Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park form an international peace park, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience two stunning national parks in one trip. This guide explores the attractions, hiking trails, accommodations, and wildlife viewing opportunities in both parks, with a focus on accessing Glacier National Park via Waterton Canada.
What are the main attractions in Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park?
Glacier National Park Attractions
- Going-to-the-Sun Road
- 50-mile scenic road spanning the park
- Offers breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers
- Engineering marvel with scenic viewpoints
-
Peak visitation: Over 800,000 visitors at West Entrance (June-August)
-
Logan Pass
- Highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Known for alpine meadows and wildlife viewing
-
Popular spot for mountain goats and bighorn sheep sightings
-
Many Glacier
- Scenic area with hotel, boat tours, and hiking trails
- Over 260,000 visitors during peak season
- Access to Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine
Waterton Lakes National Park Attractions
- Prince of Wales Hotel
- Historic hotel with stunning views of Upper Waterton Lake
-
Part of the nearly 526,000 visitors to the park in 2023/24
-
Upper Waterton Lake
- Deepest lake in the Canadian Rockies
- Offers boat tours and scenic drives
-
International border crossing with Glacier National Park
-
Bear’s Hump Trail
- Short but steep hike with panoramic views
- Popular among day hikers
What are the best hiking trails in both parks?
Glacier National Park Hiking Trails
- Highline Trail
- Length: 7.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Elevation Gain: Minimal, but high elevation
- Notable Landmarks: Scenic valley views, Granite Park Chalet
-
Accessibility: July to October (weather dependent)
-
Grinnell Glacier Trail
- Length: 10.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Elevation Gain: 1,900 feet
- Notable Landmarks: Grinnell Glacier, Grinnell Lake
- Accessibility: July to October (weather dependent)
Waterton Lakes National Park Hiking Trails
- Carthew-Alderson Trail
- Length: 18.3 miles one way
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Elevation Gain: Significant, multiple summits
- Notable Landmarks: Carthew Summit, Alderson Lake
-
Accessibility: Best from July to September
-
Bear’s Hump Trail
- Length: 1.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 738 feet
- Notable Landmarks: Panoramic views of Waterton Townsite
- Accessibility: May to October (weather dependent)
Where can visitors stay in Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park?
Glacier National Park Accommodations
| Accommodation | Type | Capacity | Price Range | Amenities | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Many Glacier Hotel | Hotel | 200+ rooms | Moderate to high | Restaurant, boat tours, hiking access | Many Glacier area |
| Apgar Campground | Campground | 194+ sites | Low to moderate | Restrooms, potable water | Near West Entrance |
| Lake McDonald Lodge | Lodge | 80+ rooms | Moderate to high | Restaurant, boat tours, hiking access | Lake McDonald shores |
Waterton Lakes National Park Accommodations
| Accommodation | Type | Capacity | Price Range | Amenities | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prince of Wales Hotel | Hotel | 80+ rooms | High | Restaurant, scenic views | Waterton Townsite |
| Townsite Campground | Campground | 120+ sites | Low to moderate | Restrooms, potable water | Waterton Townsite |
What wildlife viewing opportunities are available in both parks?
Glacier National Park Wildlife
- Mountain Goats and Bighorn Sheep
- Best viewing: Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Peak season: June to August
-
Regulations: Keep safe distance, no feeding
-
Grizzly Bears and Black Bears
- Best viewing: Various hiking trails and backcountry areas
- Active: Throughout summer and early fall
- Regulations: Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking
Waterton Lakes National Park Wildlife
- Bison and Elk
- Best viewing: Upper Waterton Lake area, Cameron Falls trail
- Peak season: June to September
-
Regulations: Keep safe distance, no feeding
-
Moose and Deer
- Best viewing: Various hiking trails and wetland areas
- Active: Throughout summer and early fall
- Regulations: Follow park guidelines, keep safe distance
How can visitors plan their trip to Glacier National Park via Waterton Canada?
- Choose the best time to visit
- Peak season: June to August
-
Shoulder seasons: May and September (fewer crowds, potential weather challenges)
-
Plan your route
- Enter Canada through the Waterton Lakes National Park
-
Cross the border into Glacier National Park at Chief Mountain border crossing (seasonal)
-
Obtain necessary documents
- Valid passport for international travel
-
Check current border crossing requirements
-
Make reservations in advance
- Accommodations in both parks fill up quickly during peak season
-
Consider booking guided tours or boat trips
-
Prepare for outdoor activities
- Pack appropriate gear for hiking and wildlife viewing
- Familiarize yourself with park regulations and safety guidelines
By exploring Glacier National Park via Waterton Canada, visitors can experience the beauty of two stunning national parks in one trip. From scenic drives and challenging hikes to wildlife viewing and historic accommodations, this international peace park offers a wealth of natural wonders and outdoor adventures.
References:
1. https://glacier.nationalparkschat.com/viewtopic.php?t=3683
2. https://www.nps.gov/glac/learn/news/gnp-announces-2023-visitation-data.htm
3. https://www.statista.com/statistics/501627/visitors-to-waterton-lakes-national-park/