Waterton National Park Full-Day Private Tour From Calgary

Calgary , Canada

Waterton National Park Full-Day Private Tour From Calgary

Active

9h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the natural beauty of Waterton Lakes National Park on this day tour, featuring iconic wildlife and stunning landscapes. Begin with a scenic drive through the Bison Paddock Loop Road to spot roaming bison and other wildlife. Stroll to the breathtaking Cameron Falls, then embark on the Bear’s Hump Trail for panoramic views of the charming town and lake. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Waterton Town and explore its quaint shops before heading to the vibrant Red Rock Canyon for stunning geological formations. Cap off your adventure with a picturesque sunset over the lake.

- Scenic tour of Waterton Lakes National Park highlights wildlife and nature
- Visit iconic spots like Bison Paddock, Cameron Falls, and Bear’s Hump
- Enjoy lunch in the charming Waterton Town and explore local shops
- Experience the vibrant Red Rock Canyon and a sunset lakeside view

Available options

Waterton Lakes National Park Private Adventure

Pickup included

What's included

Pickup and drop-off by AC Vehicle from Calgary

Bottled Water and Soft-Drinks

National Park Fee

Professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Full description
Start your day with a drive through the Bison Paddock Loop Road, a short scenic loop where a small herd of plains bison roam freely. This is one of the best places in the park to witness these iconic animals in a natural prairie setting, much like they would have lived centuries ago. The early morning light makes the rolling grasslands especially beautiful, and you may also spot deer, elk, or prairie birds along the way. It’s a peaceful introduction to the park that blends wildlife viewing with history and conservation.

From there, head into the Waterton townsite and make your way to Cameron Falls, one of the most easily accessible yet stunning natural attractions in the park. A short stroll brings you to the cascading waterfall, where crystal-clear water rushes over ancient rock formations. The falls are especially vibrant in the summer when the surrounding landscape is lush and green, creating a picturesque spot for photography and quiet reflection.

Next, lace up your hiking shoes and set out on the Bear’s Hump Trail. This short but moderately steep hike rewards you with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the entire park. From the summit, you’ll see the charming townsite of Waterton nestled against the deep blue lake, framed by towering mountains on every side. The climb takes less than an hour, but the sweeping views from the top make it one of the most memorable experiences of the day.

By midday, return to the heart of Waterton Town, a charming village that perfectly captures the park’s welcoming spirit. Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafés or bistros, and if you’d like a more elegant experience, indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel while admiring its commanding view over Upper Waterton Lake. After your meal, take time to wander the town’s quaint streets, browse through small shops, or simply relax by the lakeshore before heading to your next adventure.

In the late afternoon, drive out to the spectacular Red Rock Canyon, a natural wonder known for its vibrant red rock formations contrasted against alpine greenery and clear mountain streams. The short interpretive trail makes it easy to explore the canyon walls up close, while the surrounding area offers additional walking paths for those who want to spend more time immersed in this dramatic landscape. Its striking colors and unique geological features make Red Rock Canyon a must-visit stop and a favorite for photographers

What's not included

Meals

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Calgary

Calgary, known as the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends urban energy with stunning natural beauty. It's famous for its annual Calgary Stampede, a world-renowned rodeo and festival, and offers easy access to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies.

Top Attractions

Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is the greatest outdoor show on earth, featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, live music, and much more. It's a must-visit event held annually in July.

Cultural 10 days Free entry to the grounds, tickets required for some events

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Full day or overnight Free entry with a Parks Canada pass

Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It's a great place to learn about Calgary's history and enjoy a meal with a view.

Architecture 1-2 hours $19 CAD for adults, $10 CAD for children

Heritage Park Historical Village

Heritage Park is Canada's largest living history museum, showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can explore historic buildings, ride vintage trains, and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Historical 3-4 hours $29.95 CAD for adults, $17.95 CAD for children

Prince's Island Park

Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Calgary. It's a great place for picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts. The park is also home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival and other events.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beef Brisket

Slow-cooked, tender beef brisket is a Calgary staple, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Main Course Not vegetarian/vegan

Bison Burger

A delicious and lean alternative to beef, bison burgers are a popular choice in Calgary.

Main Course Not vegetarian/vegan

Butter Chicken

A beloved Indian dish, butter chicken is a creamy, spicy curry made with tender chicken pieces.

Main Course Not vegetarian/vegan, contains dairy

Caesar Cocktail

A Canadian classic, the Caesar cocktail is a spicy, savory drink made with vodka, Clamato juice, and various seasonings.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Rock climbing Mountain biking Spa treatments Picnicking in parks Yoga and meditation Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Calgary for warm weather and outdoor activities. It's also when the Calgary Stampede takes place, a major event not to be missed.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: French, Punjabi, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-7 (Mountain Time Zone)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Calgary is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Calgary International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Calgary Station

By bus

Calgary Transit Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The CTrain is efficient, frequent, and a popular way to get around Calgary. It's free to ride downtown.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Beltline Kensington Innisfail

Day trips

Banff National Park

130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight

Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.

Canmore

100 km (62 miles) • Half day or full day

Canmore is a charming mountain town located near Banff National Park, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning scenery.

Drumheller

135 km (84 miles) • Full day

Drumheller is a town in the Canadian Badlands, known for its unique geological features, dinosaur fossils, and the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum.

Festivals

Calgary Stampede • July Calgary Folk Music Festival • Early July Calgary International Film Festival • Mid-September

Pro tips

Visit during the Calgary Stampede for a unique and unforgettable experience, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Explore the city's extensive park system, including Prince's Island Park and the Bow River Pathway, for a taste of Calgary's natural beauty.
Take advantage of the city's excellent public transit system, including the CTrain and buses, to get around easily and affordably.
Try local specialties, such as beef brisket and bison burgers, and don't miss out on the city's thriving coffee and craft beer scenes.
Dress in layers, as the weather in Calgary can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall.