If you are a fan of all things great outdoors and you happen to be in Canada this summer make sure Waterton Park is on your bucket list. From scenic hikes to afternoon tea, this international peace park has it all. Located in Southern Alberta, alongside the Montana border, this park is steeped in history and makes the ideal holiday destination. I should know. I spent the summer of 2023 working at the Prince of Wales hotel as the bartender. During my time there I had plenty of opportunities to explore every inch of the park. So let’s move on as I tell you the top 5 things you can do in Waterton National Park.
1. Rent a bike
If you have just arrived in Waterton and want to explore the town I’d recommend heading straight to Pats for a bike rental. Located in the middle of the town Pats may just become your favourite gas station (yes I really have a favourite gas station). They have state of the art bikes for everyone as well as The Surrey Bicycle that can seat 5 people at once. if you wanted to make a day of it you could bike to Cameron Lake and enjoy a nice swim.
2. Hit the lake with a kayak or paddle board
If the water is calling your name get yourself over to Blakistons where you can rent a kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board. Located just a short walk from the lake behind Kilmorey Hotel, Blakistons have your lake days covered. Life jackets are also provided so you can stay safe while you enjoy the lake.
3. Visit the local cinema
If the weather is not in your favour or you just feel like a movie day then head over to Watertons one and only cinema. The Waterton Lakes Opera house feels like stepping back in time. The seats are all on one level but there is plenty of room and the screen is huge. There is usually just one showing a day at 7:30pm, and yes there is only one choice of movie! Queue up outside by the ticket box the get your ticket. Then move inside where you can purchase all your essential movie snacks and finally grab a seat, sit back and enjoy.
4. Get your walking boots and hit the peaks
My favorite thing about Waterton National Park was the sheer amount of hikes there are to choose from. If you just want to do something short but rewarding I would recommend giving Bears Hump a go. Located just outside the town past the Prince of Wales hotel this hike has a steep incline and a fantastic view of the town. Best of all? It shouldn’t take you any longer than 30 minutes to reach the top!
If you want a longer hike that’s not too strenuous give Boundry Bay a go. This is more like a walk than a hike with a bit of incline and decline along the way. You will have the opportunity to walk along the lake all the way to the US border. The hike is about 4 hours at 8.1 miles.
Want something more challenging? Why not try one of the many famous peaks? Crandell, Beartha, Vimmy and Carthew Alderson all vary but offer a challenging hike that will fill your day. If you are after something a little different give Crypt Lake a go. Just remember you will need to take a boat to the start of the trail so be sure to check times and get a ticket before you go.
Don’t forget to check out my blog post here on hiking safety before you set out.
5. Afternoon tea at the Prince of Wales
After a weekend of hikes and water sports you’re probably feeling a little tired. Get ready for one of the best experiences in Waterton National Park. Time to kick back, relax and enjoy some afternoon tea with some fantastic views. Enjoy a range of sandwiches and sweet treats all made in house alongside a selection of tea from Banff while you gaze across the gorgeous lake of Waterton. Afternoon tea is nearly always busy so be sure to reserve yourself a spot in advance.
6. Horseback Riding
If you’re still seeking a bit of adventure head on over to Alpine stables. At about a 20 minute walk out of the town this place is for horse lovers and hikers alike. They offer guided rides around Waterton at different durations from 1 hour to 5. If you want a challenge they also offer overnight packages where you explore the park and camp overnight before coming back the next day. If that sounds like too much you could do one of their all day rides and head up Vimmy or follow the Horseshoe Basin.
From visitors