Best time to visit
Waterton Lakes National Park
We look forward to seeing you! Parks Canada encourages visitors to plan ahead, be patient, and consider visiting on weekdays.
What are the best days and times to visit?
The park is busiest on weekends in July and August (peak hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Long weekends are exceptionally busy.
If you choose to visit the park during peak hours, be prepared for wait times at the park gate, traffic delays, limited parking, busy trails, and limited or no campsite availability.
Parking will be congested in popular areas. If there is no parking at your chosen destination, consider exploring the Waterton village and going to your destination at a later time.
With over 600 parking stalls in the village, visitors can park anywhere in town and be a short walk away from attractions and services.
Avoid the weekend rush: visit on weekdays
If you are planning a weekend trip, visit popular areas early in the day or in the evening. Consider travelling to the park in the spring or fall.
Tips to help you enjoy your visit to Waterton Lakes National Park
- Reserve a place to stay. From late June through mid-September, most reservable campsites are booked well in advance.
- There are private campgrounds, provincial parks, and other accommodations nearby.
- Many areas of the park do not have reliable cellular coverage.
- Check the weather forecast, current trail conditions, and warnings and closures for information that may impact your plans.
- Stop in at our Visitor Centre when you arrive. The staff can answer questions you may have.
- Natural hazards exist in national parks. You are responsible for your own safety.
- Spend some time on our website before arriving to find things to do while you're here.
- Visit a quieter destination - many people find that quieter places in the park make the best memories.
Alternative attractions
There are many other destinations nearby to discover.
- Alberta Parks
- Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
- Bar U Ranch National Historic Site
- Find more suggestions on the Alberta SouthWest website
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