Peace Park Road Trip! : A 4-Day Outdoor Adventure in Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada and Glacier National Park, Montana
Go international and spend the week exploring both sides of the border of Waterton-Glacier International Peak Park! Two National Parks equal one amazing connection. This 4 day driving tour will give you adventure, history, and beautiful vistas at every turn. Let's dive into a cross-border adventure that traverses two of North America’s most beautiful National Parks.
Day 1: Arrival in Montana and Glacier National Park
Your journey begins by arriving in the beautiful Flathead Valley of Montana, by air or car. Stock up on road trip snacks and water. Then, hit the highway and head for Columbia Falls…the gateway to Glacier National Park. Check out the funky food scene this town has to offer- once you’re fed and watered, let’s head to Glacier!
Arrive in West Glacier and soak up the vintage National Park vibe. Continue across the bridge and officially enter the Park. Spend the afternoon at Lake McDonald and Apgar, a beautiful, calm lake that’s perfect for skipping rocks. Hang out there until the late afternoon, then head over the Going to the Sun Highway as the sun is low. This is a photographer's DREAM time, the golden hour, to take the most beautiful pictures. Arrive at your destination for the evening at St Mary’s Village.
Day 2: Canada bound! Across the line to Waterton Lakes National Park
After a restful night, wake up and hit the road as you’re headed to Canada! Cross the US/CAN border at the historic Chief Mountain Border crossing. Once you’re through the border, descend to Waterton Lakes National Park, the Canadian side of the International Peace Park. You’ll enter the Park amidst beautiful wetlands and prairie landscapes. The entrance road is a great lead up to arriving in the Village of Waterton. You drive past the historic Prince of Wales Hotel, a National Historic Site of Canada- a must see!
Arriving in town, settle into your chosen accommodation, leave your bags, and take a stroll around town! You’ve got 3 full days in Waterton and it’s an adventure-filled few days….take this time to soak in the quaint village surroundings.
Head over to Tamarack Outdoors to gear up for your next few days adventures. This is also where your guided kayak tour and guided hike start. Grab a drink at Switchback Micro-Cafe and take a walk down to Main Street. Check out the quaint and local shops before heading back to your room for a rest. In the evening, pick a restaurant from the many excellent options. Head back to your room for a good night sleep as tomorrow you are hiking!
Day 3: Hiking in Waterton
You’ve read this blog in advance of your trip and you’ve booked a guided hike with Tamarack Adventures! This family-run business has been around for more than 100 years and they are true locals to Waterton. Enjoy the day with your guide exploring beautiful mountain passes, majestic views and serene lakes in this special part of the Canadian Rockies. After an adventure-filled day, head back to your room and try a different restaurant tonight!
Day 4: Early morning Kayak Tour and heading out for British Columbia
Early this morning, take a guided kayak tour with Tamarack Adventures. Explore Waterton Lakes from a new viewpoint. Wildlife, birds and geology are yours to explore at a slower pace. Savour the quietness of lake life this morning. After your paddle, it’s time to pack up and check out of your accommodation. You’re headed West into British Columbia as you complete the final leg of your road trip!
Drive North to Pincher Creek and then head West on Highway 3 through the South Canadian Rockies. There is a lot of history in these parts and the Crowsnest Pass is the epi-center of some major historical Canadian events! Take a detour at Frank Slide Interpretive Centre to learn about Canada’s deadliest rock slide. History abounds in this area so go where your interests lie. For dinner, head to Fernie, British Columbia. This funky town offers amazing food and some cool local shopping.
Depending on how you spend this day, you could stay overnight in Fernie or make the last 2 hour drive South, across the US/CAN border back down to Whitefish, Montana. It’s up to you! As your adventure comes to an end, reflect on the memories created during your cross-border journey through Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park. If time allows, explore the quaint town of Whitefish or Kalispell before bidding farewell to this enchanting region.
A 4-day adventure through Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is a journey through a unique partnership of stunning natural landscapes and international history. Whether you're exploring the charming Waterton townsite, hiking to iconic destinations, or marveling at the glaciers in Glacier National Park, this cross-border itinerary invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Canadian and American Rockies. As you depart, carry with you the memories of breathtaking landscapes and the sense of wonder that only these two remarkable National Parks can offer.
Note to Reader: This is a Driving Itinerary- Cross Border Rental needed if you fly in/out of Kalispell, Montana. Passport required, as there is an International Border Crossing. Happy travels!