Waterton Lakes National Park
August, 9 to 16, 2008
Waterton Lakes National Park is tucked away in the south west corner of Alberta and avoids the fame and crowds of its big brothers Banff and Jasper. This region, where the rolling prairie suddenly meets the mountains is a World Heritage Site, a Biosphere Reserve and the worlds first International Peace Park and it is also a superb hiking destination. Well groomed gentle trails lead to pristine lakes and breathtaking scenery. We stay in comfortable accommodation and lead two hikes daily (low level and high level) to explore the plants, animals, lakes and waterfalls of this unique region. On our Exploration Day we visit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump for a fascinating glimpse of aboriginal history that dates back 11,000 years.
Day 1 The group assembles at a hotel in Calgary. Those who arrive before noon may visit the Glenbow museum, Western Canada's largest museum noted for its display of First Nation history and artifacts.
Day 2 South on the Deer Foot Trail and highway 22 to Pincher Creek for shopping. Then on to the National Park entrance. The Albertans call this Big Sky Country and if the weather permits you will see why. In the park, some may wish to explore the visitors centre, while the more energetic will climb 240 meters up the nearby Bears Hump for a panoramic view of Waterton Lake and the town site. Settle in to our B&B accommodation.
Day 3 Carthew-Alderson Trail We drive along the Akamina Parkway to Cameron Lake with its interesting visitors centre and a grand view across the lake to Mount Custer in Montana.
Low Level Hikers climb a series of moderate switchbacks to Summit Lake. After a rest stop they return to Cameron lake and take the parkway to an interesting historical site on the way to Cameron Falls and the town site. Hike distance 8.2 kilometers, elevation gain 240 meters.
High Level Hikers also climb to Summit lake then continue up an additional 380 meters to the Carthew summit with spectacular views to the south toward Glacier National Park . They then descend past three picture postcard lakes and the dramatic face of mount Alderson on route to Cameron Falls. Hike distance 18 kilometers, elevation gain 650 meters.
Day 4 Burnt Rock Falls and Crypt Lake Up early to catch the boat for the 20 minute ride across Upper Waterton Lake to Crypt Landing.
Low Level Hike from the boat landing the trail climbs moderate switchbacks for 3 km through forest then levels enroute to Burnt Rock Falls, a beautiful 15 m waterfall dropping over limestone and red argillite. Hike distance 11.2 kilometers, elevation gain 350 meters.
High Level Hike the same route as the low level hike. Beyond Burnt Rock Falls the trail climbs an open talus slope and a series of steep switchbacks ending at a steel ladder leading to a short tunnel (the crypt). Beyond the tunnel a wire assisted climb takes you to lovely little Crypt Lake. Hike distance 17.4 kilometers, elevation gain 670 meters.
Day 5 Exploration Day - Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Back to Fort Macleod (100 kilometers) and a visit to a museum that is built into the cliff face. This site was used to stampede wild buffalo for centuries and is staffed by descendents of the original users. We may be lucky enough to see a colourful display of traditional native dances. Afterwards we will visit one of the first North West Mounted Police posts established to stop American whiskey traders. If it's a dry day we could see a Musical Ride performed by talented horse women.
Day 6 Red Rock Canyon Drive the Red Rock Parkway to the parking lot.
Low Level Hike to Blakiston Falls and Snowshoe. Hike distance 16.4 kilometers, elevation gain 150 meters
High Level Hike to Blakiston Falls and Goat Lake. Hike distance 12.6 kilometers, elevation gain 400 meters
Day 7 Rowe Lakes & Lineham Ridge - considered to be one of the 5 best hikes in the Canadian Rockies.
Low Level Hike from the Alkamina Parkway via Rowe Meadow to Upper Rowe Lake. Hike distance 12.9 kilometers, elevation gain 450 meters.
High Level Hike continues above Rowe Meadow to Lineham Ridge. The last three kms are tough but the views from the ridge are incredible. Hike distance 17.2 kilometers, elevation gain 950 meters.
Day 8 Final Day - Back to Calgary where the trip ends. Suggest flights home be booked in the afternoon of Day 8.
Land cost for this trip is $1,448 plus 6% GST from Calgary. This covers van transport, park fees, the fully guided program, accommodation in cabins or hotels ( dbl. with bath.), all breakfasts and a special dinner.
Although every effort will be made to adhere to the above program changes may be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances.
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