Summer Fun in Waterton: 11 Things You Have to See and Do

Tucked away at the foot of the mountains of southern Alberta lies Waterton Lakes National Park. The views here will take your breath away at every turn. With fun, discovery and wonder around every corner and over every peak, you’ll question how this UNESCO World Heritage site flies under the radar. The truth is that’s just part of the magic of this place.

The town of Waterton sits just north of Glacier National Park and the U.S. border in Montana. Take in unbelievable wildflower blooms and wildlife on scenic drives. Cruise across the lake and into the United States. Indulge in world-class cuisine. Hike for views unlike anything you’ve ever seen. It’s all waiting for you in Waterton.

Taste your way through the park

Hungry for a taste of Waterton? Fresh, classic Italian dishes and a vast selection of local and Italian wines land Red Rock Trattoria on the must-stop list. Looking for classic pub fare? Thirsty Bear Kitchen + Bar is open every day with great food, beer on tap and live entertainment. Wieners of Waterton is cooking up hotdogs like you’ve never seen. Local sausages and fresh-baked buns pair with one-of-a-kind toppings for a uniquely Waterton hotdog experience. Check out the largest patio in the park at Lakeside Chophouse, where their award-winning chef crafts dishes with ingredients gathered from around the world.

Stroll to Cameron Falls

Now that you’ve had a bite to eat in town, it’s time to start seeing the sights. In Waterton, you won’t have to travel far. Located on the west end of the townsite is Cameron Falls. Watch as the mountain water crashes down over ancient rock, then hike the short path to an overlook for a different perspective. Don’t forget to snap a pic or two!

Shine a new light on the night sky

Lose yourself in the depths of the night sky like nowhere else. Dark Sky Guides offers guided nighttime tours and stargazing right from the park. They provide the telescopes and binoculars. All you have to bring is your curiosity. You’ll learn about the moon, neighbouring planets, constellations, the northern lights and even distant star clusters.

Experience the serenity of Upper Waterton Lake

Dip your toes into the turquoise waters of the deepest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, Upper Waterton Lake. Emerald Bay’s calm waters are perfect for swimming and paddle boarding while flanked by Mount Citadel and Mount Cleveland. If you’re a diver, pack your scuba gear and you can even explore the wreckage of a sunken ship.

When you’re ready to go beyond Emerald Bay, book a tour with Waterton Shoreline Cruise Co. Their scenic cruises offer open-air seating above deck to get the best views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling water. The tour ventures south on the lake, even crossing into the United States briefly before arriving back on Canadian soil – no passports required!

Stay in a hotel steeped in historic charm

The Prince of Wales Hotel overlooks Waterton Lakes and the township of Waterton, where it has stood since 1927. The hotel is committed to its roots, decorated as it was nearly a century ago with elegant yet rustic styling. Staying at the Prince of Wales is guaranteed to be a memorable experience, and unique to Waterton Lakes National Park. You can even bring a bit of the experience home with you by visiting Princess Gifts and Café inside the hotel. Here you’ll find a selection of items to celebrate your trip, from jewelry to fine china and gourmet treats.

Dining at the Prince of Wales is as incredible as the surrounding views. The Royal Stewart Dining Room offers carefully executed Canadian cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea offers a taste of British tradition with carefully chosen teas, delectable sandwiches and delicious pastries. Looking to enhance your evening? The Windsor Lounge is the go-to for a nightcap before retiring for the night.

Create your own micro-adventure at Cameron Lake

Follow the twists and turns of the Akamina Parkway as you take in the surrounding mountains and wildlife on your way to Cameron Lake. Hiking trailheads dot the road as you make your way up the parkway, presenting many chances to stretch your legs.

Once at the lake, learn about the area through interpretive exhibits and follow a short, easy trail along the western shore of the lake.

Looking for more adventure? Make your way to Summit Lake on the Carthew-Alderson trail,

which rises quickly out of the valley on a series of switchbacks. Canoes, rowboats and paddle boats are also available for rent at Cameron Lake Boat Rentals for fans of the water.

Take a walk in Red Rock Canyon

Take the Red Rock Parkway and make your way up the Blakiston Valley until you hit the end of the road, surrounded by scenic mountain vistas and wildflowers. The Red Rock Canyon features iron-rich argillite rock that gives the canyon its name. Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon with the family or follow the self-guided trail that loops around the canyon for more views of the glistening mountain stream running through the red rocks.

Discover where the bison roam

Venture onto the Bison Paddock Loop, just inside the park boundary, and be transported back in time. You’ll get a chance to see descendants of the original herd of Great Plains bison living and grazing in their natural habitat, where the prairies meet the mountains. The bison roam the enclosure at their own leisure, meaning it might be worth a couple of trips to get the best possible view of these majestic creatures.

Get to know Waterton’s history in style

Tour the park and let someone else handle the driving with Open Top Touring. Their vintage-inspired open-top vehicles are an iconic site in the park. Pack your camera and snap photos to your heart’s content while guides share the lesser-known history of the park, including the story of the Prince of Wales Hotel and how the park got its name.

Play an unforgettable round of golf

You’ve never seen a course quite like the Waterton Lakes Golf Course. Dramatic mountain and valley views follow you as you play through the Stanley Thompson-inspired design. A Red Seal chef awaits you at the full-service clubhouse as well, so be sure to work in a meal after your round.

Rent a unique ride

Pat’s Waterton is one of the oldest buildings in Waterton Lakes National Park, standing since 1927. You can pop in for a coffee or a snack, but the real draw is the bike rentals. Head out on a mountain bike, grab a partner and tour the town together on a tandem bike, or bring the whole family on the unique Surrey Bicycle, a five-seater shaped more like a car than a bicycle.