Rockies · Alberta
Waterton Lakes National Park
Where the prairie meets the peaks — abruptly and beautifully.
Province
Alberta
Established
1895
Size
505 km²
Coordinates
49.05°, -113.91°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Waterton Lakes National Park
Waterton is small, intimate and joined with Montana's Glacier National Park to form the world's first International Peace Park. The Prince of Wales Hotel sits above a wind-scoured lake that drops straight off the prairie into the mountains.
Why visit
- Prince of Wales Hotel viewpoint
- Crypt Lake hike — boat shuttle + tunnel + lake
- Red Rock Canyon and Cameron Falls
- International Peace Park boat tour (US/Canada)
- Some of the darkest skies in the Rockies
Things to do
Plan your days.
Crypt Lake day hike (shuttle required)
hiking
Townsite Campground (lakeside)
camping
Red Rock Parkway wildlife drive
scenic drive
International boat cruise to Goat Haunt
boating
Bison Paddock loop
wildlife
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Townsite Campground — lakeside with services
- Crandell Mountain (frontcountry rebuild)
- Backcountry: Twin Lakes, Bertha Lake
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: snowmelt, wildflowers, bear activity.
- Summer
- July–August: full season, warm but windy.
- Fall
- September: stunning, often deserted.
- Winter
- November–March: few services; cross-country skiing.
- Peak
- Late July through mid-August.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Red Rock and Akamina parkways at dawn; bison in the dedicated paddock loop.
Common species
Mule deer · Bighorn sheep · Plains bison (paddock)
Signature species
Grizzly bear · Black bear · Cougar
Wildlife safety
High grizzly density in spring and fall; carry spray and obey closures.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Waterton Park townsite
- Pincher Creek
- Cardston
Nearby attractions
- Glacier National Park (USA)
- Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
- Crowsnest Pass
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Waterton townsite weekend
Crypt Lake + Bear's Hump + Red Rock Canyon.
family
Family-friendly four days
Cameron Lake paddle, Bison Paddock and the international cruise.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Waterton Lakes National Park.
Can I camp in Waterton Lakes National Park?+
Yes. Waterton Lakes National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Waterton Lakes National Park?+
Yes — campsite reservations are required during peak season and open via the Parks Canada Reservation Service in mid-winter.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Waterton Lakes National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 9/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Waterton Lakes National Park?+
July through mid-September. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include grizzly and black bears, bighorn sheep and plains bison. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
Yes — designated loops accommodate RVs and trailers. Check site dimensions and service availability (electrical/water/sewer) when booking, as not every site offers full hookups.
How many days should I spend here?+
Two to three days.
Nearby parks
