Red Rock Canyon in Waterton Lakes National Park is a delight for the eyes. The Red Rock Canyon has been carved out from a vivid red Argillite rock. You need to visit the Waterton Lakes National Park for experiencing this beauty up close. Every year numerous tourists flock the park to bask in its virgin allure. You will find it flocked with tourists on weekends as people come to marvel at its natural formation. If you like solitude, then you should pay a visit during off-peak hours.
Here are the things you need to know before Red Rock Canyon in Waterton!
Reaching Red Rock Canyon, Waterton
You will have to travel 9 km via road to reach the Red Rock Canyon. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most beautiful drives in the Canadian Rockies along the Blakiston Valley hills. On reaching the canyon, you will find a paved trail that you can explore to find out more about this amusing geological body. Despite going by the name Red Rock, it is actually a myriad of colors. However, red is the most noteworthy hue given its iron-rich nature.
How much time does it take?
The entire Red Rock Canyon trail is a short one. You can complete it within an hour. If you wish to be at one with nature for longer, then you can hike to the Blakiston Falls or explore the surrounding creek.
Red Rock Canyon loop trail details
Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon
Distance:1 km
Time Required: 20-30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Is the trail beginner friendly?
The USP of Red Rock Canyon lies in its easy accessibility. You will find multiple disabled parking spots at its parking space allowing access to a large section of people. The trail paves out from around the canyon making it easy for people on wheelchairs or those handling strollers. You can get on any of the dual-level bridges for enjoying the surrounding view. The lower parking is more uphill. If you or any of your family members is wheelchair bound, then it’s advisable to park in the upper parking.
Explore the surroundings
If you want to explore the unique features of Red Rock Canyon, you can scramble down a little bit to reach the bottom. Multiple trails lead to the small canyon. On reaching it you can take a look at the surrounding creek and get a closer look of the red rock. But for doing this you should be wearing proper hiking shoes as there are some steep steps for reaching the water.
Enjoy other viewpoints on the way to the Canyon
Are you an ardent nature lover? If you have yes for answer, then the drive to the Red Rock Canyon offers multiple opportunities for exploring nature. You can park your vehicle at other view points and enjoy some quiet moments with Mother Nature.
When should we visit Red Rock Canyon, Waterton?
You can appreciate the Red Rocks at its utmost glory during summer months. But adventure enthusiasts can visit it during winter months for some cross country skiing. Waterton doesn’t receive many visitors during winter. However, if you plan to visit during this time, then you will be rewarded with a once in a lifetime experience.
Is there any pass you need to buy?
Visitors to Waterton National Park need to buy pass. You can buy daily or annual pass to explore the Waterton Lakes National Park.
- Adult: $10.50 CAD
- Senior: $9.00 CAD
- Youth (up to 17 years): Free
- Family/group (up to 7 people): $21.00 CAD
Don’t forget to stick your daily pass on your car windshield. Please note that the daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. And, if you are a frequent traveler to National Parks visitor in Canada, then we recommend buying the Discovery Pass.
Also, here you can check the details of Annual Discovery Pass.
