Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada
Winter Activities
Winter in Waterton is a quiet time when visitors can experience the park blanketed in snow. It's an excellent time to enjoy mountain scenery, and opportunities abound for photographing wildlife such as elk, deer and bighorn sheep.
From late fall to early spring, most park facilities are closed, and very few services are available in the village.
Travel Conditions
Waterton's weather and snow conditions vary dramatically. Be prepared for conditions ranging from warm wet weather to extreme cold. Poor visibility, icy roads and drifting snow occur frequently. The entrance road leading to the village remains open year round while the Akamina Parkway is maintained to the Little Prairie picnic site, three kilometres from Cameron Lake. The Red Rock Parkway and the Chief Mountain Highway are closed to vehicles during winter months.
Camping
Camping is available free of charge at Pass Creek picnic site, located on the entrance road five kilometres from the village. Facilities include a kitchen shelter, wood stove, and toilets. Water from the creek may be used if treated or boiled before use. Heated washrooms and running water are available at the Firehall located in the village.
Wilderness Camping
A Wilderness Use Pass is required for overnight camping at designated backcountry campsites. There is no charge for this pass during winter months and self-registration is available at the registration box located at the warden office entrance. Opportunities for random winter camping are limited and available by prior arrangement only. To book a random campsite or to obtain further information, contact the warden office at (403) 859-5140 Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. MST.
Cross Country skiing
Waterton has two designated cross country ski trails located along the upper Akamina Parkway. The Dipper ski trail (6.5 km return - moderate) begins at the Rowe trailhead while the Cameron ski trail (5 km return - easy) begins at the Little Prairie picnic site and is a good choice for novice skiers and families. Please note: dogs are prohibited on cross country ski trails.
Snowshoeing
Visitors can snowshoe at many locations in Waterton. Bertha Falls and Crandell Lake are two popular destinations. When snowshoeing in areas with designated ski trails, please preserve the trail by snowshoeing beside ski tracks, not on them.
Ski Touring
Depending on snow conditions, excellent opportunities for ski touring may exist on or off the park's trail system. Popular trails include Crandell Lake and Akamina Pass (easy-moderate), Rowe Trail, Summit Lake, and Wall/Forum Lakes (all difficult). These trails are not marked or maintained and may be subject to avalanche hazard. Groups ski touring in the backcountry should carry avalanche beacons, have a knowledge of avalanche conditions and route evaluation, and be capable of self rescue. A detailed avalanche forecast and information regarding backcountry skiing conditions are available by contacting the warden office (403) 859-5140 or by contacting the Canadian Avalanche Association (1-800-667-1105).
Ice Climbing
There are a number of locations in Waterton suitable for ice climbing. Climbers should check at the warden office for best locations, current conditions and avalanche hazards.
Hazardous Activity Registration
Voluntary self registration is available at the warden office to anyone undertaking what they consider to be a hazardous activity. Registration is provided to ensure your safe completion of an activity. Once registered you must return your registration at the completion of your activity. If staff are not available to assist you, you may self register at the station located at the entrance to the Warden office.
- Human Use Management Strategy