Waterton areas open during winter

The winter months can offer a time to experience what the wilderness has to offer, especially within Waterton Lakes National Park.

When visiting the park this winter, the public is reminded the Kenow Wildfire of 2017 has affected the park and some areas are still closed due to damage and unsafe areas.

The Red Rock Parkway from Coppermine Creek to Red Rock Canyon, Bear’s Hump Trail, Crandell Mountain Campground, and recreational opportunities associated with these areas remain closed. The Akamina Pass Trail is only open to the pubic until you reach the B.C. border. The McNeely’s and Little Prairie day use areas, Tamarack Trail and Cathew-Alderson Trail will remain closed as well due to wildfire damage.

The Akamina Parkway is open to Cameron Lake, as well as Red Rock Parkway for nonmotorized use this winter. Trails accessible from the Parkway include Lineham, Rowe, Cameron Lakeshore, Akamina Pass (only to the B.C. border) and Summit Lake. There are approximately 35 kilometres of reopened trails in addition to areas reopened earlier this year.

Parks Canada is assessing and developing a rehabilitation strategy for these areas before they can reopen. To ensure everyone’s safety, Parks Canada asks people visiting the park to respect all area closures.

Backcountry travelling always comes with inherent risks and the areas affected by the Kenow Wildfire may have increased hazards. Backcountry travellers are responsible for their own decisions and safety and will need to plan accordingly. Parks Canada recommends backcountry visitors to consider the Akamina and Red Rock Parkways as backcountry terrain.

Parks Canada will be issuing avalanche bulletins for Waterton twice a week throughout the winter. Almost any moderately steep slope is at risk of an avalanche under certain conditions and even small avalanches can be deadly. Visitors travelling in avalanche terrain need essential training and equipment, along with knowing how to use it. They also need the skills to recognize avalanche terrain and unstable conditions, and to conduct companion rescue.

Parks Canada reminds visitors to be prepared for variable conditions when driving to, from or around the park this winter. For more information regarding park hours and accessibility, as well as information regarding fire damage or avalanche awareness, visit

pc.gc.ca.

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