Hiking

There are 225 km (191 miles) of trails in Waterton Lakes that range in difficulty from short strolls to strenuous treks. Some trails connect with the trail systems of Glacier and British Columbia's Akamina-Kishenina Provincial Park. The wildflowers in June are particularly stunning along most trails. Hiking Glacier and Waterton National Parks, by Erik Molvar, has detailed information including pictures and GPS-compatible maps for 60 of the best hiking trails in both parks.

Tours

Waterton Outdoor Adventures. This is the headquarters for hiker shuttle services that run throughout Waterton to most major trailheads; you can reserve shuttles up to two months ahead. Waterton Outdoor Adventures can also arrange certified hiking guides for groups. Tamarack Outdoor Outfitters, 214 Mt. View Rd., Waterton Townsite, Alberta. 403/859–2378; www.hikewaterton.com. From C$13.50. May–Sept..

Easy

Bear's Hump Trail. This steep 2.8-km (1.4-mile) trail climbs up the mountainside to an overlook with a great view of Upper Waterton Lake and the townsite. Easy. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta.

Cameron Lake Shore Trail. This relatively flat paved trail, 1.6 km (1 mile) one-way, is a peaceful place for a walk. Look for wildflowers along the shoreline and grizzlies on the lower slopes of the mountains at the far end of the lake. Easy. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta.

Crandell Lake Trail. This 2½-km (1½-mile) trail winds through fragrant pine forest, ending at a popular mountain lake. Easy. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta.

Moderate

Bertha Lake Trail. This 11.4-km (7.1-mile) round-trip trail leads from the Waterton Townsite through a Douglas fir forest to a beautiful overlook of Upper Waterton Lake, then continues on to Lower Bertha Falls. From there, a steeper climb takes you past Upper Bertha Falls to Bertha Lake. In June, the wildflowers along the trail are stunning. Moderate. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta.

Difficult

Crypt Lake Trail. Awe-inspiring and strenuous, this 17.2-km (11-mile) round-trip trail is one of the most stunning hikes in the Canadian Rockies. Conquering the trail involves taking a boat taxi across Waterton Lake, climbing 700 meters (2,300 feet), crawling through a tunnel nearly 30 meters (100 feet) long, and scrambling across a sheer rock face. The reward, and well worth it: views of a 183-meter (600-foot) cascading waterfall and the turquoise waters of Crypt Lake. Difficult. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta.