Waterton Lakes NP
The first stop in my Canadian trip has been Waterton Lakes NP. It is a medium size park, with only one way in (unless crossing the US border on a trail from the South) well known to locals especially for the day hikes but not very popular among foreigners, so it usually can be enjoyed also during peak season without the fear of major crowds.
I’ve spent four full days in the park, exploring the three main areas: Waterton village and the surroundings of Waterton lakes, Red Rock Canyon and Cameron Lake. While in the village I also had the chance to enjoy a Blackfeet pow-wow which was an unexpected great addition to my experience in the park.
Waterton village, dominated by the iconic Prince of Wales hotel, is the perfect place to start exploring in the morning and the ideal retreat to relax in the evening after a day surrounded by nature: a lot of hiking trails start right from the streets, deers are usually seen in front of the houses, civilization is far away but all comforts are easily found if/when needed. During my stay I opted for the short but strenuous Bear’s Hump trail for the view and the popular trail leading to Bertha Lake.
Red Rock Canyon area, the name says it all, revolves around a canyon, that in a way seems out of place here but provides great views, and Blakiston Falls, both easily accessible from the road ending there. Several backcountry trails lead further away to the Northern boundaries of the park but I decided to take it easy the first day and didn’t go that far.
Cameron Lake, an idyllic lake early in the morning, is the place for canoeing and some of the best trails like the Carthew-Alderson leading all the way back to the Waterton village after 20 km of spectacular views. I decided that was too much and opted for Wall Lake with a digression to Forum Falls for my day hike and I fully enjoyed it.
Overall my time in Waterton NP was above expectations, I had a great time and it was probably the best way to start my holidays and forget about everything else. I highly recommend to spend several days in the park and explore!
