Hiking in Waterton
Tailored for beginners to experienced hikers, this guide covers a range of difficulty levels. The guide includes details on trail lengths, elevation gains, notable landmarks, and safety precautions. It aims to enhance the hiking experience by providing insights into the unique natural beauty and challenges Waterton offers. Whether you are a novice or seasoned hiker, the guide caters to varying preferences and fitness levels, ensuring an enjoyable exploration of the park's scenic trails.
Remember to always carry a bear spray, and to keep a safe distance and respect wildlife.
Crandell Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 km / 2 miles
Elevation gain: 140 m / 460 ft
This trail is a relatively easy and family-friendly hike, offering a delightful journey through the park's serene landscapes. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.
Wishbone Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 7 km / 4 miles
Elevation gain: 99 m / 325 ft
This trail is a scenic and moderately challenging hike that takes you through diverse landscapes. The path leads you through dense forests, open meadows, and rocky terrain. As you ascend, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail provides a good opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Upper Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Elevation gain: 550 m / 1800 ft
The journey begins with a relatively easy hike to Upper Bertha Falls, where you can witness the picturesque waterfall. Continuing on the trail, you'll encounter a more challenging ascent to Bertha Lake. You can choose to shorten this hike by turning around at the waterfall, making it a 5 km (3 miles) hike with 200 m (660 ft) of elevation gain.
Boundary Bay
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Elevation gain: 550 m / 1800 ft
This section of the Great Divide Trail from Waterton to the US border is a remote and scenic hike. Beginning at the townsite, it leads through mountain landscapes, eventually reaching the secluded Boundary Bay near the Alberta-US border.
Crypt Lake Trail
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 20 km / 12 miles
Elevation gain: 900 m / 3000 ft
This trail is a renowned and challenging hike, offering a thrilling adventre for outdoor enthusiasts. Accessible by boat, the trail unveils breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, narrow cliffside pathways, and striking mountain landscapes. The highlight is reaching Crypt Lake. The trail's unique features, such as a steel ladder and a narrow tunnel, add an element of excitement to the journey.
To be able to do this trail, you will need to reserve a place on the boat at Waterton Shoreline Cruise. Please be aware that if you miss the last boat to return to Waterton, you will be stuck on the wrong side of the lake. It is very important to be on the lakeshore for the last boat.
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