Waterton Lakes, Alberta: 12 Beautiful Summer Experiences with Your Family
Tucked into the southwestern corner of Alberta, where prairie grasslands meet rugged Rocky Mountain peaks, Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. With epic landscapes, small-town charm, and wildlife around nearly every corner, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dream for families, couples, and nature lovers alike.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just a day, here are 12 incredible things to do in Waterton Lakes, Alberta—complete with a few of our favourite local stops, hikes, and eats.
Get Your Cowboy On at Alpine Stables
Want to see Waterton’s wild beauty from a different perspective? Saddle up at Alpine Stables for a trail ride through alpine meadows and forested foothills. Whether you’re a first-time rider or seasoned cowboy, this is an unforgettable way to experience the park’s scenery. The staff are friendly, the horses are well trained, and the views? Next-level. We booked a one-hour morning ride and had the guide to ourselves.
Drive Through the Bison Paddock
Just outside the park boundary lies a hidden gem: a drive-through bison paddock that lets you see these majestic animals up close—from the safety of your car. The short loop road offers a rare and respectful glimpse of bison in their natural habitat. It’s a must-do for wildlife lovers (and kids who want to feel like they’re on safari). We spent about half an hour and saw over 20 bison.
Visit the Waterton Lakes Visitor Centre
The modern and interactive Waterton Lakes National Park Visitor Centre is more than just a place to grab a map—it’s a destination in itself. With interpretive exhibits on the park’s ecology, history, including the devastating 2017 fire, and Indigenous culture, it’s a great way to start your visit. Don’t miss the short outdoor walk around the centre for views and interpretive signage.
Take in the Views at the Prince of Wales Hotel
Even if you’re not staying overnight, the Prince of Wales Hotel is a must-stop. Perched high above Upper Waterton Lake, this historic hotel offers one of the most iconic views in Canada. Pop inside for a photo or stay for high tea in the elegant lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows—perfect for an afternoon break with a mountain view.
Picnic in Peace Park & Explore the Village
Wander through the charming village of Waterton, filled with local shops, cafés, and ice cream stops. Then head lakeside to International Peace Park, where you can enjoy a picnic with panoramic views. There’s plenty of green space, walking paths, and benches to sit and soak it all in.
Stop by Cameron Falls
Right in the village, Cameron Falls tumbles dramatically over ancient rock and is easily accessible by foot. It’s especially pretty in the evening when the light hits the rock face just right. Fun fact: after a heavy rainfall, the falls sometimes turn pink due to coloured sediment in the water.
Drive to Cameron Lake
A scenic drive up the Akamina Parkway brings you to beautiful Cameron Lake, nestled between towering mountains. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled—we saw black bears, brown bears, big horned sheep, and deer on our visit! Rent a paddle boat, kayak, or canoe when you arrive, or simply enjoy a quiet walk along the shoreline trail.
Explore Red Rock Canyon
Another must-do drive takes you out to the Red Rock Canyon, where striking red and green rock formations line a clear mountain stream. It’s a great spot for a family hike, a walk through the cool creek, or just soaking your feet after a hot day. Several hiking trails start here, including easy loops and longer backcountry routes.
Grab Dinner at Pizza of Waterton
When hunger strikes, make your way to Pizza of Waterton, a fun, casual eatery known for its patio and trivia nights. With a relaxed vibe, great service, and something for everyone, it’s a great spot to wind down after a big day outdoors. Make sure you try the mango chicken pizza.
Visit the Waterton Planetarium
Waterton is part of a designated dark-sky preserve, and there’s no better place to learn about the stars than at the Waterton Planetarium. We took in a show about Aurora Borealis under their unique inflatable dome. If you have more time, book a night tour and go star gazing.
Walk Along Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach is a peaceful, scenic spot along the lakeshore where you’ll find, weathered logs washed up along the rocky shore. It’s an ideal place for skipping rocks, photographing mountain reflections, or simply sitting with a warm drink and taking in the view. It was very windy when we visited, so bring an extra layer.
Treat Yourself: Smoothie at Haven or Ice Cream in the Village
End your day with a refreshing smoothie from Haven, a local favourite for healthy eats and drinks. Or, if you’re craving something sweet, grab a scoop (or two) of homemade ice cream from one of the village shops. Nothing says summer like a waffle cone by the lake.
When to Visit Waterton Lakes National Park
The best time to visit Waterton Lakes National Park is between late June and early September, when trails are open, lakes are thawed, and most services are running. Summer brings wildflowers, warmer temperatures, and opportunities for paddling, hiking, and horseback riding.
That said, Waterton is known for its wind, especially around the lake. Even in summer, it can feel chilly—so bring layers.
We visited in July and stayed about 40 minutes away in the town of Pincher Creek (all of the local camping spots were full when we booked our trip). We ended up exploring the entire park in one epic 12-hour day as the weather was unusually cool and wet on our first day in the area. Ideally, I would recommend spending 2–3 days to explore at a more relaxed pace, taking in more trails, food stops, and stargazing opportunities. There are many bears in the park, so be sure to watch for signs of bears in the area and carry bear spray if you are heading out on the trails.
Why Waterton Should Be on Your Canadian Travel List
If you’re looking for a destination that offers stunning scenery, outdoor adventure, and a peaceful small-town vibe all in one, Waterton Lakes National Park should be high on your list. It’s a place where you can hike through red canyons, sip tea in a historic hotel, paddle a glacial lake, and end your day stargazing under a pitch-black sky. It’s also a little more remote and less busy than Banff and Jasper, but with just as much to offer.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Alberta or planning a dedicated stay, this little slice of the Rockies is packed with big experiences.