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I almost didn’t want to write another review on Waterton’s most popular trail after all there are so many, but I have to say that this place is just too beautiful not to share. Looking back at the photos, I can’t believe how picture-perfect it all was. Waterton feels like a completely different world. Despite its size, it’s an intimate place that just begs to be explored. I can’t imagine why anyone would hesitate to visit this charming little town. Plus, a good road trip makes every mile count. So, the best way to see it is to hop in a car and drive and drive.

Nestled on British Columbia and Montana borders lies Waterton, the smallest mountain town in Crowsnest Pass. The mountains in Waterton National Park appear to be a little bigger; however, the lakes are a little bluer, and the sky is a little brighter. There are some places like Waterton that you have to experience for yourself. And as soon as you do, you know – somehow, someday, you’ll be back.

Wind and Waterton Is One

When Kirsten and I arrived in Waterton it was cloudy but not windy. The truth is it’s nearly always windy in Waterton. The park lies in a concentrated storm track and its weather is always variable and so quick to change. The wind usually sounds like a roar and a low moan but strangely, the wind gusts were gone, and the clouds were slowly churning around the mountain peaks.

Carthew Alderson Through Hike Logistics

Many people choose to take a shuttle to Cameron Lake and the trailhead before hiking back to Waterton Park townsite. The trail is quite long and challenging, especially in the beginning, but the stunning scenery makes it all worthwhile.

Cameron Lake to Summit Lake

The trail starts at the beautiful Cameron Lake with a view of Mount Custer and Forum Peak. It will take you through the forest as it switchbacks gradually for about 4k before reaching Summit Lake. From there you will ascend toward Carthew Summit.

Summit Lake to Carthew Summit Overlook

The scenery changes dramatically as you climb higher, from greenery to wildflowers and finally to pink scree slopes. The option to hike up to the Carthew Summit Overlook is a must-try, given the breathtaking views of Glacier National Park in Montana. What better way to end this adventure than with a delicious charcuterie board?

Carthew Lakes to Alderson Lake

The beauty of the turquoise-blue waters and the picturesque scenery of the surrounding talus slopes and alpine meadows are stunning. It’s amazing how the terrain changes as you descend, going from rocky and bush-covered to fir forest. And to be greeted by the deep blue waters of Alderson Lake, while being surrounded by the walls of Mt Alderson, is one unforgettable experience that’s worth every step!

Alderson Lake to Waterton

The journey from Alderson Lake takes you through a thick fir forest, with Carthew Creek flowing at the bottom of a steep hillside to the left of the trail. As you continue down the trail, you’ll gradually descend into Waterton Townsite for the last few kilometres, passing through burned areas on the north slopes of Bertha Peak. It’s amazing how the terrain changes so quickly.

Who Says Hiking Has to Be Hard

I mean, it’s just walking, right? Through gorgeous mountain scenery, meadows, wildflowers, turquoise lakes, fir forests and rock. Walking is hard. You will suffer. It is physically demanding, and your feet will hate you. But the destination is nothing short of spectacular and once you set your foot on this trail there won’t be much to do except enjoy the journey, 20 km and almost 7 hours of moving time to be exact.

Distance: 19.81km
Elevation: 931 m
Moving time: 6:43:30

What to Pack for Carthew Alderson

John Muir would famously stuff a handful of peanuts and raisins in his pockets and disappear for days. While I do not recommend this approach you may want to be better prepared for a 20km trek:

  • Daypack plus rain cover
  • Water (2 L bladder) plus electrolytes
  • Charcuterie board clearly and other snacks
  • Layers/Rain/Wind Jacket
  • Hiking Boots
  • Socks (good wool socks make a difference)
  • Trekking Poles NOT ski poles
  • First Aid
  • Celebratory Shots, ALWAYS!!

LNT


Before you go, make sure you’ve thoroughly researched trail conditions and practice Leave No Trail principles.

Related

If you like Waterton, you will also enjoy reading about Crypt Lake.

Bear’s Hump

I had been to Waterton before but never done the Bear’s Hump trail. As with every popular trail, it is grossly overrated, busy, and sometimes not worth going. But not this time. This time it was perfect. The trail offers sweeping views of Waterton Lakes and the townsite. This rugged little trail makes a surprisingly steep climb to a rocky plateau with clear views in nearly every direction. The Piikani Nation has always given the name Grizzly Medicine Mountain or Great Bear Mountain to this stunning mountain. According to many First Nation beliefs, the grizzly bear is a mighty spirit animal that often shares its knowledge of medicinal plants with humans. But we didn’t see any and Kirstin’s spirit animal is a happy chipmunk.

Red Rock Canyon Reflections

A quick little stop is all you will need to navigate your way around through puddles that submerge the canyon’s parts. Yes, my feet were wet beyond recognition.

Happy Trails!