As regular readers know, I eagerly signed up for the free Canada National Parks Pass for 2017 earlier this year. This was a great promotion done by Canada in honor of their 150th Anniversary. Recently I flew into Calgary with fellow blogger, Josh, and toured the famous Banff National Park along with Kootenay National Park and then dipped down into Montana to hike in Glacier National Park. On the return trip, almost on a whim, we decided to check out Waterton Lakes National Park which is adjacent to Glacier NP but on the Canadian side of the border.
Wow! I was blown away. As beautiful as the other Parks were, I really enjoyed Waterton Lakes. It had similar scenery to Glacier NP (which is absolutely gorgeous of course), but was built around the small gateway town of Waterton. Waterton kind of reminded me of Bar Harbor in a way, right on the water and surrounded by breathtaking views in every direction.
Since we had limited time, we hiked Bears Hump and checked out the Red Rock Canyon. We were lucky enough to see a grizzly bear up close from the safety of our car and toured the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel. The friendly staff at the Prince of Wales was able to make a great restaurant recommendation for us in town with great views of the lake (Zum’s Eatery).
Josh and I on top of Bears Hump. I look taller, but really Josh has me by an inch or so.
The very popular Red Rock Canyon
The iconic Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes NP
Grizzly bear munching away in Waterton Lakes NP
One experience that we didn’t get to do, that will be at the top of my list for my next visit is to take the ferry to Goat’s Haunt. You will cruise the length of the Upper Waterton Lake into Montana (bring your passport) and be dropped off at Goat’s Haunt. This was somewhere we wanted to hike to in Glacier NP but it would be a multi day backcountry hike to get to and back. I had not even considered that there could be an option from Canada to take you there quickly and efficiently.
I can’t wait until my next visit to Waterton Lakes. I hope to see you there. rk
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