Tamarack Trail

View of most of Waterton’s peaks, as well as some in British Columbia and the United States.

Tamarack Trail is a great multi-day hike and very popular among experienced backpackers. The journey is nearly 32 km (20 miles) long and most hikers take two days to complete it. Transportation to the trailhead is required, and there are several shuttle services in town that will be happy to take you there. You can choose to start at the Rowe Lake trailhead along the Akamina Parkway or conversely Red Rock Canyon. If you choose the latter, the trail leads hikers past the brilliantly coloured Red Rock Canyon, along the Bauerman Creek and beyond the campsite at Snowshoe Cabin. You’ll venture onward to Twin Lakes and run into a second campsite nearby. There are several stream crossings along the way and countless vistas where Mother Nature will stop you in your tracks with her breathtaking handiwork. Camping at the designated Lone Lake campground acts as the half way point. The next day you can continue onwards to Lineham Ridge and lastly Rowe Lakes. The Tamarack Trail is spectacular in late September and early October, not only because of the stunning topography, but also because of the tree it is named for. Tamaracks, also referred to as the Larch, are a showy display of bright yellow in the fall, so if you can make the trek then, do so.

Distance: 36 km / 23 mi
Elevation Gain: 1630 m / 5350 ft. (North – South) or 1510 m / 4955 ft. (South-North)
Rating: Difficult
Hiking Time: 10-12 hours

Catch the Tamarack Trail Traveller Shuttle for easy access to this trail. Please contact Waterton Outdoor Adventures for information on times and current rates.

NOTE: This trail offers a Guided Hiking Experience with an option to hire a local Interpretative Hiking Guide. Please visit Tamarack Adventures for more information.

Submit a Trail Report to Parks Canada