Safety on water

Canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding, swimming, scuba diving and fishing, are all popular ways to spend your day at the lake. Staying safe in and around water is important, no matter what activity you’re enjoying.

• Cold water hazards: Even if it is warm outside, park waters are very cold. Water temperatures in Upper Waterton Lake are typically around 10-15°C, even later in the summer. Capsizing in these waters may result in hypothermia and may be life-threatening.
• Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): All visitors are required to wear an approved personal flotation device while on the water.
• Be prepared: Carry the necessary safety equipment and verify that your vessel is properly prepared. This includes: a whistle, spare paddle, bailer or water pump, rope, emergency kit, and a communication device in a waterproof container. These items can save your life.
• Choose activities to suit your group: Ensure that it matches your group’s experience, fitness level, equipment, preparedness, and is suitable for the conditions.
• Alcohol and cannabis don't mix with water: Consuming alcohol and/or cannabis and operating motorized or non-motorized watercraft is illegal.
• Weather conditions: Weather in Waterton often changes rapidly. Check the weather forecast before heading on any adventure. Get off the water if you hear thunder or see lightning.

Beaches and swimming

On hot summer days, you may want to go for a dip in Upper Waterton Lake. It’s important to remember that the lake is very cold, drops off quickly and is subject to strong winds. There are several popular locations to consider for swimming on your next visit.

Emerald Bay: Close to the townsite, this is the most popular water recreation area on Upper Waterton Lake. In this area, stay clear of the marina and the marker buoys.

Cameron Bay: This bay at the south end of the Waterton townsite can be more sheltered than the rest of the lakeshore in town. Parking and picnic tables are available.

Hay Barn Day Use Area: Along the Waterton River, where Middle Waterton Lake flows into Lower Waterton (Knight’s) Lake. Be mindful of the river’s current. Note: the trail leading to the Waterton River from Hay Barn is not marked and may be overgrown. Some route finding may be required.

Driftwood Beach: Explore Middle Waterton Lake while wandering amongst the driftwood piles on the shoreline, deposited by the prevailing winds from the south.

Day Use and picnic areas

Swimming safety

• Be aware that "swimmer's itch", a small parasite that causes itching and irritation, is present in some smaller water bodies, particularly Linnet Lake.
• Never leave children alone in or near water.
• Watch your step: Take care when crossing streams.
• Know your swimming limitations and stay within them. Don’t try to keep up with more experienced or stronger swimmers. Weak swimmers and children should wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD).
• Life rings have been posted at Emerald Bay, Townsite marina, Cameron Bay and Cameron Lake use areas for visitor use during emergencies.
• In case of emergency, dial 911.