Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta

Tucked away in the south-western corner of Albertaview from atop Carthew Summit and a misty walk
and running along the Canada-USA border, isthrough one of Waterton's oldest forests. Both these
Waterton Lakes National Park. The Canadian side oftrails can be accessed at Cameron Falls (in Waterton
the park actually combines with Montana's Glaciertownsite) but - while the Bear's Hump can be hiked in
National Park creating an international peace park. Theabout an hour - the Carthew-Alderson takes a full
park is an unspoiled gem that is rife with anday (18 kms).
assortment of natural attractions. Some of the park'sIn addition to numerous inns, lodges and motels, for
most visited sites include Cameron Falls and Redaccommodation there is also the Prince of Wales
Rock Canyon, both serving as great backdrops forHotel. The 86-room hotel, named after the popular
wildlife viewing, day hikes and more. There is also anPrince Edward, was opened in 1927. Its steep, sloping
18-hole public Golf Course.gabled roof is an area landmark and attracts many
Waterton town site is located in the heart ofthat consider a stay at The Prince of Wales an
Waterton Lakes National Park and provides easyannual tradition. Its romantic appeal has made it a
access to all the park's attractions, along withfavorite for honeymooners for more than half a
numerous restaurants, accommodations and giftcentury.
shops. Here one can also board the historic M.V.Other activities in the area include fishing the "blue
International that has been cruising Waterton Lakeribbon" trout streams, snorkeling and scuba diving and
since 1927. It's a two and a quarter hours cruise,guided tours of every kind. As an example High Five
which includes a half hour stop-over at the GoatAdventures offer a guided tour of the area on
Haunt Visitor Center in Montana's Glacier Park.mountain bikes or you can see the country and have
Experienced Guides provide an informativea llama carry the load. Or, if you really want to get
commentary. Tours operate from the end of April toaway from the crowds, you can participate in a
the beginning of October.cattle drive, herding 400 cattle on a 3-day adventure
Hiking is a favourite pastime of those who frequentthrough the Porcupine Hills to the historic Waldron
the Waterton area and the Crypt Lake TrailRanch. There are guided trips ranging from two days
continues to impress hikers of all skill levels. It is ratedto two weeks in the Canadian Rockies in and around
one of Canada's top-rated hiking trails. After theWaterton Lakes National Park. These are rugged and
boat-taxi across Waterton Lake hikers set off ontoremote trails that are off the tourist's beaten track.
the trail. Points of interest along the trail include aEach trip typically includes all equipment &
186-m (600-ft) waterfall, natural tunnels and ansupplies, accommodation, guide, meals and your own
assortment of wildlife. The destination is theindividually assigned horse. For more information on
turquoise Crypt Lake.any of these activities, simply Google Waterton
Bear's Hump Trail is another of Waterton's mostLakes National Park and follow the links.
popular trails. Hikers are rewarded at the top ofTo access the Waterton Lakes, besides car rentals,
Bear's Hump with a panoramic view of the entirethere is Carefree Express Ltd., a motorcoach tour
park. The Carthew-Alderson Trail is another of thecompany operating from Lethbridge since 1983 that
popular trails in Waterton Lakes National Park. Theoffers personalized service with deluxe
trail winds through the Rockies, showcasing themotorcoaches.
ecological diversity of the park with a breath-taking