Waterton Lakes National Park Holidays

This place has dozens of lakes and rivers, so it’s only right that you visit some during your holiday to Waterton Lakes National Park. You could go for a stroll or kayak around one of the three Waterton Lakes, or admire the dramatic scenery of Cameron Lake. Surrounded by breath-taking mountains, this alpine spot is very popular in summer – so it’s best to go as early as possible for a peaceful experience.

Red Rock Canyon is another must-see. Cutting between the Rockies and the prairies, this rust-coloured gorge is unique. Glacial waters run through the canyon, meandering around the rock and creating pretty pools. There are a number of hikes in the area and, depending on the season, you might see beavers building their dams.

Want to simply sit down and admire the view? Search for the red chairs. There are four sets of red Adirondack chairs dotted across the park’s most picturesque places. Some are easy to access, while others require a little more adventure. You’ll find them around Cameron Creek, the Lakeshore Trail, Marina Point and Middle Waterton Lake.

There are nearly 200 miles’ worth of hiking trails in the park, ranging from gentle strolls to intense treks. Many of them are open to cyclists and horseback riders, too, so you can explore however you wish. Short and steep, Bears Hump trail is one of our favourites. From the top, you’ll have staggering views of Waterton Valley and the Waterton Lakes. Elsewhere, the relatively flat Bellevue Trail is ideal for wildflower enthusiasts.

If you’re keen to get out on the water during your Waterton Lakes National Park holiday, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The calm surface of Emerald Bay – a picnic area by Upper Waterton Lake – is ideal for swimming, kayaking and paddle-boarding, and you can even dive down to the shipwreck of a paddle steamer. Middle Waterton Lake, meanwhile, is best for windsurfing.

And your day doesn’t need to end when the sun sets. Thanks to its lack of light pollution, Waterton Lakes offers brilliant star-gazing opportunities. As well as thousands of stars, you’ll be able to see the swirling Milky Way and distant planets.

Waterton Lakes National Park holidays are perfect for wildlife-lovers, as this place is home to all sorts of mammals. You’re likely to spot elk and deer in the lower grasslands, while bighorn sheep tend to be spotted along the mountain trails. If you’re really lucky, you might also see rarer creatures like moose and black bears.

Twitchers will be in their element, too, as the park plays host to more than 250 species of birds. You’ll see – and hear – small songbirds like American dippers, grey jays and mountain chickadees, as well as ospreys and golden eagles. Autumn is the best time for bird-watching, as huge flocks of ducks, geese and swans migrate through the park. This is also a great time to see bald eagles – just remember to pack your binoculars.

Generally, June to September is the best time for a holiday Waterton Lakes National Park. In late spring and early summer, you’ll be able to see wildflowers in the lower meadows, while the higher grasslands will be in full bloom in the height of summer. You’ll have pleasant weather for outdoor activities at this time of year, too, when temperatures tend to hover in the high teens. But the mercury can soar as high as 30°C in July and August, which are also the busiest months.

In you’re eager to see lots of wildlife, consider planning your trip for spring. You’ll be able to spot fawns, lambs, migratory birds, and possibly even bear cubs. Autumn is also a good time to go, as the sparse foliage makes the animals easier to see.

November to February is the best time for snowsports enthusiasts. But, with temperatures remaining below freezing for several months, a winter holiday here isn’t for the faint-hearted.