailhead at Crypt Landing, you have to hop on a 15-minute boat ride across Upper Waterton Lake. Along the trail, you can check off 4 spectacular waterfalls: Hell Roaring Falls (at 1 km), Twin Falls (at 3.5 km), Burnt Rock Falls (at 5.6 km), and Crypt Falls (at 8 km). 

The final view is that of the gorgeous Crypt Lake, with the towering cliffs surrounding it on all sides.

More Hiking Near Waterton Lakes Townsite

Some of the other popular hikes in Waterton Park include:

Bertha Lake Trail: The hike to Bertha Falls offers a beautiful, easy route perfect for beginners. The 10 km round-trip includes some steep climbing but also allows you to take in Waterton’s stunning scenery without long trails or mountain-side traverses – making it one of our favorite things to do when visiting this area!

Lower Bertha Falls: Lower Bertha Falls is a scenic hike with views to die for! The 5.3 kilometers (3.2 miles) out-and-back trail leads you through the woods before ending at the Lower Bertha Falls. It’s rated as moderate, so if your dog will be tagging along, make sure they’re on a leash. The trailhead is accessible from the Waterton village campground. 

Both of these hikes can be accessed via the same Bertha Trail AllTrails route, which even takes you up as far as Bertha Peak for advanced hiking. 

The Carthew-Alderson Trail: A point-to-point hike that features both high points of interest, Carthew Summit and Alderson Lakes. The 20 km long trekking route has an elevation gain of 650 meters!

Join a guided hike, so you don’t get lost and can make new friends along the way!

Visit the Red Rock Canyon, Waterton

The Red Rock Canyon was the former site of a Blackfoot seasonal hunting camp. Today, the colors of this canyon are a delight for visitors. They are formed by water erosion. 

The bright red and green rocks contrast beautifully with the lush greenery, wildflowers growing around them, and the mountain peaks in the background, creating an amazing view that will keep you coming back!

There are more hikes of interest near the Red Rock Canyon site that you can quickly check off while visiting this area.

The Red Rock Canyon Trail offers an easy 1 km loop, but the best way to enjoy this natural wonderland isn’t during peak hours, when there are lots of other people around — go early!  You’ll be able to admire the stunning red rocks, wonderful views of the canyons, and the greenery around you.

The Blakiston Falls Trail is a 2.4-kilometer out-and-back trail near Red Rock. This is one of the easiest hikes and is perfect for all skill levels, especially families!

Go Biking: Red Rock Canyon via Red Rock Parkway

Red Rock Canyon via Red Rock Parkway is a stunning ride that will leave you with great memories. You can begin in Waterton, which makes for an easy day trip and gives you access to essential services on your way back, if necessary! 

The views are worth every effort on this 36 km journey, as flowers dot the landscape during their peak season, especially since photography opportunities like these don’t come around often enough!

This is a road cycling route with limited shoulder space. Ride and drive with caution in this shared road space.

Drive (or Bike) Akamina Parkway

The Akamina Parkway is a scenic, 16-kilometer highway that begins in Waterton and runs through the Cameron Valley. Along this route, you will find many historical sites, including the First Oil Well in the Western Canada National Historic Site. 

Other points of interest along the way include Lineham Falls, Carthew-Alderson (Summit) Lake, Rowe Lakes, Akamina Pass, Cameron Lakeshore, and Cameron Lake. 

Join a guided tour of either Akamina or Red Rock, a great choice if you don’t have a car!

Visit National Historic Sites

Waterton Lakes National Park is home to two national historic sites, and both should be on your list of things to do in the park!

Prince of Wales Hotel

If you’re not staying at the Prince of Wales, then stop by and check it out. Built in 1926, the hotel is an incredible feat of engineering and a landmark. 

It was constructed as a luxury tourism getaway for those seeking a natural escape along the North American rail system developed at that time. Backcountry camps and hotels were built, paving the way for tourism across Canada and the United States. 

Tourism packages started at $1,000 USD, and from Montana, you could get a rail and transit experience into Waterton Lakes for a week’s stay at Prince of Wales. The Great Depression ended the luxury of the Roaring 20s tourism, but the Prince of Wales remains, welcoming a new age of visitors.

First Oil Well

Has hell frozen over that Curiosity Saves Travel is recommending you visit an oil well? Not quite! Like it or not, modern Alberta was developed because of oil and gas. It is a huge part of Alberta’s and Canada’s economy. The first oil well in Alberta is a reminder of the past, risks, and alternative path forward for Canada. It’s an educational stop.

Thankfully, this area is now protected from extractive industries and is a haven for wildlife and conservation. 

Go for a Swim in Waterton Lakes

In the summer months, you can swim in Upper Waterton Lake. The most popular swimming spot is Emerald Bay. There’s also a beach near Townsite campground that gets windy, but it’s usable when it’s not too hot outside; otherwise, you’ll find yourself with sore muscles from all those laps! 

Alongside Marquis Hole picnic site along the river, there are plenty more places to cool off and get your mind off things.

Afternoon Tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel, Waterton

There’s so much to explore at Waterton Lakes National Park, but if you want something as a nice and relaxing alternative to hiking and biking, check in for a high tea!

The Prince of Wales offers a British-inspired Afternoon Tea in the Royal Stewart Dining Room, overlooking the lake. Sip tea and nibble scones in the royal ambiance at the iconic property!

Go scuba diving at the Waterton Lakes

Scuba diving is one of the most popular attractions in Waterton Lakes. Although the waters are super cold, scuba divers enjoy their time here. 

The Waterton Lakes have an old shipwreck that’s been moored at the bottom of Emerald Bay for nearly 100 years. One main attraction remains ‘Gertrude,’ her namesake; she was a sternwheeler steamboat and became famous when she ran aground on rocks near these lakes back in 1912 (although no one knows exactly what happened to her crew after they abandoned ship due to rising waters).

You will need to bring your own SCUBA equipment, as it is not provided. 

Boating on the Waterton Lakes

One of the key features of Waterton Park includes a string of pristine mountain lakes that offer great opportunities for water-based exploration. 

In town, Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes provide popular spots with steady breezes, making it the perfect destination for windsurfers or sailors on their own boats. 

Motorized and non-motorized watercraft are allowed. You can use canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), paddle boats, drift boats, and sailboats. Motorized vessels must be inspected by Parks Canada staff before entering park waters.

Remember to clean your equipment before and after use to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Sightseeing cruise with Waterton Shoreline Cruise Co.

Want to enjoy something cool and amazing? Go on a sightseeing cruise with Waterton Shoreline Cruise Co. They offer scenic, photography, and wildlife-focused tours. Take a look at their schedules here.

Cruises are an hour and a half, and the same company also organizes rides and shuttle services for hikes such as Vimy Peak and Crypt Lake.

Enjoy a scenic stroll along the shores of the Waterton Lakes

One of the easy things to do in Waterton Park is to enjoy a lovely stroll along the shores of the lakes. You will find picnic tables, cruise boats lining up, restaurants, and uninterrupted views of the mountains and the lake.

The shoreline also offers a gorgeous view of the Prince of Wales Hotel, plus there are red chairs dotted around if you need a rest, or some more photo ops!

Admire the Cameron Falls in Waterton

Waterton’s most famous and beautiful (and easy) landmark is Cameron Falls. It is located on the corner of Waterton’s town center, with plenty of parking available for visitors nearby. 

The falls are best seen from behind. An explanatory display explains how they were formed by Precambrian rock layers that are a billion years old, highlighting their uniqueness. When you are close to the bridge, you can stand and feel the cool mist on your face.

Although you don’t have to hike to enjoy these falls, you can go on a nice short hike near them.

Eat your heart out at Waterton townsite

There are plenty of great restaurants in the area, so you’ll have no trouble finding something to your taste – from pizzas to burgers to seafood. The town itself is lively with visitors all day.

There are outdoor cafes, grab-and-go coffee, and snack places. Oh, and lots of ice cream and amazing shakes to choose from!

We’ve put together this list of the best places to eat in Waterton Lakes National Park below:

• Wieners of Waterton: This is one of our favorite spots in Waterton. Stop here to grab a hot dog, add yummy fries, and a drink! You will also find outdoor seating areas here.
• The Lakeside Chophouse & Wine Bar at the Bayshore Inn: First off, their lakeside patio is amazing. Order their pasta, burger, or Alberta beef dishes – they are also amazing! This restaurant is part of the Bayshore Inn, and it also offers a buffet breakfast.
• Windflower Corner Coffee: Love this cute coffee shop for a nice break! 
• Big Scoop Ice Cream Parlour: Another cute place with a variety of ice cream flavours. Go there in the late afternoon to grab an ice cream and then enjoy a stroll in the area!
• At the Prince of Wales Hotel: Sit down for an afternoon tea here, dine at the Royal Stewart Dining Room, or grab a round of drinks.
• Other places include: Waterton Park Café and Beaver Tails.

Things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park in the winter

When visiting in winter, there are still plenty of things to do in Waterton, from ice skating to snowshoeing to cross-country skiing. 

Ice skating: You can go ice skating on Linnet Lake beside the Prince of Wales Hotel.

Snowshoeing: The Belleview trail, Wishbone trail (to Vimy junction), Townsite Loop trail, Prince of Wales Hill, and the Cameron Lake area are good places to go snowshoeing.

Cross-country skiing: There are plenty of options for cross-country skiing in Waterton Lakes National Park in winter. The best places include Akamina Parkway and Cameron Ski Trail (5 km from Little Prairie to Cameron Lake). Red Rock Parkway is another option.

Winter walks and hikes: For winter walks and easy hikes, head to the Belleview trail, the Wishbone trail (to Vimy junction), the Townsite Loop trail, and Prince of Wales Hill.

Ice climbing: Ice climbing spots include the Compound Gullies, Quick and Dirty, Experts’ Choice, Lineham Falls, and Sullivan Falls.

Winter camping: Pass Creek Day Use Area.

Other than the above-listed winter activities, you can go fat biking, wildlife viewing, photo self-tours, and more. 

Keep in mind that winters are severe in this area, and avalanches are common – so dress warmly, get the right training and equipment for climbing, hiking, etc!

FAQ for Planning a Trip to Waterton National Park

How to Get to Waterton National Park

When traveling from Canada, plan to arrive in Calgary (the nearest major airport) or by VIA Rail, which connects Canada’s major cities. 

• Calgary to Waterton is 272 km (169 miles). It will take about 3 hours to drive there one way. 
• Edmonton to Waterton is 563 km (350 miles) via AB-2S, and it takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes to drive there. 

From either location, you will need to rent a car to enjoy a classic Canadian road trip to a beautiful National Park. 

• Best Day Trips From Calgary
• Best Day Trips from Edmonton
• Where to Stay in Calgary
• Things to do in Calgary

How many days do you need at Waterton National Park?

Ideally, you’ll take 3 full days to enjoy activities in Waterton National Park, from half-day hikes and easy walks along the lake shore to sightseeing cruises, picnics, and afternoon tea at the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel! There are lots of things to see, do, and enjoy here!

If you want some help to put all these amazing things to do in Waterton Lakes into one cohesive itinerary, we have you covered!

Don’t miss our complete 3-day itinerary for Waterton Lakes National Park that covers all these highlights!

What is the Cost? Tickets and National Park Fees

Canada’s National Parks do cost money to enter and require a permit. These can typically be purchased online in advance or at a Visitor Center, ticket booth, or on-site National Park administrative building.

 Daily Single Use Tickets

• Adult: $10.50 CAD
• Senior: $9.00 CAD
• Youth (up to 17 years): Free
• Family/group (up to 7 people): $21.00 CAD
• Commercial group (per person): $9.00 CAD

The daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. If you are a frequent visitor to Canada’s National Parks, opt for the Discovery Pass. 

Annual Discovery Pass

The annual Discovery Pass grants you access to all sites managed by Parks Canada, including National Parks and National Historic Sites. 

• Adult: $52.25 CAD (Annual) | $72.25 (Discovery Pass)
• Senior: $44.50 CAD (Annual) | $61.75 CAD (Discovery Pass)
• Youth (up to 17 years): Free
• Family/group (up to 7 people): $104.50 CAD (Annual) | $145.25 CAD (Discovery Pass)

Free Passes?

Canada has once again offered the Canada Strong discount for Parks Canada sites, including Waterton. Visit anytime between June 19 and September 7, 2026, for a FREE entrance!

Where to Stay in Waterton Townsite

Unlike Banff and Jasper National Parks, where you will find a variety of accommodation – luxury Fairmont lodges, mid-budget hotels, lodges, and motels – Waterton has very limited options. 

If you are unable to find an affordable place to stay here, consider hotels in Pincher Creek and then drive to Waterton for sightseeing. It’s about a 40-minute drive, one way.

Hotels in Waterton National Park

Prince of Wales Hotel: This is THE iconic accommodation in Waterton townsite, with roots dating back to the 1930s. Everything is within walking distance of the Prince of Wales Hotel. 

You can also enjoy fine dining or a drink at the Windsor Lounge, or a meal in the Royal Stewart Dining Room. Afternoon tea is also served here, overlooking the lakes. 

Click for prices and availability.

Waterton Glacier Suites Hotel: Surrounded by the mountains of Waterton Lakes National Park, this amazing hotel is conveniently located near the Waterton Lakes Golf Course, Shoreline Cruises, and Cameron Falls. The property has spa baths in the rooms, a fireplace, and a balcony. There is another hotel, The Bayshore Inn, located nearby with an on-site spa, gift shop, and restaurants.

Click for prices and availability.

Crandell Mountain Lodge: This affordable, no-frills property is located in Waterton. There are amenities for guests, including a BBQ area, a terrace, and nearby canoe and kayak rentals. 

Click for prices and availability. 

Camping in Waterton National Park

There are a few campsites in and around Waterton where you can stay. Our favorite is the Waterton townsite campground – it is within the park boundaries, and you can walk or bike to the lakes and restaurants nearby. 

• You can call 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783) in Canada. Lines are open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm local time
• If you are from outside of North America, call 519-826-5391

For group camping, you can check out Belly River Campground.

Comment and Share Waterton Lakes National Park Guide

So there you have it! There’s so much to explore at Waterton Lakes National Park – you could spend weeks exploring every corner of this incredible place! Making it a great place for slow travel or return visits. 

At the intersection of the Great Plains and the Canadian Rockies, it is diverse ecologically, offering something for everyone. Whether you are interested in hiking, Indigenous culture, or national historic sites, you’ll find plenty to do at Waterton Lakes National Park.