"Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta,... " a Waterton Lakes National Park Travel Page by minorzwarpath

The trailhead for the Crypt Lake trails is accessible by boat from the town of Waterton. Departures in the morning and returns are during the afternoon. The fare for passage is relatively cheap, and you might be able to arrange a cruise along the remainder of the lake after pickup.

The trail can be completed by most people, and is rated as the #1 day-hike in North America. The valley along the approach is a nice hike in itself, with periodic small falls along Crypt Creek.

I found the most impressive features to be the Crypt Tunnel - 100 m long- and view of Crypt Lake Falls at the tunnel's exit. The local literature recommends packing a flashlight in case light in the tunnel is blocked out by other hikers ahead.

The lake itself is quite small, but the steeply rising mountains on all sides lend to its special beauty. The lake drains through an underground creek, and out the previously mentioned falls.

On the return hike there is an optional side-hike from the main trail to view more white-water frothy falls. The trail here is particularly steep, and sturdy footwear is highly recommended.

Last hiked: August 2002

The Red Rock Canyon area of Waterton National Parks contains some great hiking. There is a main loop which is relatively flat and easy, albeit very long. The loop istelf is popular with mountain bikers, however it can be used to access side-hikes as well. There are also some falls to be viewed in an area adjacent to the canyon.

In May 2001 I hiked into Goat Lake. After branching off from the main hiking loop, the trail is very steep. Once you've gotten a rythm, the plodding gets easier. The trail crosses some scree slopes, and this early in the season there were quite a few areas still covered in snow. Good grips on your footwear are recommended, to avoid a long slide into the valley below.

The lake is small and tranquil, and you may find a few campers. I had planned to continue along the ridge behind the lake , back to the main trail loop, however the trail was quickly lost in the snow. Perhaps another time!