Waterton Lakes National Park may be small compared to its Rocky Mountain cousins, but it packs an outsized punch. With jaw-dropping mountain scenery, rich history, and wildlife you won’t find anywhere else in Canada, even a short stop here is unforgettable. If you’ve only got 2–3 hours to spare, don’t worry—you can still experience some of Waterton’s most iconic spots without feeling rushed.
Here are five quick things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park that give you a real taste of this one-of-a-kind destination:
1. Take in Upper Waterton Lake
If you only do one thing, make it this. Upper Waterton Lake is the crown jewel of the park, and there are a few quick but memorable ways to soak it in:
- Hike Bear’s Hump: A short but steep trail that rewards you with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks. It’s well-travelled, so you don’t need to worry about locating trail markers or losing your way. Pro tip: Don’t forget to pack water and snacks.
- Prince of Wales Hotel: Settle into a window seat at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel and sip afternoon tea with panoramic views. Pro tip: Make a reservation ahead of time to ensure your spot.
- Scenic cruise: Got about an hour? Hop on the classic boat cruise and experience the lake from the water, crossing the U.S. border into Montana without even noticing. Pro tip: You have to book your tickets in-person, so get there early.
2. Drive the scenic parkways – Akamina & Red Rock
Waterton’s two main parkways are scenic adventures in themselves. Each parkway takes roughly an hour to drive with minimal stops. If you’d like to pause for photos, enjoy the views, or explore side trails, plan for extra time.
- Akamina Parkway: About an hour round trip, ending at Cameron Lake, a serene alpine lake perfect for a quick paddle in a rented canoe or a peaceful stroll along the shoreline.
- Red Rock Parkway: Winding through colourful valleys to Red Rock Canyon, this drive is stunning in any season. If you’ve got a bit of wiggle room, add the short walk to Blakiston Falls for cascading views.
3. Drive the Waterton Bison Paddock Loop
Bison once roamed these plains in massive herds before being nearly hunted to extinction by settlers. Today, you can still see them in the Bison Paddock, just outside the park gates. The Bison Paddock Loop Road is a short drive-through road that lets you safely view these magnificent animals up close from the comfort of your car. Bring binoculars—you might catch a glimpse of calves, or even a dominant bull surveying his herd.
4. Stroll the Waterton Townsite
Don’t skip the charm of the village itself—this is one of the best things to do in Waterton in under an hour. A few quick highlights:
- Cameron Falls: A short stroll from the centre of town to see a dramatic cascade right in the village.
- Lakeshore Path: A gentle trail along Upper Waterton Lake with interpretive signs, perfect for stretching your legs.
- Local treats and shops: Grab an ice cream, sip a coffee, or poke around the small-town shops for unique souvenirs.
5. Stop at the Chief Mountain Highway Viewpoint
Before you head out, drive up Chief Mountain Highway Viewpoint for one of the best vantage points in the park. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the peaks that make this park so unforgettable. It’s the perfect way to cap off a quick trip.
Make the most of your time: Take a tour with Uplift Adventures
If you’ve only got a couple of hours, why not make every minute count?
At Uplift Adventures, our guides are locals, professional interpreters, scientists, and geologists trained to bring Waterton’s landscapes to life.
Instead of simply seeing Cameron Falls or Upper Waterton Lake, you’ll learn how they formed, the plants and animals that thrive there, and the stories hidden in the rocks. Our team includes experts with deep knowledge in geology, ecology, and history, so every stop on your adventure becomes an opportunity to connect more deeply with the park.
Whether it’s a few hours or a full day, we’ll handle the details so you can relax and make the most of your time—and make every moment count.
Reach out, tell us how much time you have, and what you like to do, and we’ll help plan your personalized Waterton experience, or view our seasonal Waterton Hiking Tours (summer and fall).