(Experience Our Dark Skies

When the sun sets in Waterton, tilt your gaze to the night sky and be amazed. As urban centers continue to expand, artificial light pollution further encroaches upon the natural light that burns brightly above. However, our International Peace Park is committed to providing an astounding astronomical experience and protect it for the benefit of future generations.

An International Dark Sky Park is an area protected for natural conservation that possesses an exceptional starry night sky. With only 100 Dark Sky Designations on Earth, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park became the world’s first international trans-boundary Dark Sky Park in 2017. We must use dark sky compliant light fixtures and provide programs while continually investing in new dark sky initiatives to receive this designation.

Top Three reasons for maintaining dark skies:

1. They’ve been proven to positively impact human health 2. Dark skies are crucial for the continued survival of the many nocturnal species found in the area 3. They are an awe-inspiring experience Waterton Stargazing Experiences

If you don’t have binoculars, no problems! You can still expect to see thousands of stars twinkling overhead. And depending on the time of your visit, there may be opportunities to observe:

• Craters on the face of a full moon • The Milky Way on a night without moonlight • A clear visual of a meteor shower • Northern Lights - you can frequently catch a glimpse!

Local Tip:

A telescope will enhance the experience but for those who are new to astronomy or without stargazing equipment, inquire about Parks Canada’s interpretive offerings, or sign up for a night time tour, provided by local tour companies.

You can make a difference:

Help care for our dark sky environment by getting involved in reducing light pollution at home too! Speak with Parks Canada staff or local Waterton tour guides to learn more.

Certified local Guides passionately help you explore the Dark Skies

Quality Telescopes & Stargazing Binoculars available on some tours

Small group sizes ensure a personal, safe, authentic experience

Stargaze year round with us on a Snowshoe Winter Adventure Tour

Tour Bus pick up / drop off available

When the sound of thunder and rain echoes across the valley, there are lots of fun activities to keep you entertained while visiting Waterton. Check out these ideas!

BOARD GAMES

Most hotels have board games – just check at the front desk! Or, check out our shops downtown. Many of them offer playing cards, board games, and other fun indoor games that you can share with the kids. There’s something special about playing family games on a rainy day while on vacation!

PAMPER YOURSELF

Shift your focus to reconnecting not just with nature but with yourself. Treat yourself to a massage, pedicure or the whole works and feel completely relaxed and rejuvenated.

CAFÉ CURL-UP

Grab a cup of cocoa, coffee or other hot beverage and perhaps your favourite sweet, at any one of the restaurants in town!

HIGH TEA AT THE PRINCE OF WALES

Enjoy a selection of teas and a variety of sandwiches, squares and pastries while overlooking the Waterton Lakes.

CATCH A MOVIE

With vintage seats and historical charm, the Waterton Lakes Opera House Movie Theatre is the place to watch a favourite flick and enjoy fresh buttered popcorn.

PICNIC IN CAMP SHELTERS BY THE LAKESHORE

Fun is what you make it and listening to the rain bounce off the roof while enjoying a picnic or hot beverage is a Waterton experience you will remember forever.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT / LIVE BANDS

Some restaurants regularly bring in local artists, so leave the entertaining to professionals and go sing along!

STAY ACTIVE INDOORS

Go swimming! If you do not have access to a pool, purchase a pass from Waterton Lakes Lodge. It is also equipped with a hot tub and dry sauna. You can crank up the music and break out a sweat to the view of the majestic mountains.

Experience Waterton

Restaurants

NEW MENU!

Pearl’s Cafe

Pearl’s Cafe is the hiker’s hub of Waterton and offers grab-and-go lunches, great coffee, and the best breakfast in town! pearlscafe.ca 403-859-2660

Pizza of Waterton

Pizza of Waterton has been operating in the park for over 20 years and offers mouth-watering pizzas and more for lunch and dinner. pizzaofwaterton.com 403-859-2660

Vimy’s Lounge & Grill

Casual, family-friendly dining with great variety for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located in Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort. vimys.com 403-859-2150

Crandell Mountain Lodge

Crandell has been welcoming guests to Waterton since 1940 and offers the most charming and quaint rooms in the townsite. crandellmountainlodge.com 403-859-2288

Accommodations

Aspen Village

Offering Waterton’s widest variety of rooms, from private family cottages to standard hotel rooms, majority of rooms have been recently renovated. aspenvillageinn.com 403-859-2255

Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort

The Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort has 80 well appointed rooms, from standard hotel style to full kitchens, onsite gift shop and Vimy’s Lounge & Grill. watertonlakeslodge.com 403-859-2150

Photo Courtesy of Travel Alberta / John Price

There is something magical about Waterton in the winter

In the winter, the park and especially the village, are filled with a deep, peaceful quiet that is impossible to replicate anywhere else. Snow and ice transform Waterton into a frozen haven.

The roads are plowed but there’s only a handful of people using them. When you walk down the street, the only sound you hear is snow crunching under your boots, breaking the golden silence. Your companions are the local herds of elk, deer, and mountain sheep as they trek to another stand of willow to chew. At night, the stars add magic in the way they reflect brightly off the snow and light up the town. The best part is most times, you get to enjoy this all to yourself.

This is the time to visit, unplug, relax and rejuvenate. This is the perfect place for some ME or US time. Fireplaces are blazing and there’s plenty of warmth to share among those who make Waterton their home. Grab a book, sit by the fire and relax or cuddle. Most of the tourism operators shut down for the season but a few lodges stay open just for you and they offer fantastic winter specials. Accommodations range from standard hotel rooms, to romantic deluxe suites with fireplaces and jetted tubs, to full kitchen suites. Many rooms have excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

Dining choices are limited but provide you with an excellent culinary experience. Red Rock Trattoria is Waterton’s newest restaurant. It is located in the Waterton Glacier Suites, with a beautiful décor and delightful menu, it is a must, when visiting. Historically, the Vimy’s Lounge and Grill offered up plentiful portions of delicious food. However, expect to see the Crandell Mountain Lodge and newly rebuild Kilmorey Lodge open during the winter months!

Things to do in the winter Cross-country skiing: This is a good place to get off the beaten path. Terrain is mostly ungroomed as fewer visitors frequent this area in the winter. It really is the best hidden secret. And what better way to uncover them than to glide along an ungroomed trail, weaving through the trees, and inhaling that crisp alpine air while creating your own path.

Snow-shoeing: Bertha Point promises jaw-dropping views of the Waterton Valley and Prince of Wales Hotel. The best way to experience this is snow-shoeing this short trail and is a great workout and will leave you exhausted but rejuvenated at the same time. If you are needing extra adventure, carry on the trail to Bertha Falls, you won’t be disappointed.

Wildlife Viewing: If this is on your bucket list be sure to check out the Blakiston Fan, which is south of the Entrance Parkway between Lower and Middle Waterton Lakes. This area typically hosts hundreds of elk and if you linger you might just see them crossing the Waterton River. Snow, mud and sand are great for discovering signs of wildlife. For fun, search for wildlife tracks and try to determine the animals that made them. Walk the Townsite: When you are ready to stretch your legs and inhale the remarkably crisp and fresh mountain air, take a hike through town to the partially frozen Cameron Falls. Or walk along the Townsite Trail to Emerald Bay and explore the Prince of Wales lookout and the Linnet Lake Loop.

Some other fun things to do in Waterton in the winter include tobogganing the Prince of Wales hill, camping at the Pass Creek picnic site, ice skating, bird watching, fat biking, stargazing and taking amazing photographs. It simply does not matter if you prefer solitude or adventure, experience Waterton this winter!

Note: water and barrier free washrooms are available at the Fire Hall and at Cameron Falls.

Identifying Wildlife Tracks: snow, mud and sand are great for discovering signs of wildlife. You may not be able to see the animal, but you will know it has passed by. Try to determine what animals made the tracks. Finding these wildlife tracks can be an adventure for the whole family. Parks Canada’s wildlife safety tips at parkscanada.gc.ca/wild-in-waterton

• Open daily at 6:30 am for Breakfast • Grab an on-the-go Hikers lunch • Relax on our covered patio!

• Starbucks specialty coffee drinks • Assortment of fresh baked goods & healthy snacks • Homemade sandwiches and soup

Photos Courtesy of Ekta Banga

Waterton Lakes National Park, a wildlife-watcher’s paradise, is home to moose, bear, elk, deer, lynx and 57 other mammals, not to mention 250 species of birds – all in this 505 sq. km. protected area. And there’s ample opportunity to capture a photograph of these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Often the townsite and roadways will be congested with deer or big horn sheep and the odds are good that you’ll see ground squirrels scurrying by. When hiking, don’t be surprised if you come across fresh laid tracks, diggings, or scat indicating the recent presence of wildlife.

Waterton supports an abundance of wildlife because of the four ecoregions within the park. Each ecoregion hosts unique plant life, which in turn, supports distinct wildlife. In addition, the park is located within close proximity to other well-managed areas each of which also provides a diverse habitat where an array of plants and animal can thrive.

If you love wildlife viewing, September is an ideal month to visit the park. Deer, elk and bighorn sheep mate in the fall, so they are looking their best; with antlers at peak growth and thick, shiny coats. This is also the time of year when you can hear the bugling of the majestic bull elk and see their large harems or watch the head-butting tests of strength by bighorn sheep.

Photos Courtesy of Leonard Heinonejn

Be Bear Aware • When hiking in bear country, make sure to announce your presence to wildlife by talking loudly, singing or clapping. • Hiking with four or more people is recommended. • If you do encounter a bear, stay calm and talk to the bear as you back away slowly. Do not turn your back. Remain in the group and attempt to make yourself appear bigger. Pick up your small children. Do not drop your backpack. Keep bear spray accessible and make sure you know how to use it. • In the unlikely event that you encounter a cougar or wolf, immediately pick up small children and pets. Make yourself as large as possible. Maintain eye contact and back away slowly. Do not run and do not play dead.

Best Time of Day to View Wildlife Wildlife tend to be less active during the day, plan to go during the early morning hours, in the late afternoon, or early evening.

Best Places to View Wildlife • Townsite: Bighorn sheep, deer and ground squirrels are commonly seen and typically stay still long enough for the camera, as long as you are shooting from a safe distance. • Park’s Grasslands: This distinct area is often referred to as

“Where the Mountains Meet the Prairies”. It provides important range for elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer. • Mountain Trails: If you feel like you are being watched, you just might be! Small mammals, birds, deer, and bighorn sheep are commonly seen along mountain trails.

The abundance of wildlife is one of Waterton’s biggest draws. However, it is important that we keep the ‘Wild’ in Wildlife. We have a big role to play in helping to keep wildlife safe. For your own health and safety, please keep the following in mind:

Do not feed the animals: Many animals may seem tame, but feeding them endangers yourself, the animal, and other visitors. Animals become aggressive when looking for handouts (even the smallest critters, such as squirrels). It is also illegal in accordance with the Canada National Parks Act.

Store food safely: Keep food in your vehicle or out of reach of animals. Just leaving it in a cooler isn’t good enough.

Keep pets on a lead: It is illegal to have pets off-leash in a national park. Some wild animals will demonstrate aggressive behavior towards pets, especially dogs. Keep your distance: Although it’s tempting to get close to wildlife for a better look, or a selfie, this action disturbs the animal, and in many cases, they become aggressive and dangerous. It is recommended to stay at least 30 m (100 ft) away from large mammals – and even farther away from bears.

Drive carefully: The most common cause of premature death for large mammals is being hit by vehicles. If you spot wildlife while driving, pull your vehicle fully onto the shoulder of the road to avoid being hit by other vehicles. For your own safety, and the safety of the animal, please remain in your vehicle, especially if you see a bear or a bull elk.

Consult Parks Canada for more wildlife viewing and safety tips: parkscanada.gc.ca/waterton-wildlife 2022 visitor guide ad.pdf 1 2022-04-11 12:22:30 PM

the the

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

TACOS & BURRITOS Margaritas & Beer OUTDOOR DINING HOMEMADE SALSA

Vegetarian/ vegan options

Gluten Free

corner of windflower ave/cameron falls dr @thetacobarwaterton #watertontacos watertontacos.wixsite.com

The authentic western way of life is still alive in Alberta. Waterton is the southernmost community along Hwy 22, affectionately known as The Cowboy Trail. If you are heading north, drive this scenic route along the eastern slopes of the Canadian Rockies and be sure to stop at the Bar U Ranch, a National Historic Site operated by Parks Canada. For more about what you can see and do along this incredible 700 km journey, be sure to pick up a copy of Experience Western Adventures and Cowboy Trails.

Canada’s Mormon Trail is a 2-4 hour self-guided driving tour in Alberta near the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Located just 45 minutes east of Waterton, along Hwy 5, the town of Cardston is the westernmost community on this trail. Here you will find the Remington Carriage Museum which features more than 250 horsedrawn vehicles. Three other communities belong to the Mormon Trail, namely: Magrath, Raymond and Stirling. Historically, 2 of the 4 towns host Alberta’s Chautauqua a festival of local history with lively entertainment and tons of wholesome family fun.

The North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) was the forerunner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). You probably recognize the scarlet tunic and blue trousers of this, Canada’s iconic federal police force.

Established in 1873, the NWMP was modelled after the Royal Irish Constabulary. Reports stressed the symbolic importance of the traditional British army uniform among First Nations. The NWMP ended the whiskey trade on the southern prairies and the violence that came with it.

The Fort Museum is located 75 minutes northeast of Waterton, in Fort MacLeod. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the NWMP and First Nations People. It started its world famous Musical Ride in 1973. For up-to-date times in 2021 visit nwmpmuseum.com.

ALPINE STABLES

THE ONLY HORSE RIDING EXPERIENCE RIGHT IN WATERTON PARK!

A WESTERN ADVENTURE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Open MAY to OCTOBER for hourly, half-day, or full day trips. *Reservations are required. Family business spanning more than 50 years and 5 generations

CALL 403.859.2462 or OFF SEASON 403.653.2089

Rocky Ridge Country Lodge • Six bedrooms (2 with lofts) • Separate 3 bedroom cabin • Hot tub Toll Free 1-888-717-7770 Rockyridgecountrylodge.com

nwmpmuseum.com 403-553-4703 info@nwmpmuseum.com

NWMP Musical Ride

July - August

Weather Permitting

Museum Open

M.V. International

Built on Waterton Lake in 1927, the 165-passenger Historic M.V. International shuttles passengers across the liquid border shimmering between Goat Haunt, Montana and Emerald Bay in Waterton Park, Alberta. Once upon a time, during the days of Alberta’s so-called Blue-Laws, the vessel was used as a boat of festivities, so that people could step aboard to enjoy music, dance and drink in Montana (outside of Alberta’s jurisdiction.)

The International is part of the fleet, manned by the family, owned-and-operated by the Waterton Shoreline Cruise Company. It is the oldest operating passenger vessel in Canada. The International is a wooden ship of cedar and fir planking on oak frames and is continuously being maintained using traditional shipbuilding techniques.

Waterton’s Wreck: The Gertrude

Below the depths of Emerald Bay lies the steam paddle wheeler, “Gertrude”. Built in 1907 on Maskinonge Lake in Waterton, she was originally used as a work boat for a nearby sawmill, but eventually transitioned into a tea room and restaurant moored in Emerald Bay. In 1918, Gertrude was deliberately scuttled in the bay and is now a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts with a penchant for history.

Historical Photos can be found at:

cardstonhistoricalsociety.org/waterton_park

International Peace Park Dedication Ceremony from 1936 Courtesy of Parks Canada The area that we now call Waterton Lakes National Park has a long history with nomadic Indigenous peoples who first arrived here after the last glacial retreat, more than 10,000 years ago. They followed herds of migrating bison and would camp, hunt, and gather plants along the waterways here.

The introduction of horses (circa 1725) changed everything.

First Nations began to hunt buffalo from horseback and were also able to expand their territories. The arrival of Europeans brought the first wave of small pox among the indigenous comminites which decimated the population at the time.

It wasn’t until 1858 that the first European visited the area. Lieutenant Thomas Blakiston was a member of the Palliser Expedition, tasked by the learned Royal Geographical Society of England with discovering a route through the mountains to the Pacific coast. On a scouting expedition, Blakiston came

across the three large lakes here and named them “Waterton”, as a tribute to Sir Charles Waterton, a well-known naturalist.

John George “Kootenai” (long hair) Brown arrived in 1865. Years later, he returned here to hunt, fish, trade, guide and ranch. In 1911, he became Waterton’s first Park Superintendent and was a key player in the evolution of the park’s conservation policies.

In 1932, Waterton Lakes National Park, along with Glacier National Park in Montana, United States became the world’s first International Peace Park. Recognizing its significance in ecological diversity and its model of cooperation and good will, our Peace Park was also officially designated a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1995.

The park has two national historic sites located within its boundaries: The First Oil Well in Western Canada National Historic Site (NHS) was designated in 1968. Similiarily, the Prince of Wales Hotel NHS was designated in 1995.

Make memories at the Waterton Community Centre

Kootenai Brown (circa 1910), Courtesy of Glenbow Archives (NA-1234-5

Photos Courtesy of Ryanne Hollies Photography

Located in the heart of Waterton, our beautiful renewed historic schoolhouse is the gem you ’ ve been looking for!

• A premier rental facility for weddings, reunions, retreats, seminars, conferences and more! • Featuring: 2 classic schoolrooms, reception hall, full catering kitchen, gymnasium. Audio visual equipment and high speed internet available.