Nature & Wildlife

Exploring the Park in the spring and summer is the best time to see the vibrant display of wildflowers. Over 1,000 species of plants have been recorded within the park and many of those are wildflowers. It is the perfect place to hunt for those rare blooms you might have on your “Must- See” list. Over 175 species are provincially rare and more than 23 species are found only in the Waterton area. More than 50 species are rare around Canada.

Among some of the notable wildflowers are the majestic Beargrass, the most well known flower of Waterton. With its large fluffy heads made up of tiny white petals and tall green stalks, this flower normally only grows on the west side of the Continental Divide. Due to Waterton’s unique weather systems that come from the Pacific we see a multitude of blooms of this favorite flower! Another vibrant favorite is Fireweed, which carpets the landscape with its striking pink blooms. Since the Kenow Wildfire of 2017 we have seen large numbers of fireweed blooming all over the Park. Other Waterton wildflowers include the spring blooming Glacier Lily, the beautiful yellow Arnica, and the colorful Paint Brush.

Wildflowers play a crucial role in the park’s ecosystem. They provide essential habitat and food sources for insects, birds, and other wildlife. Many wildflower species also possess medicinal properties and cultural significance, making them valuable resources for Indigenous communities and researchers.

Different species of wildflowers can be found in each of the four ecosystems that are represented in Waterton. The Foothills Parkland, the Montane, the Subalpine and the Alpine. In the lower elevations, visitors can see meadows blanketed with flower blooms, while higher up, alpine elevations offer glimpses of rare and elusive species clinging to rocky crevices.

There are many great spots to see Wildflowers in the Park, some accessible by vehicle and others only by foot or horseback. View the Wildflower Itinerary for details.

Wildlife Thrives in Waterton

There is no shortage of incredible wildlife to see in Waterton. Despite being one of the smaller National Parks, Waterton has a huge variety of wildlife and no other National Park protects so many species per square kilometre as Waterton. It’s because they love it here! And what wildlife wouldn’t with over half of all plant species in Alberta found within Waterton? More than 60 species of mammals, 250 species of birds, 24 species of fish and 10 species of reptiles and amphibians can be found in the National Park including grizzly and black bears, wolves, coyotes, cougars and bighorn sheep.

Wildlife safety

While we do consider them locals, we recommend watching wildlife from a distance. We need to remember that we’re in their territory so we have to be respectful. Make sure any food or drinks you have been put into a bear-safe trash can. When going for a hike make sure to carry bear spray, make some noise and travel in a group.

Where are the best places to see them

Many animals are most active in the early morning hours (sunrise), in the early evening (sunset) and during the night. For your safety, always hike during the day and check the weather and trail conditions before leaving.

• Townsite: Bighorn sheep, deer and ground squirrels are commonly seen and typically stay long enough for the camera, as long as you are shooting from a safe distance.
• Park’s Grasslands: This distinct area is often referred to as “Where the Mountains Meet the Prairies.” It provides important range for elk, mule, deer, and white-tailed deer.
• Mountain Trails: Small mammals, birds, deer and bighorn sheep are commonly seen along mountain trails.
• Bison Paddock Road: Bison can be found anywhere within the paddock but are frequently spotted near the various natural springs. You may get lucky enough to have Bison wander right up to the road! Ensure that you stay in your vehicle at all times as Bison can be extremely dangerous.

When on the trails, remember to:

• Always carry bear spray, ensure it is accessible and know how to use it before heading out on the trails;
• Make noise to let wildlife know you are in the area;
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and never wear ear buds or headphones to avoid surprise encounters that do not give wildlife time to decide how to react; and
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Do not feed the animals. Many animals may seem tame, but feeding endangers yourself, the animal, and other visitors. It is also illegal in accordance with the Canada National Parks Act.
• Keep pets on a leash. It is illegal to have pets off-leash in a national park.