Waterton Lakes National Park in southwest Alberta offers a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace. While many travelers choose a day trip, it’s best to spend a full day to truly enjoy its rich flora and fauna. In fact, Waterton is easily accessible—just 4 hours from Banff, 3 hours from Calgary, 2 hours from Fernie, and only 1.5 hours from Lethbridge. So, let’s guide you through amazing things to do in Waterton to help you make the most of your mountain getaway.
10 amazing things to do in Waterton…
Plan a hike to Crypt Lake
The journey to Crypt Lake is an adventure in itself. You will first have to take a 15-minute boat cruise across the lake. Next, you will hike past four magnificent waterfalls and scramble through a 60-foot natural mountain tunnel. And finally, you will have to take the assistance of a steel cable for passing through a narrow ledge. The Crypt Lake hike is extremely rewarding, as you will get to bask in the beauty of the turquoise alpine lake.
Enjoy the vibrant Red Rock Canyon
For a striking contrast of colors, take a short drive down the Red Rock Parkway. Here the bright red argillite rock stands out in contrast to the sparkling clear waters, making the way for beautiful frames. You can hike through the steep canyon walls and paddle through the glacial creek. Make sure to pack lunch for a rewarding day’s adventure.
Explore the waterfalls
Waterton is home to cascading waterfalls, which can be easily accessed following a day’s hike or brisk walk. It’s advisable to visit Waterton in the early summer once the winter ice has started melting.
- Start with Cameron Falls, and reach it with a 10-minute walk from town. High levels of agrolite present in the water cause it to turn red in certain instances.
- There are a total of 4 waterfalls in Crypt Lake, which you need to hike to reach. You are bound to have a great time marveling at the Burnt Rock Falls, Hell Roaring Falls, Twin Falls, and the 600 ft. Crypt Falls.
- Two waterfalls can be accessed via the Bertha Lake hike. Both Upper and Lower Bertha Falls flow down the side of the mountain.
- You can access Blakiston Falls from the same parking lot as that of Red Rock Canyon. Moreover, modern viewing pods and easy accessibility make the Blakiston falls perfect for taking your family along.
Here are some more things to do in Waterton…
Rent a Surrey bike
Explore the Waterton town site by hopping on a Surrey bike, as it offers a fun way for families or groups to navigate the streets together. For convenience, you can rent one from Pats for an hourly fee. Moreover, this can be your best choice to scout the top local cafés and even spot deer, which frequently roam the town.
Paddle the lakes in a Canoe, Kayak, or SUP
Head out to Blakiston and Co. for renting a boat and exploring Waterton from its waterbodies. However, Waterton is pretty windy, and so it’s best to prepare for a bumpy ride. If you prefer calm waters, then head out during late evening or early morning. Canoeing here is one of the amazing things to do in Waterton.
Experience the Downtown
After exploring the rugged trails and paddling in the lakes of Waterfront, you can head out to the lively downtown. There are multiple bars and restaurants such as Thirsty Bears, stocked with pool tables, a great menu, and an excellent dance floor.
Embark on the Bison Paddock Loop
You can drive through the Bison Paddock Loop to enjoy the natural heritage of the Great Plains up close. Along the way, many travelers spot bison, which gives the route its unique name. As you continue, you’ll see rolling green fields and peaceful ponds that add to the experience. Finally, a Texas gate and boundary fence encloses the area to keep the bison safely inside.
Sail on a Boat Cruise
Want to experience the glacial-carved landscape of Waterfront? Then book a cruise ride with the Waterton Shoreline Cruise Company. However, the cruise company takes bookings on a first-come, first-served basis. Once you have done the booking, you can head out to the docks for boarding the cruise. The Waterton Shoreline Cruise Company offers 15-minute round-trip shuttles to hikers for the Crypt Lake hike.
Cool off at Big Scoop Ice Cream
Go to the Big Scoop Ice Cream Parlor when you feel like eating something cold and yummy. There, you get big scoops of thick and creamy ice cream. You can choose from many fun flavors. They even use short, wide cones so the big scoops don’t fall! After that, you can take a nice walk by the lake and enjoy your ice cream while a cool breeze blows at your face.
Indulge in High Tea at the Prince of Wales
The Prince of Wales offers afternoon tea on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also try out their other yummy treats while taking in the surreal view from its floor-to-ceiling windows. High tea starts from $68 for adults & kids under 12 years is $32. If you pockest allows this is one of the best things to do in Waterton. Alternatively, you can head out to its restaurant across the hall and enjoy its charcuterie boards and beer.
