Winter Activities in Waterton Lakes National Park

Winter Activities in Waterton Lakes National Park

Kimberly Lillington
If you're looking to unplug and rejuvenate, make sure you visit Waterton Lakes National Park in the winter! Or perhaps you're seeking a quiet, romantic getaway where you can really focus on each other. Whatever your needs, experiencing the peaceful park in the middle of our long Canadian winters is a unique and invigorating experience you'll be sure to remember. This guide covers some of the top guided winter activities in the park, as well as beautifully cozy winter hotel stays.
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Dark Sky Guides

1. Waterton Planetarium

The newest attraction in Waterton! Visit the inflatable dome planetarium for stunning presentations about star gazing, natural history, space exploration and the impacts of light pollution. This is truly one of the best night sky experiences in the park, as well as being the regions only planetarium! Located in the Falls Interpretive Theatre, near Cameron Falls in the townsite. 

2. Starry Skies Townsite Stroll 

Explore the Waterton townsite after dark during this pleasant nighttime guided stroll. Learn about how the park is working to reduce light pollution, identify constellations with the naked eye and maybe even spot one our local nocturnal creatures! Approximately 1.25 hrs. in length. Dress for Canadian winter weather.

3. Discover Snowshoeing Tour

Perfect for beginners, this guided tour covers all the basics of snowshoeing - proper gear selection, techniques and how to navigate changing snow conditions. Approximately 1.5 hrs. in length, this adventure will take your appreciation of our Canadian winter wonderland to a whole new level. Dress for Canadian winter weather.

4. Snowshoe Winter Adventure Tour

Designed with the novice snowshoer in mind, this unique after-dark tour during the coldest and darkest months of the year will open your eyes to a whole new side of the park. If the weather is right, you will even have the chance to stargaze and hunt for constellations above your trail. Approximately 1.5 hrs. in length and moderate difficulty. Dress for Canadian winter weather.

Tamarack Outdoors

1. Guided Cross-Country Skiing 

Glide through the park with a local CANSI guide and hear stories of the past and present of Waterton Lakes National Park. Approximately 2 hrs. in length. Rental equipment available. Dress for Canadian winter weather.

2. Winter Heritage Walk 'n' Talk

Led by a local Interpretive Guide, embark on a peaceful winter adventure where you will learn all about the history of Waterton and why experiencing the park in the quiet of winter is so incredibly special.  Approximately 1hr in length. Dress for Canadian winter weather. 

Cameron Lake 

Snowshoe or Cross-Country ski up to the mountain lake.

Your adventure starts by driving up the Akamina Parkway, all the way to a large barricade. Once you reach the barricade you will park, strap into your snowshoes or skis and begin your 45-minute-long excursion up to Cameron Lake. Enjoy the frozen wonderland by relaxing along the shore with a hot cocoa and snacks or continue your adventure by trekking around the lake for an even deeper appreciation of the stunning winter vistas. 

Where to Stay in Waterton in Winter

If you've ever spent time in Waterton during the winter, you will know that it is THE place for peace & quiet in the wild....

Waterton Glacier Suites

My personal favourite hotel within the park, this all-suite destination is the perfect blend of comfort and cozy. In-room fireplaces, balconies and jetted jacuzzi tubs are among the many enticing features found within the hotel. With 3 different styles of suites (I can't rave enough about the Romantic Suites - incredible!) there is a room to fit any traveler's needs. 

Waterton Glacier Suites
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The Kilmorey Lodge

This hotel is both the newest AND one of the oldest hotels within the park. The original lodge was built in 1926 and has since been entirely rebuilt after a tragic fire in 2009. Honouring its history while embracing modern aesthetics, the Kilmorey Lodge offers a variety of rooms and suites to accommodate any need. 

Kilmorey Restaurant & Pub
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