Wildlife in Waterton

Wildlife watchers are never disappointed. The grasslands covering the lower mountain sides provide important food sources attracting wildlife; as well as open views which make them more visible here. It is common to see some sort of wildlife in Waterton whether it be a black bear on the side of a hill or big horn sheep in the village. All year, wildlife wanders the townsite or can be found resting on a resident’s lawn. This guaranteed experience is what makes Waterton so special. The best time to experience these phenomenal glimpses of nature is in early fall. During this time, the bugling call of an elk can be heard of two male big horn sheep during rutting season. All this within the most gorgeous settings in the Canadian Rockies.

Wildflowers in Waterton

Among our natural riches are the diversity of plants and flowers. In late spring-early summer, Waterton is filled with the aroma of rare Alberta wildflowers. The vibrant colours of these veritable bouquets pop against the green vegetation in spring. You’re in the “Wildflower Capital of Canada.” More than half of Alberta’s plant species are found here. Waterton’s four ecoregions: foothills parkland, montane, subalpine, and alpine are home to 45 vegetation communities. Sixteen of these are rare or fragile and threatened. Waterton’s ecological wonder includes an unusually high number of rare plants – over 175 are provincially rare and more than twenty of these are found only in the Waterton area!

Consider taking an e-bike along the Red Rock road to the parkway, a horseback trail ride, or a hike to take in this rare experience in Waterton.