5 Top Hiking Trails in Waterton

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Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the South Canadian Rockies, Waterton Lakes National Park is a haven for hiking enthusiasts

Hike Waterton! Check out these top trails in Waterton Lakes National Park
Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the South Canadian Rockies, Waterton Lakes National Park
is a haven for hiking enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, pristine lakes, and towering
peaks, the Park offers a myriad of trails catering to all levels of hikers. This blog post unveils the
top hikes you ‘must do’ in Waterton Lakes National Park.

1. Rowe Lakes Trail (multiple options, great for families)

Rowe Lakes Trail is a serene and less-traveled path that winds through old-growth
forests and opens up to multiple lakes and a beautiful alpine meadow. We love this hike
because it provides a few options for all levels of hikers, plus it still has dense forest
cover that was not affected by the 2017 Kenow Fire. Hiking to the Lower Lake, then the
alpine Rowe Meadow, and finally the option of the short but strenuous climb up to the
Upper Lake valley…it’s the perfect day on the trail. The peaceful ambiance makes it an
excellent choice for a day hike, with opportunities for wildlife sightings and bird watching
along the way. The clear waters of Upper Rowe Lake reflect the surrounding mountains,
creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely lunch. (vehicle accessible via Akamina
Parkway, angle parking provided)

2. Carthew-Alderson Trail (one-way hike, shuttle available)

Undoubtedly the crown jewel of Waterton’s trails, the Carthew-Alderson summit hike is a
challenging yet rewarding adventure. Named one of the ‘top classic hikes of the world’
by multiple publications, it is a classic ridge walk and alpine trek that promises an epic
traverse through the heart of Waterton Lakes National Park. The trail begins at Cameron
Lake and meanders through alpine meadows, skirting the U.S.-Canada border and
culminating in a steady climb to an alpine ridge with 360 degree views from the top.
Then it’s all downhill from there, meandering through Lilliputian-like meadows and
craggy boulder fields. Stopping at Alderson Lake for a snack gives your knees a break,
then it’s a forest walk down to the finish at Cameron Falls in the Waterton Village. This
full-day adventure unveils diverse ecosystems, wildlife sightings, and unparalleled views,
making it a favorite among experienced hikers seeking a ‘must do’ Waterton experience.
(shuttle options available from Tamarack Outdoors to take hikers from village to
trailhead, visit www.hikewaterton.com)

3. Forum Lake Trail (in Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park, BC)

Technically not in the National Park, this fantastic hike starts in Waterton and heads East
into the Akamina-Kishenena, a BC Provincial Park that shares its border. Forum Lake
offers a gorgeous waterfall, beautiful larch trees, and an outer-space vibe lake area, with fantastic views of Akamina Ridge and the Continental Divide. The trailhead starts on the well travelled Akamina Pass, then breaks off to lead hikers up into Forum bowl. The
alpine scenery, including wildflower-filled meadows and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, makes this trail a hidden gem for those seeking a less travelled and adventurous exploration.(vehicle accessible via Akamina Parkway, angle parking
provided)

4. Goat Lake Trail

This hike truly offers it all, with less traffic than many of the other day hikes in the area.
Starting at Red Rock Canyon, you follow an old fire road (generally flat, great to bike on!)
to access the actual trail, which climbs steeply out of the forest and into the sub-alpine.
You climb through a rugged route with exposure..but oh the views! At times you feel like
a mountain goat yourself, the trail clinging on to steep and sheer cliffs. The hanging
valley in which Goat Lake is nestled is lush and green; wildlife sightings and great fishing
are plenty. Views on to Avion Ridge, alpine meadows full of fireweed, and gentle breezes
make this trail well worth the effort. (accessible via vehicle with parking at Red Rock
Canyon lot)

5. Wishbone Trail

A birder’s delight, this multi-use (bike, hike, horseback) trail is an even pitch that gives a
unique sense of ‘the other side’ of the foothills and grasslands in Waterton Lakes
National Park. Hiking from the trailhead off the Chief Mountain Border Highway (Hwy 6),
you disappear into a magical forest of aspen trees, wildflowers and gentle swells. Hiking
all the way up to ‘Lion’s Head’ brings a slight elevation to the day, but one can spend a
lovely afternoon not going the distance and spending time exploring and relaxing on the
Lower Waterton Lake shorefront. Bring a picnic as there is a sandy shoreline along parts
of the lake! A great hike for those with accessibility concerns as well as small children.
(parking lot/trailhead off Chief Mountain Highway)

Waterton Lakes National Park stands as a testament to the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian
Rockies. Its network of well maintained hiking trails offers a diverse range of experiences for
nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you’re scaling mountain ridges, exploring
hidden lakes, or enjoying family-friendly trails, Waterton’s hiking trails promise a connection with
nature and breathtaking landscapes that will leave an indelible mark on your memories. Lace up
your boots and embrace the trail in beautiful Waterton Lakes National Park.