Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]
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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, this article contains 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
In January, Waterton Lakes National Park is very cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Waterton Lakes National Park, with a few of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Heavy sweaters
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Extreme cold weather gloves
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteLip balm
The best choice: this
Fleece inner layer
Pajamas
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, 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
A wind resistant umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a perfect option.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
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.
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 airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
February
In February, Waterton Lakes National Park can be extremely cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Waterton Lakes National Park, with a few of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Heavy sweaters
Fleece inner layer
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Thermal undergarments
We like:
Pajamas
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteInsulated ice boots
We use:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Lip balm
The best option: here
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Waterton Lakes National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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.
Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
March
March in Waterton Lakes National Park is pretty cool and somewhat snowy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
thisHeavy socks
Such as:
Sweaters
Gloves
Lip balm
Our pick is: here
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Waterton Lakes National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect choice.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, 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.
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.
Canada has some specific safety 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 support pillow
A great choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
April
April here is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, 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
A windproof umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. 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 superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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.
Canada has some specific safety 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
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
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 is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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.
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.
Canada has some specific safety 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
June
In June, Waterton Lakes National Park is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (high 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Waterton Lakes National Park, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly 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.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
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 pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
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
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
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 disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Canada has some specific safety 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
August
August in Waterton Lakes National Park is warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Canada has some specific safety 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
A versatile choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
September
September in Waterton Lakes National Park is chilly and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great 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.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
October
Traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park in October, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is worth investing in for this weather. This one is a great option.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Canada has some specific safety 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
November
In November, Waterton Lakes National Park is brisk and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Waterton Lakes National Park, with a few of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
Our pick: here
Sweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Gloves
Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Waterton Lakes National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a great choice.
Health
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 an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
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 neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
December
In December, Waterton Lakes National Park is frosty and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Waterton Lakes National Park, with a few of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteFleece inner layer
Extreme cold weather gloves
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Lip balm
The best is: this one
Heavy sweaters
Pajamas
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Waterton Lakes National Park, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is important here. This one is a great choice.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Canada has some specific safety 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
A top rated pillow is this one
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. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Cameron Lake, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:
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.
Binoculars
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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