WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 400

PLANNING YOUR TIME
Chances are, if you're planning on visiting Waterton Lakes, you're not the same type of
traveler who thinks a trip to Banff entails staying at Best Western and eating at McDon-
ald's—instead you're looking to experience the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies
without the crowds and commercialism.
The vast majority of visitors arrive in July and August. As with the other parks of the
Canadian Rockies, June and September are fine times to visit, but as crowds are smaller
here, avoiding high summer isn't as much of an issue. Many businesses, including accom-
modations, close between October and April, although basic services are still available.
Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will love winter in the park, but don't expect much else
in the way of recreation.
Simply because of the out-of-the-way location, you'll want to spend at least one day in
the park, but it's preferable to stay two or more. With two days and one night scheduled,
plan on joining the boat cruise to Goat Haunt on one day and spending the second day ex-
ploring the two main roads, including the Akamina Parkway to Cameron Lake. This still
allows time to walk some shorter trails. If you're an enthusiastic hiker, add a third day to
your itinerary and hike either the trail to Crypt Lake or head across the provincial border
on foot to Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park.