Set out on a captivating Winter Tour of Waterton National Park from Calgary, where breathtaking landscapes and wildlife await. This 11-hour adventure includes visits to the Bison Paddock for a chance to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, the frozen Cameron Falls, and the stunning Red Rock Canyon. Enjoy a leisurely 1.5-hour lunch in the charming Waterton townsite or indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. With scenic drives, hiking opportunities, and expert guidance, this tour promises to immerse you in nature’s winter wonderland. What secrets and surprises might this enchanting landscape hold?
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Waterton Park.
Key Points
- This 11-hour tour from Calgary takes visitors to explore the winter beauty of Waterton National Park, including wildlife viewing, scenic photo stops, and guided hikes.
- The tour includes a visit to the Bison Paddock, where guests can observe a herd of approximately 30-40 bison in their natural habitat.
- Participants will have the opportunity to take photos of the partially frozen Cameron Falls and explore the charming Waterton townsite, with options for lunch or afternoon tea.
- The tour features a hike to the Bears Hump, offering panoramic views of the snow-covered landscapes, and a visit to the striking geological formations of Red Rock Canyon.
- The tour package includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and necessary winter gear, while meals and personal expenses are the responsibility of the participants.
Tour Overview
For this Waterton National Park Adventure, the tour begins at the Delta Hotels by Marriott in downtown Calgary.
Priced at CAD 2,979 per person, the 11-hour tour is offered in Chinese, English, French, and Spanish.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can enjoy a scenic drive through snow-covered forests, wildlife viewing of bison, and photo stops at Cameron Falls and Red Rock Canyon.
The itinerary includes a leisurely lunch in Waterton townsite or afternoon tea at Prince of Wales Hotel, as well as a 1.5-hour hike to the Bears Hump for panoramic winter views.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Waterton Park.
Itinerary Highlights
Visiting the Bison Paddock allows guests to observe the majestic creatures in their natural habitat, with the tour guide leading the 15-minute wildlife viewing experience.
Next, the group stops at Cameron Falls for a photo opportunity and sightseeing, taking in the frozen beauty of the cascading waterfall.
After, they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch and free time in Waterton Park townsite or an afternoon tea at the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel.
The hike up Bears Hump offers panoramic winter vistas, while the visit to Red Rock Canyon showcases the unique contrast of its red cliffs against the snow.
Bison Paddock
Nestled within Waterton National Park, the Bison Paddock offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the majestic bison in their natural habitat. During the tour, guests will spend approximately 15 minutes viewing the bison from the comfort of their vehicle. This close encounter allows for exceptional photography and a deeper appreciation of these iconic Canadian animals.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Secluded area within Waterton National Park |
| Herd Size | Approximately 30-40 bison |
| Viewing Experience | Guided tour with commentary from the driver |
| Photography Opportunities | Excellent for capturing the bison in their winter setting |
The Bison Paddock provides a captivating introduction to the wonders of Waterton National Park, setting the stage for the adventures that lie ahead.
Cameron Falls
Visitors to Waterton National Park are treated to a stunning natural wonder at the Cameron Falls. The falls are a picturesque focal point, featuring a frozen, cascading waterfall that glistens in the winter sun.
Photographers can’t resist capturing the scene, as the falls contrast beautifully against the snow-covered landscape.
Some key facts about Cameron Falls:
- The falls are approximately 18 meters (60 feet) high.
- They’re fed by Cameron Creek, which originates from the nearby Akamina Ridge.
- The falls remain partially frozen throughout the winter, creating a magical, icy display.
- Visitors can enjoy a brief photo stop and sightseeing experience at the falls during the tour.
Waterton Park
After admiring the frozen beauty of Cameron Falls, the tour moves on to the heart of Waterton National Park.
Travelers enjoy a leisurely 1.5-hour lunch break in the quaint Waterton townsite. They’re free to explore the charming shops and restaurants, or opt for an afternoon tea experience at the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel.
With its unique blend of Canadian Rocky Mountain scenery and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, Waterton Park offers a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Visitors soak in the peaceful ambiance, capturing photos of the scenic lakefront and snow-dusted peaks before heading to the next destination on the itinerary.
Bears Hump
The Bears Hump hike beckons adventurous travelers, promising panoramic vistas from its lofty summit. The 2.5-kilometer round-trip trail ascends 253 meters, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of Waterton’s snow-kissed peaks and valleys.
The journey includes:
- Gradual, steady incline through dense forest.
- A final, steep push to the summit.
- Expansive panoramas of Waterton’s frozen landscapes.
- Opportunities to spot wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and elk, amidst the winter wonderland.
Donning crampons and wielding hiking poles, participants can conquer the Bears Hump, soaking in Waterton’s serene winter splendor from its picturesque overlook.
Red Rock Canyon
The unique Red Rock Canyon enthralls visitors with its striking contrast against the snow-covered landscape. Tucked away in the heart of Waterton National Park, this natural wonder features towering red cliffs that stand in bold relief against the pristine white surroundings.
The tour allows guests a 20-minute photo stop and visit to this geological marvel. Capturing the juxtaposition of the vibrant red rock and the serene winter scenery makes for truly remarkable photographs.
Exploring the canyon’s trails and taking in the breathtaking vistas is a highlight of the Waterton adventure, offering a unique perspective on the park’s diverse landscapes during the colder months.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation, pickup and drop-off services, the Goods and Services Tax (GST), a knowledgeable tour guide, and essential winter gear like crampons and hiking poles, as well as hot drinks to keep participants warm throughout the day.
However, the tour doesn’t include:
- All meals
- Personal expenses, activities, and travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide, which are recommended at CAD 15 per person
- Anything not explicitly mentioned as included.
Participants are responsible for their own food, drinks, and other personal expenses during the tour. Gratuities for the guide are also not included in the tour price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum age requirement. Travelers of all ages are welcome to participate in the adventure, as long as they are able to meet the physical demands of the excursion.
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available During the Tour?
The tour does not provide any meals, so vegetarian/vegan options are not included. Participants can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the free time in Waterton Park or at the other stops along the itinerary.
How Much Free Time Is Provided During the Waterton Park Visit?
The tour provides 1.5 hours of free time in Waterton Park, allowing visitors to explore the town, have lunch, or take afternoon tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel at their own pace.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Special Requests?
The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests, such as a private tour or modifications to the itinerary. Travelers should contact the tour operator to discuss their specific needs and see if the tour can be tailored to their requirements.
What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the Hiking Portion?
For the hiking portion, the tour provides crampons and hiking poles to ensure participants’ safety on the icy trails. The guide also leads the hike and monitors the group to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Recap
Set out on a captivating Winter Tour of Waterton National Park from Calgary for an unforgettable adventure. Witness the park’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, including the Bison Paddock, frozen Cameron Falls, and the stunning Red Rock Canyon. With scenic drives, hiking opportunities, and expert guidance, this tour promises to create lasting memories in nature’s splendor.
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