When temperatures rise and the sun comes out, fields, parks, and gardens from coast to coast will be in full bloom, but few trails will be as vibrant as those in Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta.
Located just north of the U.S. border, this enchanting destination is well known for its postcard views, charming village, and its nickname, the Wildflower Capital of Canada.
Why should you pick Waterton?
While this incredible park is worth a visit no matter the time of year, the hills come alive in the late spring and early summer.
In the winter, gas stations and restaurants are closed, and it can get pretty busy come summertime, but just after the snow has melted, before the crowds roll in, the air is “filled with the aroma of rare Alberta wildflowers.”
Described as a “wonderland,” Waterton is home to over 175 provincially rare plants, some of which are exclusive to the area.
“Waterton Park is a biosphere reserve, meaning it has been set aside by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) as a region which is unique in its ecology,” it explains on the Waterton Park website.
“Of the 45 vegetation types identified in Waterton’s recent Ecological Land Classification, 16 are considered significant because they are rare (small area in park) or fragile and threatened.”
Where to see the wildflowers
Want to see them for yourself?
Visitors can explore with or without a guide from companies like Tamarack Adventures, which offers a “Wild Side of Flowers” tour in June.
They’re also encouraged to take an e-bike along the Red Rock road to the parkway, or they can take a horseback ride with the professional equestrians from Alpine Stables.
If, however, you’d like to go solo, Parks Canada suggests the Blakiston fan, a protected habitat for the critically endangered half-moon hairstreak butterfly, as well as the Bellevue trail, a 7.4-kilometre there-and-back trail they call “one of the best hikes for wildflower enthusiasts.”
There’s also the Horseshoe Basin, which is a quiet trek accessible from Highway 6, and the Cameron Lakeshore trail, where you’ll find beargrass in abundance.
What else can you do in the park?
If you’re among the many who want to check it out, but want to make the most of your drive, consider staying the night in Waterton.
With over 500 square kilometres of fun, Waterton Lakes has a little something for everyone.
In addition to the flowers, hikes, and wildlife, the park also has a small townsite where visitors can shop, eat, and rest.
Hit the Taco Bar for a quick bite, or take your time at the Royal Stewart Dining Room.
Pick up something for your friends and family at Akamina Gifts or the Evergreen Boutique, then get some shuteye at the Prince of Wales Hotel, which was built in 1927, or the Bay Shore Inn and Spa, where they filmed a scene for The Last of Us.
“Whether you are planning a day trip or an extended stay, we have everything you need,” Waterton Tourism writes about the village.
“Discover the charming Waterton townsite where local family businesses with generations of history welcome you.”
It really is a special place, Alberta, so pack light and enjoy.
You’re in for an extraordinary trip — one you won’t soon forget, just make sure you stop and smell the flowers.
Happy visiting!
Where: Directions here
Recent Posts:
A magical boardwalk winds through an ancient forest on an island in Alberta
There’s a ‘Hobbit’-inspired house at a magical medieval village in Alberta
