Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada? If you're planning to go to Waterton Lakes National Park, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Waterton Lakes National Park
- Important essentials for Waterton Lakes National Park
- Activities for Waterton Lakes National Park
- Waterton Lakes National Park in January: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in February: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in March: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in April: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in May: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in June: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in July: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in August: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in September: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in October: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in November: weather and what to pack
- Waterton Lakes National Park in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Based on the climate and weather in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Waterton Lakes National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada by month
January
January in Waterton Lakes National Park is freezing and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). It snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best is: this
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Fleece for under jacket
Sweaters
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.
Pajamas
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Waterton Lakes National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
February
If you are traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park in February, you will notice that it is frosty and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Lip balm
The best is: this one
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite-
Extreme cold weather gloves
Pajamas
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Sweaters
Fleece for under jacket
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is vital here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
March
March is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while and snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sweaters
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our choice:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Lip balm
Our choice: this
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Waterton Lakes National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
April
April in Waterton Lakes National Park is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Waterton Lakes National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
May
May in Waterton Lakes National Park can be chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to high 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
June
June in Waterton Lakes National Park is balmy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
July
July in Waterton Lakes National Park is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
August
If you vacation in Waterton Lakes National Park during August, you might see that it is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
September
In September, Waterton Lakes National Park is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and regularly jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Waterton Lakes National Park, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
October
October for Waterton Lakes National Park can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Waterton Lakes National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
November
November in Waterton Lakes National Park is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Gloves
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Sweaters
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is worth investing in for this weather.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
December
December in Waterton Lakes National Park is very cold and somewhat snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) to low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Sweaters
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteTravel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
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Pajamas
Extreme cold weather gloves
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is important here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Waterton Lakes National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
What to do in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada
Waterton Lakes National Park, located in southern Alberta, Canada, is a gem of a natural wonder. Known for its pristine wilderness and breathtaking scenery, it is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or adventure seeker. Formed in 1895, the park is the fourth-oldest national park in Canada, and it spans an area of 505 km2. Here are the top tourist attractions in this magical place:
1. Waterton Lake Cruise: One of the most popular activities for visitors to the park is taking a guided boat tour on Waterton Lake. The tours give visitors a unique view of the park's stunning scenery, including the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the vast prairies, and the refreshing glacial waters of the lake.
2. Red Rock Canyon: Another must-visit attraction in the park is the striking Red Rock Canyon. The vivid red rock formations are a result of iron oxide in the rocks which has been oxidized by air and water over thousands of years. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike through the canyon, admire the unique rock formations and the crystal-clear creek.
3. Prince of Wales Hotel: A visit to Waterton Lakes National Park is incomplete without visiting the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel. The hotel is a prime example of Swiss-chalet style architecture and is considered one of the most unique and beautiful hotels in Canada. Visitors can take a tour of the building and its surrounding gardens, which offer stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the lake.
4. Cameron Falls: One of the park's hidden gems, Cameron Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near the edge of the townsite. Visitors can access the falls via a short walking trail, and the roar of the water plunging into the pool below provides a mesmerizing experience.
5. Bears Hump: Bears Hump is a steep, short hike that leads visitors to a lookout that provides a panoramic view of Waterton Lake and the surrounding peaks. The trail is only 2.8 km long but can be challenging for some visitors. The effort is worth it as the view from the top is breathtaking.
6. Crypt Lake Hike: For more adventurous visitors, the Crypt Lake Hike is a must-do activity. It is an 18-kilometer round trip and includes a boat ride, a cable car ride and a challenging ascent that rewards hikers with a stunning view of Crypt Lake, Twin Falls and lush alpine meadows.
7. Akamina Parkway: The winding Akamina Parkway is a scenic drive through the park that offers visitors a chance to see an abundance of wildlife, stunning panoramas of the mountain peaks, and pristine lakes. The 15-kilometer drive is open from mid-June to mid-October and is a great way to explore the park.
In summary, Waterton Lakes National Park is a beautiful and unique destination that offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature, explore its trails and hidden gems, and take in the stunning vistas from every angle. So, if you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, pack your bags and head out to this magnificent park.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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