So, you’re thinking about a trip to Waterton Lakes National Park. You’ve heard it’s amazing, but you want to know what there is to actually do. You need a list of the best Waterton attractions to make your visit incredible.
You’ve come to the right place. I’ve explored every corner of this park and know its secrets. I’ll guide you through the can’t-miss sights and experiences that define this part of the Canadian Rockies.
These are the Waterton attractions that will stick with you long after you’ve gone home. From stunning mountain views to serene boat tours on Waterton Lake, there is something for everyone.
What Makes Waterton So Special?
Waterton Lakes National Park isn’t like other mountain destinations. It sits where the vast Canadian prairies suddenly collide with the Rocky Mountains. This sharp transition creates a landscape you will not see anywhere else in the Lake’s national park system.
The area is part of the Crown of the Continent Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO for its important ecology. It is also half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. This means it shares a special bond with Glacier National Park in the United States, a symbol of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
The local Blackfoot Confederacy has a deep connection to this land, which they call “Paahtómahksikimi,” meaning the inner sacred Lake. The spirit of Patâs Waterton can be felt throughout the park. What you will feel most is the charm of the Waterton townsite, which has a relaxed, small-town vibe far from the busy crowds of Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
The Absolute Must-See Waterton Attractions
Ready to build your itinerary for your Waterton Park adventure? This is not just a list. It is your roadmap to experiencing the very soul of this incredible park, Waterton.
Explore Waterton Lakes on a Historic Boat Tour
If you do one thing during your visit, make it this boat tour. The Waterton Shoreline Cruise Co. offers a trip you will never forget on Upper Waterton Lake. You will board the historic M.V. International, a lake boat that has been sailing these waters since 1927.
The boat glides down Upper Waterton Lake, which is the deepest Lake in the Canadian Rockies. The guide tells stories about the area’s history, the International Peace Park, and geology. It is a fantastic way to learn about the cooperation between Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park.
The coolest part is crossing the international border into Montana. The boat docks for a short time at Goat Haunt, USA, before turning around. This boat shuttle is also the only way to access the trailhead for the famous Crypt Lake hike.
Experience the Grandeur of the Prince of Wales Hotel
You cannot miss it. The Prince of Wales Hotel sits on a bluff overlooking Upper Waterton Lake and the town. This iconic hotel is a National Historic Site of Canada for a good reason, and one of the most famous Waterton hotels in the country.
The hotel was built by an American railway company in 1927 to lure tourists north. The winds here are so strong that the foundation is extra deep to keep it secure. The beautiful views from its lawn are some of the best in Waterton National Park.
You do not have to be a guest to visit this historic site. Walk inside to see the grand lobby with its huge windows, or browse the gift shop for souvenirs. It’s a fantastic spot for photos overlooking upper Waterton.
Indulge in Afternoon Tea
For a truly special experience at the Wales Hotel, consider booking their traditional afternoon tea. Served in the main lobby, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The service includes delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an assortment of pastries.
This is a popular activity, so making reservations is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Having tea at this hotel, built in the 1920s, is a classic Waterton memory. It’s a perfect way to relax after a morning of exploring the park, hotels, and surrounding areas.
Drive the Scenic Akamina Parkway
Get in your car for a truly stunning drive. The Akamina Parkway winds for about 10 miles (16 km) into a deep mountain valley. The road follows the path of Cameron Creek through a forest regenerating from the 2017 Kenow Fire.
The new growth against the charred trees is a powerful reminder of nature’s resilience and offers a different kind of natural beauty. At the very end of the parkway is Cameron Lake. This serene sub-alpine lake is perfect for a quiet paddle or a picnic, and you can rent canoes and paddle boards on-site.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way, especially bears and deer. Parks Canada maintains these scenic drives with care for all to enjoy. A short, easy lake trail follows the western shore, offering great photo opportunities of the surrounding peaks.
Spot Wildlife on the Red Rock Parkway
Waterton’s other scenic drive offers a totally different experience from the Akamina Parkway. The Red Rock Parkway takes you through open grasslands and rolling aspen forests. This landscape makes it a fantastic place to spot wildlife.
Black bears love the berry bushes that line the road in late summer, so you are very likely to see one here. Remember to drive slowly, stay in your vehicle, and keep a safe distance. Always have bear spray accessible when exploring Waterton National Park.
The road ends at Red Rock Canyon, a must-see for any day trip. The rocks here have a striking deep red and green color from the iron-rich argillite. You can walk a short, paved loop or wade through the shallow creek that carved the canyon.
Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels
You have to hit the hiking trails to truly see the Waterton International Peace Park. The Lake National Park has a hike for everyone, from a simple stroll to a full-day epic. Here are a few of the best.
Easy Hikes You Can’t Miss
These easy trails still deliver big on scenery and are perfect for a relaxed afternoon. The most accessible is Cameron Falls, located right in Waterton village. This beautiful waterfall flows over some of the oldest exposed rock in the Canadian Rockies.
For another easy option, try the Red Rock Canyon Loop. It is a simple, short walk around the rock canyon rim with great views into the colorful gorge below. Of course, there is the short walk up the hill to the Prince of Wales Hotel, where the view of the town and lakes is simply world-class.
The Linnet Lake Loop is another easy walk popular with families. The calm waters often provide beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains. It’s a peaceful spot just a short distance from the main parking lot in the Waterton townsite.
Moderate Adventures with Big Rewards
Ready for a bit more of a challenge? The Bear’s Hump hike is a classic Waterton experience. It is steep but very short, zigzagging up the mountain that looks like a grizzly bear’s hump.
The view from the top is the best in the park, overlooking the entire valley, the chain of lakes, and the town. For another adventure, the Bertha Lake trail offers waterfalls and a stunning alpine lake. The trail first leads to Lower Bertha Falls before climbing more steeply up to the Lake, which is nestled in a high mountain cirque.
Then there is the famous Crypt Lake Trail. This is more than a hike; it is a real adventure often rated as one of Canada’s best trails. Your journey starts with the boat shuttle across Upper Waterton Lake.
The hike itself includes climbing an exposed steel ladder and crawling through a 60-foot natural tunnel before reaching the spectacular hidden Lake. You will need a full day for this hike, and Parks Canada provides details on their Crypt Lake page for preparation.
For the Serious Hiker
If you are an experienced hiker, Waterton Lakes National Park has you covered. The Carthew-Alderson Trail is a stunning point-to-point hike about 12 miles (20 km) long. You will start at the beautiful Cameron Lake.
The trail takes you up over three mountain passes, past several alpine lakes. The scenery changes dramatically, from the high alpine to the montane forest. The trail ends right back in the Waterton townsite, perfect for grabbing a well-earned meal at one of the great restaurants.
For those looking for a true scramble, Akamina Ridge provides an exhilarating day with constant mountain views. It requires confidence with heights and route-finding, but rewards hikers with some of the best panoramas in the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Family-Friendly Fun in Waterton
Bringing the kids along? Waterton Lakes is a fantastic playground for families. There is so much to do beyond just hiking the bike trails and pathways.
Rent Surrey bikes and pedal your way through town. These four-wheeled bikes are a blast for the whole family and a fun way to see the sights. Head down to the marina and rent paddle boards or kayaks; the main Waterton Lake near the townsite is often calm enough for a paddle.
You can also spend time at Emerald Bay, a popular spot for a picnic on a sunny day. The calm, shallow water is great for kids to splash around in. It is an easy walk from the main town center, and Waterton has to offer.
| Activity | Best For | What to Know |
| Surrey Bike Rentals | Families and Groups | You can rent bikes right in town from Pat’s Waterton. It’s a fun way to explore the main streets together. |
| Falls Cameron Falls | All Ages | It is located right in the townsite with an easy, paved path. The lighting on Cameron Falls is beautiful in the evening. |
| Red Rock Canyon | Kids of all ages | Children love wading in the shallow, colorful creek at the Red Rock Canyon. Bring water shoes. |
| Waterton Marina | Water Lovers | Rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards to enjoy views from Upper Waterton Lake. |
| Pat’s Playground & Splash Park | Young Children | Located near the marina, it offers a great place for kids to burn off energy on a hot day. |
Where to Eat and Stay
All this exploring will make you hungry. For a small town, Waterton has some great restaurants and food options. You can find everything from casual pizza to fine dining.
Grab a slice at Trappers Mountain Grill for a relaxed meal, or stand in line for the famous hot dogs at Wieners of Waterton. Get your morning coffee and a tasty pastry at Windflower Corner Cafe. For a pub atmosphere, visit the Thirsty Bear social house for a burger and local beer.
For a special dinner, try the Lakeside Chophouse & Bar for steak and seafood with great lake views. When it comes to staying the night, you have choices too. The Prince of Wales is the obvious luxury pick for a historic hotel experience.
Several motels and lodges in town offer comfortable, clean, and convenient places to sleep. For a more rustic experience, check out the Parks Canada campgrounds. The main Townsite Campground is right on the Lake and very popular, so book your campsite well in advance for a summer day tour or a longer stay.
Conclusion
Waterton Lakes National Park is a place that captures your heart. It has a peacefulness that is hard to find in the popular Canadian Rockies parks. But it also offers enough adventure to keep you busy for days on any day trip or extended vacation.
This combination of quiet and wild is what makes people come back to Waterton Lakes National Park year after year. From thrilling hikes like Crypt Lake to relaxing drives on the Red Rock Parkway and historic cruises, the list of amazing Waterton attractions goes on.
Whether you’re taking a boat tour across an international border or enjoying the view from the Prince of Wales Hotel, you are creating lasting memories. I hope this guide helps you plan a trip to this amazing peace park that you will always remember.
