Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Waterton Lakes National Park
Q:What is the recommended stay duration at Waterton Lakes National Park?
A:Minimalist (2 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: ½ day
Hiking/Exploring: 1 day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: ½ day
Adventurist (3 - 4 Days)
Driving/Sightseeing: ½ day – 1 day
Hiking/Exploring: 2 days
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1 day
Notes: The scenery in Waterton Lakes National Park is stunning! You will probably want to devote half a day to just gazing across Waterton Reservoir and Waterton Lake at the vivid blue waters and the breathtaking mountain backdrop. There are a few scenic drives in the park that are worth setting aside half a day to drive and explore, the Chief Mtn. Hwy, the Red Rock Parkway and the Akamina Parkway. In addition, there are more than 120 miles of hiking trails inside Waterton Lakes National Park. The hiking trails in Waterton range in length and difficulty from short walking paths with very little elevation gain, to steep treks that stretch deep into the park. Adventure seekers will want to set aside at least a day to a day and a half for hiking a few of the popular trails that lead through Waterton’s stunning countryside. Fishing, bird watching and wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the park as well.
Q:Are pets allowed in Waterton Lakes National Park?
A:As long as your pet is on a leash at all times, they are allowed in the park. Pets in the park that are unleashed may cause problems for you and themselves by attracting wildlife. You can not leave your pet unattended or tied up to an object. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet (1.8 meters) at all times. Owners must clean up after their pets.
Q:As a visitor to the park, what can I expect to do while I'm at Waterton Lakes National Park?
A:There are stables nearby for horseback riding in the Waterton National Park area. Theres Cameron Lake nearby, a Glacial formed Alpine Lake where visitors canoe or paddle boat. Red Rock Canyon Road, a mountain trail that goes by black bear and grizzly habitats. At the end of the road is a mountain canyon where Big Horn Sheep are often seen grazing. There are also boats cruises and of course miles and miles of hiking trails for visitors to explore.
Q:What are the entrance fees for Waterton Lakes National Park?
A:A day pass provides entry into Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Waterton Lakes and Elk Island. The pass is valid until 4:00 pm on the day after purchase. Park passes are available in person at Canad's park gates and information centers.
Daily
Adult $10.50
Senior $9.00
Youth FREE
Family/Group $21.00
Adult: Person 18 to 64 years of age Senior: Person 65 years of age or over Youth: Person 6 to 17 years of age Family/Group: Up to seven people arriving in a single vehicle in a national park. School Groups: Students of elementary and secondary schools.
Q:Where are the red chairs at?
A:
Red chairs are spread through out the park. There are four sets to be found at Waterton Lakes. You can find them at the middle Lake boat launch, Marina Point, Lakeshore Trail, and Cameron Creek.
Q:Is there cellular and WiFi service?
A:
Cellular service is very limited in Waterton Lakes. Due to its remote location reception is only available through Telus and Bell. Public WiFi is not available. Most lodges offer WiFi to registered guests.
Q:What scenic drives are in Waterton Lakes?
A:
Waterton Lakes National Park offers many scenic drives that are great for spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing. All parkways have pull-offs and viewing points. Entrance Parkway goes from the park gate to Waterton townsite offering great views of Waterton Valley. Red Rock Parkway travels up the Blakiston Valley to Red Rock Canyon. Chief Mountain Highway is the main route between Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park in the United States. Bison Paddock Loop Road is inside the park's north boundary this road offers an opportunity to see bison.
Q:When can I see wildflowers at Waterton Lakes?
A:
A great time to view wildflowers at Waterton Lake is from late Spring to early Summer. The park has over 400 types of flowering plants, Mid-June is when you will see the most variety. Places to go to see wildflowers are the Blakiston Fan, Bellevue Trail, Horseshoe Basin, and Cameron Lakeshore Trail. Be sure to stay on trails and roads, so you do not endanger the flower's habitat.
Q:Do I need a passport?
A:
Yes, a valid passport is required when crossing the border into Canada and back into the USA.
Q:Where can I stargaze at?
A:
Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park in the United States are now part of the International Dark-Sky Association and designated as an International Dark Sky Park. Waterton Lakes' locations for viewing stars are Cameron Bay, Red Rock Parkway, and The Bison Paddock Overlook.
