This stunning Alberta destination is one of the best for a quiet getaway
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway in Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park is a stunning option. You can take in gorgeous views, explore scenic trails, and enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rockies all in one spot.
Located about three hours south of Calgary, the park’s history dates back to the 1800s, when European explorers began visiting the area.
According to Waterton Tourism, Thomas Blakiston came across three large lakes in the area and named them “Waterton” as a tribute to Sir Charles Waterton, a well-known naturalist.
The area was officially protected in 1895, when about 140 square kilometres were designated as a Dominion Forest Park, which later turned into Waterton Lakes National Park.
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Waterton Lakes National Park was the fourth national park in Canada. It borders Montana’s Glacier National Park, and the two were joined in 1932 to create the first international peace park in the world, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Today, the national park is known for its stunning scenery, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors. From hiking and wildlife watching to kayaking and scenic drives, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy it.
One of the most popular draws to the park is the Prince of Wales Hotel, which opened in 1927 and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1992. While the hotel is nearly a century old, visitors can still enjoy high tea, charming rooms, and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
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The Prince of Wales Hotel isn’t the only historical attraction in the park. Waterton Shoreline Cruise Co. offers guests a chance to take a ride on the oldest passenger ship still operating in Canada, the M.V. International and take a two-hour scenic cruise. It also serves as a shuttle to more hikes in the area.
Another popular spot located within the national park is the Waterton Park Townsite. It’s a small community surrounded by mountains and located along the shores of Upper Waterton Lake.
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You can find a variety of shops, restaurants, accommodations and other amenities throughout the townsite. It was even named among the top-rated small towns in the Rockies.
While you can visit the park all year round, some businesses located in the townsite close up for the winter, with some starting to close around October, making fall and early winter a particularly quiet time to visit.
Have you ever been to Waterton Lakes National Park? Let us know in the comments below.