Waterton Glacier International Peace Park

Waterton Lakes National Park & Glacier National Park: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide for exploring the breathtaking beauty and unique character of Waterton Lakes National Park!

A Shared Legacy: Exploring Two Parks, One Experience

Nestled on the stunning Canadian-American border, Waterton Glacier International Peace Park is a place where mountains meet prairies and international cooperation meets natural wonder. This dual-national park, encompassing both the Canadian Waterton Lakes National Park and the American Glacier National Park (Waterton Lakes), offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience two distinct yet interconnected ecosystems, showcasing the incredible diversity of the region.

Getting Started: Where is Waterton Lakes National Park?

Located in southwestern Alberta, Canada, and northwestern Montana & Alberta, this international treasure straddles the border between the two countries, encompassing Glacier National Park on the US side and Waterton Lakes National Park (Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada) on the Canadian side. This means you can explore both the majestic mountains and the serene lakes with a single pass for both parks!

What Makes it Special:

The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its:

  • Exceptional biodiversity: Waterton boasts a diverse range of plant and animal life, from alpine wildflowers and towering forests to grizzly bears and mountain goats.
  • Stunning scenery: Imagine towering peaks, turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, lush meadows, and pristine forests all in one place – that’s Waterton! The park features breathtaking views and unique landscapes.
  • International significance: It’s a symbol of peace and cooperation between Canada and the US, showcasing the beauty of shared conservation efforts.

The Two Sides of the Park: Exploring the Diverse Ecosystems

Waterton Lakes National Park (Canada):

This side of the park focuses on the Canadian side, offering a unique blend of mountain landscapes and prairie ecosystems.

  • Landscapes:
    • Mountains: Explore the majestic peaks of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, including the iconic Mount Crandell and the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains.
    • Waterfalls & Lakes: Hike to cascading waterfalls like the Red Rock Canyon or enjoy the serene beauty of Waterton Lake.

What to Expect in the Parks:

  • Breathtaking Views: Waterton boasts a unique landscape that transitions from the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the vast plains of Waterton Valley.
  • Unique Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bears (both black and grizzly), wolves, mountain lions, and over 250 species of birds.

Glacier National Park (USA):

This side of the park showcases the stunning beauty of Waterton Lake and the surrounding prairies.

What you need to know:

  • Park Pass: A single pass grants access to both sides of the park, but remember that this is for the two parks combined.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Be aware that wildlife viewing can be unpredictable. Always follow park guidelines and maintain a safe distance from animals.

Things to do on the Canadian side:

  • Hiking: Explore over 200 km of trails through diverse landscapes, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes.
    • Popular Trails: Red Rock Canyon Trail, Crypt Lake Trail, Cameron Falls Trail (all offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for wildlife viewing).

Things to do on the US side:

  • Visit Glacier National Park (Montana): Explore the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive that traverses the park and offers stunning views of mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy boat tours, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in the clear waters of Waterton Lake.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Explore the vast plains through a variety of activities.

Planning Your Visit:

  • Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) is the best time for hiking and outdoor activities on both sides.
  • Fall Colors: Autumn foliage in Waterton Lakes National Park is spectacular, with reds, oranges, and yellows painting the landscape from late September to early October.

Red Rock Canyon:

  • Difficulty: This scenic drive offers a variety of viewpoints and trails for all skill levels.

Camrose, Montana:

  • Waterton Valley: The park encompasses 3 different areas:
    • The Waterton Valley: Perfect for those who want to explore the beauty of the park without strenuous hiking.

Explore the Parks:

  • Waterton Lakes National Park (Canada)
    • Red Rock Canyon: Enjoy hiking trails through this area, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
    • Going-to-the-Sun Road: A scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
    • Waterton Lake: A stunningly beautiful lake perfect for swimming, boating, boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing

Water Activities:

  • Boat Tours: Explore the stunning beauty of Waterton Lake on a guided boat tour. These tours are available from June to September and offer insights into the flora and fauna of the area.

  • Waterton Lake:

    • Waterton Lake: Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and water while cruising on the park’s iconic red boat, which can take you on scenic tours of the lake during the summer months**.

Things to know before going:

  • Weather: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather. The Glacier Lakes area is known for its dramatic weather shifts, even in the summer.

  • Wildlife:

    • Respect Wildlife: Always remember that wildlife has the right of way. Observe animals from a safe distance and never approach them**.

  • Bears:

    • Waterton Lakes National Park: The park is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Remember, black bears are generally smaller and less aggressive than grizzlies.

  • Carry Bear Spray: Be aware of the potential for bear encounters and carry bear spray for safety. Always remember to practice safe bear viewing techniques.

Safety Tips:

  • Black Bears:
    • Be Bear Aware: Black bears are typically found in forested areas, while grizzly bears may inhabit meadows or higher elevations.
  • Always carry bear spray on the trails and know how to use it properly.

Carry a Whistle: Make noise on the trails to avoid surprising bears.

  • Carry a Bell: Use a bear bell for protection against encounters.

Bears in Waterton Lakes:

  • Carry Bear Spray:
    • Black Bears: Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it if you encounter a bear.

Wildlife Viewing:

  • Waterton Lakes (Montana): A great place to see wildlife is the Waterton Lakes Park, which is known for its stunning scenery.

The Parks offer:

  • Guided Tours: Learn about the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the area while enjoying the beauty of the park.
  • Hiking Trails: Explore over 200 km of hiking trails through breathtaking landscapes.
  • Wildlife Viewing Areas: Discover designated spots for viewing wildlife, like the Waterton Canyon Trail.

Things to consider when planning::

  • Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for camping and accommodation within the park.
  • Transportation: Driving is the most common way to get around the park, but you can also use the free shuttle service. Be aware that Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed in winter, but some trails remain open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing**.

Other activities:

  • Wildlife Viewing Opportunities:

    • Explore Waterton Lakes National Park (Montana):

  • Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Waterton Lakes region.

  • Take a hike on one of the many scenic trails.

  • Visit the historic Prince of Wales Hotel for its breathtaking views and elegant atmosphere.

  • Learn about the history of the area at the Waterton Visitor Center.

  • Go-to:

  • Wilderness: Enjoying nature’s beauty and tranquility.

  • Take a boat tour on Waterton Lake:

    • Waterton Lake:

  • Explore: Visit the scenic Going-the-Sun Road, a breathtaking drive through the heart of the park.

  • Enjoy a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities:

    • Bears: Always remember to practice safe bear viewing etiquette.

  • Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing and bird watching.

  • Wildlife Viewing:

    • Waterton Lakes National Park

  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing in the pristine waters of Waterton Lake.

  • Wildlife Viewing:

  • Glacier Lakes: You can enjoy fishing on the lake, or take a kayak trip and explore the area from a different perspective.

  • Learn about the wildlife:

  • Wildlife Viewing Spots:

    • Carry a bear bell: This is a good way to make noise while you’re hiking, which helps alert animals to your presence.

  • Red Rock Canyon

  • Boat tours: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Waterton Lake and its surroundings from the comfort of a guided boat tour.

Things to see:

  • Waterton Lakes:

    • Scenic Views: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains, the lake, and the surrounding wilderness on a park tour.
    • Hiking: Experience the stunning hiking trails in the park, including the iconic Waterton Lake Trail.

Things to remember:

  • Waterton National Park: This incredible park is a testament to the natural beauty that can be found in the Canadian Rockies.

Planning Your Trip:

  • Bring your camera: The scenic views from the lakes are breathtaking and worth capturing.

  • Remember:

    • Always carry bear spray on the trails: It’s a crucial safety measure.

  • Waterton Lake: It’s a stunningly beautiful lake, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

  • Bear Spray:

    • Carry it with you at all times.

Enjoy:

  • Beautiful scenery: Remember to be respectful of the wildlife and enjoy the amazing views!

To help plan your visit, consider these points::

  • Waterton Lakes National Park (Montana):

    • Accessibility: The Parks offer a variety of accessibility options for visitors.

  • Check with park staff: The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels.

Enjoy the beauty of the lake:

  • Wilderness: For information about specific trails and their accessibility, check the Waterton Lakes National Park website or contact a park ranger.

Remember:

  • Many trails are accessible by wheelchair:

  • Some trails are closed in winter: This is a great way to experience the beauty of the park and enjoy a variety of wildlife activities.

  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery:

  • Waterton Lakes National Park (Montana):

The Waterton Lake Trail: This is a popular trail for hiking, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

  • Guided tours:

  • Guided tours: These are available for purchase online or at the visitor center.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the breathtaking scenery

  • Explore the many trails in the park

  • Hike around the lake and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains.

  • Visit the historic Prince of Wales Hotel, which offers a unique experience.

Remember: The trail is accessible for all levels of fitness, but it is important to be aware that the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Always check the park website for updates on trail conditions and closures.

Planning Your Trip:

  • Waterton Lakes National Park is located in both Alberta and Montana.
  • Be sure to book a reservation at a nearby park.

Remember:

  • Remember that these are just a few of the many things you can do.

It’s important to remember:

  • To respect the wildlife and be aware of their needs.

  • Bring your camera!

  • It’s essential to bring a bear spray for safety, as bears are often seen in this area.

Remember:

  • Check the park website or ask park staff about the best time to visit the hotel for tours and activities.
  • Check the weather:

Always remember to check the weather before you go. Carry a map and compass, or a GPS device, and let someone know your plans.

Explore the Park:

  • Explore the park’s website for detailed information on trails and other attractions.

  • The beauty of Waterton Lake:

  • The lake is stunningly beautiful with clear waters and breathtaking views.

Enjoy the beautiful views:

  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the park while enjoying a relaxing boat tour.

  • Enjoy:

  • Stunning scenery: The trails offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, providing opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of Waterton Lakes National Park.

  • Waterton Lake

Things to carry: *

  • Binoculars: For observing wildlife from a distance and enjoying the scenic views.

Remember:

  • To bring your own bear spray for extra safety.

  • Always check the park website or contact a park ranger for information about which trails are accessible.

  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery:

  • Explore the various amenities the park offers:

  • Remember that water is crucial for survival, and a variety of activities can be enjoyed in the park.

Remember:

  • The lake’s beauty is best appreciated during the summer months when the weather is more predictable.

  • The benefits of carrying bear spray are obvious:

  • Always carry it with you at all times while hiking and remember to practice safe use**.

For a comprehensive list of activities, including hiking trails, tours, and accessibility information for each:

  • Visit the park’s website or contact the visitor center.

Remember:

  • This is a beautiful natural area.

Always carry bear spray:

  • This is crucial for your safety when visiting this region, known for its abundant wildlife**.

  • Carry water and snacks:

  • It’s important to be prepared for unexpected situations with enough supplies.

  • Remember:

  • This is a popular spot for hikers, but it’s important to remember that you need to be careful.

  • Always carry a map and compass or GPS device for safety.

  • The park offers designated areas for wildlife viewing and photography.

Carry bear spray:

  • Always remember that the natural world can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

  • Always check the park’s website for any closures or advisories:

    This is a good reminder to always stay aware of the potential dangers of wildlife encounters.

  • Remember to bring your camera, as you will likely want to capture photos of the stunning lake views.

  • Remember:

  • The Parks are beautiful and have lots to offer.

  • Always carry bear spray.

    It’s important to remember that the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears. Always be prepared for sudden weather changes and bring supplies.

Always check the weather before you go:

  • Carry a whistle or bell for making noise while hiking.

  • Remember that the Parks are located in a mountainous region with diverse ecosystems.

  • Carry bear bells:

Remember:

  • Drive safely, as the mountain roads can be winding and dangerous.

  • Always carry your own water:

  • Be aware of bears.

  • Stay safe: Remember to stay on marked trails and be respectful of the wildlife.

Respect the natural environment:

  • Stay away from cliffs and steep slopes.

  • Always check the weather and pack for it, as well as a map and compass.

  • Carry a bear spray and know how to use it!

    • Always:

  • Be aware of your surroundings:

  • The Parks are stunning and wild, so always remember that you’re in their territory and they need to be respected.

  • Always carry a whistle or bell for making noise while hiking.

  • Carry a map and compass.

Carry bear spray:

  • Remember to check the trail conditions before you go.

  • Be aware: The park is home to wildlife, and it’s important to take precautions to avoid any unwanted encounters.

  • Always carry a map and compass (or GPS) for safety.

Remember, this is just a starting point:

Remember:

  • The beauty of the mountains and the lake are best enjoyed by staying safe and being aware of the potential dangers.**

  • Always check: This beautiful environment offers many opportunities to enjoy wildlife but also remember that wild animals can be unpredictable.

  • Be prepared for all conditions:

  • Carry a water bottle and snacks, especially on longer hikes.

Carry a map and compass:

  • The terrain in the Parks can change quickly.

  • Always carry bear spray and a whistle for safety.**

  • Follow these tips to stay safe while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Parks.

  • Be sure to check the weather before you go!

Enjoy:

  • This is a beautiful natural area, but remember that it’s also home to wildlife.

The Parks are a great place to enjoy nature, but remember to be respectful of all animals and plants.

Remember to follow these tips to stay safe:

  • Always check the rules and regulations for visiting Waterton Lakes National Park before you set out.
  • Be aware of your surroundings:

Waterton Lakes National Park is a stunning destination in itself, but remember it’s not just about the lake. Remember to enjoy the park’s diverse trails and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and wildlife!

Carry bear spray: Remember, this is a beautiful natural area, but it’s important to be prepared for any potential encounters.

  • Be respectful of wildlife: Remember that the Parks are home to many species of animals, including bears, birds, and mammals.

  • Always carry your own whistle or bear bells.

  • This is a great way to keep yourself safe while enjoying the Parks.** Remember to be mindful of the environment when exploring.

Always check:

  • The trails are beautiful and rugged.

  • Remember to stay on marked trails for safety, as this allows you to avoid sensitive areas that are not meant for hiking.

Carry binoculars:

  • Enjoy:

  • Leave no trace behind.

  • Enjoy the stunning views along the trails.

Carry a map and compass: The Parks offer beautiful scenery and opportunities to enjoy the wilderness.

  • Always remember to carry:

To carry:

  • You are responsible for your own safety while enjoying the park.
  • Carry a whistle or bear bell to alert others in case of an emergency.
  • Stay aware of wildlife while you’re hiking.

Carry binoculars: For carrying binoculars, it is best to have a clear view of