Visiting Waterton for the first time? Or do you come back year after year for the mountain views, small-town hospitality, and exquisite beauty? Whether you’re here once, or time and time again, here are our “must-dos” when visiting Waterton.

Go for a Hike

It goes without saying, Waterton Lakes National Park has fantastic hiking! With over 200 km of hiking trails (that’s over 124 mi), Waterton is a mountain oasis just waiting to be discovered on two feet. So lace up your boots and get walking! There are short and sweet hikes like Linnet Lake Loop or Red Rock Canyon Loop that have great views for very little effort. Or you can get away from the crowds with longer day hikes such as Rowe Lakes or Carthew Alderson. Not sure where to go? Hire a guide from Tamarack Outdoors or Waterton Tours, Uplift Adventures and let the pros show you some hidden gems.

Travel Alberta / Katie Goldie @goldiekatie_

Visit Pat’s

Have you been to Pat’s Waterton? It’s the only gas station in town, so if you need to fuel up your vehicle, chances are you’ve been to this unique spot. More than just a gas station, Pat’s has hot coffee, snacks, fresh popcorn, apparel, souvenirs, camping supplies, propane, and so much more. Rent a bike or e-bike, or cruise around town on a Surrey bike with your friends. These four-wheeled bikes allow for multiple people to ride together under a canopy. Think a horse-drawn carriage without the horse, and your pedaling provides all the power. Top it all off with an ice cream cone, topped with scoops of Canadian-made ice cream, for the perfect summer treat.

Travel Alberta | Katie Goldie @goldiekatie_

Get on the Water

Waterton Lakes National Park is all about the lake life – it’s right in the name. Take a Waterton Shoreline Cruise and see what all the fuss is about. These cruises have been delighting visitors for over 60 years. They’re family-friendly, they’re fun, and they’re one of the best ways to see the iconic views. Want to paddle your own vessel? Blakiston and Company offers kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board rentals to explore the lake on your own steam. Cameron Lake Boat Rentals offers canoes, kayaks, pedalboats, and more on Cameron Lake. It’s the perfect way to relax on the water this summer and float your cares away.

Travel Alberta | Katie Goldie @goldiekatie_

Ride a Horse

The mountains look even better when framed by the ears of a horse. Horseback riding is a great way to see wildlife, wildflowers, and alpine habitat. Guided rides are a fantastic western adventure for the whole family! Go for an hour, go for the day, or take an overnight pack trip for a true taste of this mountain tradition. Alpine Stables is a family operation established in 1969, and they would love to show you the best of Waterton on horseback. This multi-generation outfitter is a trusted expert on all things Waterton.

Travel Alberta | Silver Fern Productions

Shop Local

Waterton is home to all kinds of unique stores that offer something special to remember your time here. Get all the gear you need for the outdoors at Tamarack Outdoors or find unique items at My Sister’s Room, Caribou Clothes, Evergreen Boutique, or Zum’s Mercantile. Find unique gifts at Akamina Gifts or The Village Gift Shop. Get everything you need for your dog Wooferton of Waterton. Find groceries and more at Rocky Mountain General Store, get your libations from Mountain Spirits Liquor Store, and find cannabis at Forest Flower Cannabis. For a sweet treat, stop by Welch’s Chocolate Shop or Switchback Microbrew Café.

Photo provided by Waterton Tourism. Photo by Robin Laurenson

Admire the Stars

If you’re in Waterton at night, look up! The International Peace Park, composed of Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park, is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. That means the night sky is protected from light pollution, which is crucial for the survival of many nocturnal species, and it’s also been shown to have positive impacts on human health. Plus, it’s gorgeous. It’s possible to see craters on the full moon, the milky way when there’s no moonlight, meteor showers, northern lights, and awe-inspiring beauty all around you. If you’re looking to learn more about the night, book a tour with Dark Sky Guides or visit during the Dark Sky Discovery Days, Sept 10 to 13, 2026.

Travel Alberta | Jeff Bartlett @photojbartlett