Glacier National Park

Waterton Townsite

moderate International Bragging RightsLakeshore SceneryAdventure Hikers
8.5 mi Distance
200 ft Elevation Gain
Varies Estimated Time
one_way Trail Type

What to Expect

This is one of the most unusual hikes in Glacier — it ends in another country. Starting from Goat Haunt Ranger Station at the southern tip of Upper Waterton Lake, you follow the lakeshore north through dense subalpine forest with the kind of mountain-framed water views that make you forget you're putting in real miles. The trail is well-maintained and mostly flat, with barely enough elevation change to qualify as a warm-up, but the distance makes it a genuine day commitment. The payoff is walking across the international border into Waterton Townsite, Alberta, where you can grab a meal in an actual Canadian town before figuring out your return. The whole experience feels more like a pilgrimage than a hike. Perfect for adventurous types who want bragging rights and a story that starts with 'So I walked to Canada.'
International Bragging RightsLakeshore SceneryAdventure HikersLong Day HikersPhotography

Safety Advisory

This is prime grizzly bear country on both sides of the border. Carry bear spray, make noise on blind corners, and know how to use your spray before you need it — not during.

Weather on Upper Waterton Lake can turn fast, with strong winds and cold rain rolling in even on sunny mornings. Pack a wind shell and extra layers regardless of the forecast.

Trail Details

Distance 8.5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain 200 ft
Difficulty moderate
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type one_way
Pets Not allowed
Season Year-round
Trailhead Waterton Townsite

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

You need a valid passport to cross into Canada at Waterton — no exceptions, no flexibility. This is a real international border crossing, so have your documents ready or you'll be doing a 17-mile round trip for nothing.

Trail Tip

Most hikers take the Waterton Shoreline Cruise boat one direction and hike the other. Book the boat in advance through Waterton Inter-Nation Shoreline Cruise Co., as seats fill up fast in peak season. Hiking south and boating north gives you the psychological win of finishing with a scenic cruise.

Trail Tip

The Goat Haunt area is only accessible by boat or trail — there's no road in. Time your start around the boat schedule from Waterton, and give yourself a buffer. Missing the last boat means an unplanned backcountry night.

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13 campgrounds, 745 trails, 3.2M annual visitors

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