Canadian Rockies Hiking: Waterton, Kananaskis & Lake Louise

Arrival in Calgary & Waterton Lakes

Arrive in Calgary and make the overland journey south to Waterton Lakes National Park, a drive of roughly three hours. Upon arrival, the first objective is the Bertha Lake trail, an 11km route that climbs 500m via a series of demanding switchbacks through sub-alpine forest. The reward is the view from the blue-green lake back down the Waterton Valley.

After the hike, a short drive leads to Red Rock Canyon for a walk through the distinct geological formations. The day ends by setting up at a campsite inside the park, with dinner around a fire.

Crypt Lake or Carthew Summit

Today is dedicated to a full-day hike on one of Waterton's two most celebrated trails; there isn't time for both. The choice is between the Crypt Lake Trail and the Carthew Summit Trail, each a 6- to 8-hour commitment.

The Crypt Lake route begins with a ferry ride across Waterton Lake. The trail climbs through forest before breaking out into an exposed alpine bowl. The final section involves a steel ladder and a 60-foot tunnel through the mountain, and is not suitable for those with a fear of heights. The alternative, the Carthew Summit trail, is a point-to-point route past four alpine lakes, with views south into Montana's Glacier National Park.

Highwood Pass & Ptarmigan Cirque

Break camp in Waterton for the overland journey north to Kananaskis Country. The drive crosses Highwood Pass, which at 2,206m is the highest paved road in Canada. A good place to stop en route is the town of Longview, known for its local jerky.

In the afternoon, the day's hike is the Ptarmigan Cirque trail. It's a short but steep route, gaining elevation quickly to reach an alpine meadow with wide-open views of the surrounding peaks. From there, it's a short drive to the campsite to set up for the night.