Waterton Glacier International Peace Park
Waterton Lakes National Park (Paahtómahksikimi) is a UNESCO site, a World Heritage Site and International Peace Park. From thrilling heights to beautiful sights, Waterton Lakes National Park is loved by tourists and locals alike.
Waterton Lakes National Park (Paahtómahksikimi) is a UNESCO site, a World Heritage Site and International Peace Park. From thrilling heights to beautiful sights, Waterton Lakes National Park is loved by tourists and locals alike.
Nestled in the southwest corner of Alberta, where prairie grasslands rise dramatically into the Rocky Mountains, Waterton Lakes National Park (Paahtómahksikimi) is a place of striking contrasts and unforgettable landscapes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, together with Montana’s Glacier National Park, the world’s first International Peace Park, Waterton is celebrated globally for both its natural beauty and its spirit of cross-border cooperation.
Here, wind-swept shorelines meet towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes reflect endless skies, and wildlife roams freely across diverse ecosystems found nowhere else in such close proximity. Visitors can hike to breathtaking alpine viewpoints, paddle across the iconic Upper Waterton Lake, explore cascading waterfalls, or simply take in the view from the shores of Cameron Lake. The park’s extensive trail network offers everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging summit climbs for those seeking a thrill.
Rich in Indigenous history and cultural significance, Paahtómahksikimi holds deep meaning for the Blackfoot people, who have stewarded these lands for generations. Today, the park continues to be a place of connection — between countries, between landscapes, and between people and nature.
Whether you’re chasing adventure, capturing the perfect photo, or looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by mountain air and prairie winds, Waterton Lakes National Park offers an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Exploring Waterton Lakes National Park
Entering the Park: Park Passes
To enter Waterton Lakes National Park, daily and annual Passes for the park can be purchased at the gate or online. Click here for more information or to get your National Parks Discovery Pass.
Note: The Canada Strong Pass is back for summer 2026! The Government of Canada is offering free admission and a 25% discount on fees for camping and overnight stays from June 19 to September 7, 2026 inclusive.
Hiking
Waterton is home to many of the best trails in Alberta filled with scenic landscapes and vast mountains with over 200 kilometres spanning the area. There are hikes for all levels of difficulty ranging from short hikes for the whole family to multi-day backpacking adventures. Whether you're after sweeping mountain vistas, rushing waterfalls, or the chance to spot wildlife, Waterton's trails deliver unforgettable experiences for every skill level.
Here are a couple of the most popular hikes:
Bear's Hump
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.8 km / 1.5 mi return
Elevation: 225 metres / 750 feet
Approx time: 1 hour
The Bear's Hump hike is an easy, short, steep climb up a rocky trail to an outcropping on Crandell Mountain, known as Bear Mountain by the Blackfoot peoples. Benches are located along the way if you need a break, and a final set of steps leads to the flat top of the "hump." From here, you're treated to one of the most iconic views of the Waterton Valley, with mountain peaks framing the valley and the prairies stretching to the north.
Crypt Lake Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 17.2 km / 10.7 mi return
Approx time: 6 hours
The Crypt Lake Trail, named one of the top 20 most thrilling hikes in North America by National Geographic, is sure to challenge any hiker. The hike is a spectacular trail that begins with a boat ride to the trailhead, passing waterfalls, and features a thrilling ladder, a tunnel, and a chain traverse along a cliff face, it's not for the fainted heart. It's easy to see why it's one of the most popular hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park.
Take a peek at the Waterton Lakes Trail Guide for all the hikes in the area.
Take a Tour
What easier way to see Waterton National Park then by taking a tour. Waterton Tours, a division of Uplift Adventures, offers sightseeing tours, guided hiking trips/ tours, and nature-based courses in Waterton Lakes National Park. Tours are designed by scientists to make science accessible to everyone as a fun and engaging experience. Their tours include sightseeing tours, guided hikes, Waterton wildflower walks, sunrise peaks & breakfast plus much more.
Operated by the team of professional guides, bringing years of guiding experience, safety-first operations, and deep local knowledge to one of Canada’s most iconic landscapes. The tours are designed for visitors who want authentic connection, responsible travel, and unforgettable moments in nature.
Website: www.watertontours.com
Email: info@watertontours.com
Phone Number: 403-583-5884
Biking
Biking is a great way to get outside and have some fun in Waterton. With more than 200 kilometres of trail in Waterton Lakes National Park, it's no surprise that hundreds of adventure-seeking cyclists are drawn to Waterton's alpine slopes and valleys each year.
The Kootenai Brown Trail is an off-road paved pathway for cyclists and pedestrians that runs alongside the Entrance Parkway, from the park gate to the townsite, offering 360 degree views of the Waterton Lakes and surrounding mountains. Mountain biking in the park is limited to five designated trails, ranging from intermediate to advanced terrain, including a challenging loop connecting the Akamina and Red Rock Parkways via the Crandell trail.
If you didn't bring your own bike, excellent rentals are available where you can rent a mountain bike.
Whether you're cruising the paved lakeside path or tackling rocky backcountry singletrack, biking is one of the finest ways to take in Waterton's stunning scenery at your own pace.
Renting a Bike
If you're looking for a leisurely ride, then you're in luck. Blakiston & Co. have e-bikes for rental, which you can then ride around the townsite, or you can rent Surrey Bikes at Pat's Gas and Cycle Rental.
Experience the Prince of Wales Hotel
Beautiful views of the lakes of Waterton meet comfort and luxury at the Prince of Wales Hotel. The hotel has been standing atop its hill since August 1926, making it the best place to catch stunning views of the park. The hotel features a gift shop, the Royal Stewart dining room, and the Windsor Lounge and Afternoon Tea Room.
If you feel like splurging, book a room!
Waterton Townsite
The Waterton townsite features boutiques for small souvenirs and restaurants to grab a quick bite to eat between activities.
Rent a bike (or e-bike), catch the boat to Crypt Lake, or join a paddle boat tour from the townsite!
Canoeing and More
If you come to Waterton for the water, then you're in luck. Take in breathtaking views on the water. There is so much to see via canoe, kayak and paddle board on lakes such as Cameron Lake and Waterton Lake.
*Note that no personal watercraft are allowed in the National Park.
Renting a SUP, Kayak or Canoe
Paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing and the equipment needed for them are just a temporary rental away when you stop in at Blakiston & Co. in Waterton.
Driving
Taking a scenic drive in Waterton is ALWAYS a good idea. There are a number of popular routes within the park so click here for more information or check out some local favourites listed below.
Cameron Falls
Located right in the Waterton townsite, Cameron Falls can't be missed. Enjoy a picnic and feel the spray from the falls. Don't forget to snap an iconic photo here!
Akamina Parkway
Going up the Akamina Parkway, you can enjoy a 16km drive up winding mountain roads ending at the gorgeous Cameron Lake!
Red Rock Parkway
Looking for another beautiful drive? The gorgeous Red Rock Parkway takes you 15km through the Blakiston Valley. At the end of the parkway there are a number of hikes including exploring the iconic Red Rock Canyon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
What is Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park?
Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is the union of Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada and Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. Established in 1932, it was the world's first International Peace Park, created not only to promote goodwill between the two nations but to recognize the international nature of wilderness and the cooperation required to protect it. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a designated International Dark Sky Park.
How far is Waterton Lakes National Park from Lethbridge?
Waterton Lakes National Park is approximately 1.5 hours southwest of Lethbridge, making it an easy and popular day trip.
Do I need a passport to visit Waterton Lakes National Park from the US?
Yes. Waterton Lakes National Park is in Canada, so a valid passport or NEXUS card is required for American visitors crossing the border. The Chief Mountain border crossing, accessed via Montana Highway 17 and Alberta Highway 6, is the only road crossing within the Peace Park itself and is open seasonally.
What is the entry fee for Waterton Lakes National Park?
Entry fees apply to visit Waterton Lakes National Park, and passes are available at park gates, the visitor centre, and online. Youth 17 and under are admitted free year-round. Parks Canada's Canada Strong Pass is also available in 2026, offering free admission and 25% off camping and overnight stays from June 19 to September 7.
When is the best time to visit Waterton Lakes National Park?
The park is open year-round, but peak season is June through September when trails, campgrounds, and facilities are fully operational. July and August are the busiest months; accommodation in the townsite books up months in advance. Shoulder seasons offer quieter visits, though some services are limited, and weather can be unpredictable at any time of year.
What are the best things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park?
Waterton offers hiking, boat tours on Waterton Lake, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and swimming at Cameron Lake. The Crypt Lake Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Canada. The townsite has shops, restaurants, and cafes, and afternoon tea at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel is a must-do experience.
Is Waterton Lakes National Park good for families?
Very much so. The park has easy walking trails, a sandy beach at Cameron Lake, boat rentals, and the Waterton townsite with ice cream shops and amenities close at hand. The Red Rock Canyon loop is particularly family-friendly. Children 17 and under also get in free with Parks Canada.
Can I cross from Waterton into Glacier National Park on the same trip?
Yes, though you'll need a valid passport and should be aware that each park is managed independently and requires its own entry pass.