Overview

Waterton Lakes National Park has 120 miles of hiking trails intersecting a range of landscapes from prairies to sheer cliffs. Such diverse terrain, including lakes, rivers and wetlands, plays host to several wildlife species - bears, moose, deer, elk and more - often spotted from the trails. Whether you prefer an easy stroll with your family or a multi-day hiking adventure, a Waterton Park trail awaits you.

Akamina Lake
After an awe-inspiring trip down Akamina Parkway, leave your vehicle at Cameron Lake and take this short hike to Akamina Lake for an afternoon picnic.

• Trailhead: Cameron Lake
• Total Distance: 3.2 km (2 miles)
• Total Time: 1 hr
• Ascent: Minimal
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Townsite Trail
Enjoy a walking tour of Waterton Townsite, incorporating Cameron Falls and Cameron Bay, close to amenities and lakeside activities.

• Trailhead: Several parking areas including Cameron Falls and just off Waterton Avenue.
• Distance: 3.2 km (2 miles)
• Total Time: 1 hr
• Ascent: Minimal
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Loop

Blackiston Falls
Pose for a family portrait in front of the falls, just a short hike from the western end of Red Rock Parkway.

• Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon
• Distance: 2 km (1.2 miles)
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Ascent: Minimal
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Snowshoe Trail
Explore the northwestern portion of Waterton, following Bauerman Creek, with a backcountry campground and additional trail access to Lost Lake and Twin Lakes.

• Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon
• Distance: 16.4 km (10.2 miles)
• Total Time: 5 hrs
• Ascent: 150 meters (492 feet)
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Bertha Lake
Grab a hearty breakfast in Townsite before heading to Bertha Lake, featuring a well-deserved stopping point at Bertha Falls.

• Trailhead: Townsite
• Distance: 11.4 km (7 miles)
• Total Time: 4.5 hrs
• Ascent: 500 meters (1640 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate – Strenuous
• Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Wishbone Trail
For a full-day excursion, park near Maskinonge Lake and trek south, passing Lower Waterton Lake and terminating near Middle Waterton Lake.

• Trailhead: Chief Mountain Highway (just before the park’s eastern entrance)
• Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
• Total Time: 6-8 hrs
• Ascent: 50 meters (164 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Crandell Loop
Circle within portions of Akamina and Red Rock parkways, with views of Crandell Peak and stops at Crandell Lake, Crandell Campground, and Lonesome Lake.

• Trailhead: Akamina or Red Rock parkways
• Distance: 20.6 km (12.8 miles)
• Total Time: 6-7 hrs
• Ascent: 200 meters (656 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Trail Type: Loop

Additional Information

• Be Bear Aware
• Leave No Trace – pack out your litter!
• Always check trail conditions before departure.
• Wilderness camping permits required.