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City known for:
  • Wildflowers
  • Dramatic views
  • Quiet moments

A historic hamlet in the heart of the Southern Rockies.

Waterton often surprises first-timers. Five deep-blue lakes make way to staggering mountains, waterfalls descend through canyons and stars sparkle in pitch-black skies.

It’s a year-round outdoor adventure haven for everything from hiking and biking to canoeing and snowshoeing. Between escapades, the inviting townsite offers every amenity imaginable. So go ahead and unleash your Wild Side.

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Waterton highlights

Scenic shot of woman and a dog sitting on rocks /hiking and taking a picture of the water and mountains in the distance

Less crowded Canadian Rockies

Explore quiet, uncluttered cliffs, especially on weekdays in early summer or fall. Waterton may be the path less trodden, but it is equal in beauty and opportunity.

Hiker jumping over rocks at Red Rock Canyon

Endless outdoor experiences

Wander to where mountains meet prairies and find an array of activities on and off the water, including hiking, scuba diving and horseback riding.

Scenic view from the water of the Prince of Wales Hotel at sunset in Waterton Lakes National Park.

Historic sites and spaces

Canada’s fourth national park boasts classic architecture and untouched wilderness. Step back in time on charming streets and at an iconic waterfront lodge.

A group on horseback explore Waterton Lakes National Park.
Northern lights above mountains with a starry night sky in Waterton Lake National Park.
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A couple on a snowy winter hike in Waterton.
A woman stands on Bear's Hump overlooking Waterton.
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A group out snowshoeing with The Prince of Wales Hotel in the background.
A group out paddleboarding on a lake in Waterton.

What to do and where to stay in Waterton

Stories from the city

A group of women skiing and snowboarding, jackets tied around their waist, while Spring Skiing at Sunshine Village in Banff National Park.
6 min read Why Alberta Is the Best Spot for Spring Skiing

Spring skiing in Alberta offers quality snow and a sunny après-ski scene. Most Alberta ski resorts operate through April, and some stretch into May, for more days on the slopes.

A group of four people relaxing and taking in the panoramic mountain views, at the Cliffhouse Bistro on Mt. Norquay located in Banff National Park.
8 min read Discover Alberta’s Best Spots for Après-Ski

Alberta’s après-ski blends mountain hospitality with creative food and drinks in the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. From intimate lounges to bustling breweries, each venue brings its personality to the post-slope ritual.

A skier rips down a slope at Lake Louise Ski Resort under a blue sky with the snow-capped Rockies in the background.
9 min read The Ultimate Guide to Downhill Skiing in Alberta

Find the best Alberta ski resorts in the Canadian Rockies, where deep snow, epic views and a welcoming vibe make every winter trip memorable.

A stand of trees with vibrant yellow trees surrounded by distant mountains
8 min read See Alberta’s Golden Side with these Immersive Fall Colours Walks

From Rocky Mountain trails to vibrant walks in Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta offers spectacular fall hiking and walking. Experts reveal hidden gems where golden leaves and native grasslands create colourful autumn adventures.

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A woman takes photos of wildflowers with the Prince of Wales Hotel in the background.

Did you know?

If you’re in Waterton in June, stop to smell the flowers! There are over 400 kinds of flowers to find in Waterton Lakes National Park, and guided wildflower hikes are available.

Suggested Itineraries

Paddleboarders glide across the turquoise water of Moraine Lake, with the Rocky Mountains in the distance.
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Alberta Adventure: Summer Road Trip Inspiration

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Two horses stand beside a wooden fence on a bright winter day in Alberta's Canadian Rockies on the set of HBO's The Last of Us.
7 days
The Last of Us Filming Locations: An Alberta Road Trip

Step into the world of HBO’s The Last of Us and discover the Alberta landscapes that brought this acclaimed series to life. From dramatic mountain views and charming towns, to the streets of Calgary and Edmonton, this road trip takes you through filming locations from the Last of Us. The show is streaming now on Crave.

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Nearby cities to explore

Beautiful colours light the sky over Peace Bridge in Calgary.
Calgary
A woman sits on a bench in front of the Medicine Hat mural in winter.
Medicine Hat
A group of people dog sledding in Spray Lakes, Kananaskis.
Canmore & Kananaskis
The main street of Banff in winter with lights on all the storefronts and a mountain in the background.
Banff & Lake Louise