Crypt Lake Trail
A challenging trail that requires a ferry ride to reach the start. It passes waterfalls, iron ladders, a cave and cliffside chains, and ends at a glacial lake on the border.
The trail is about 8.7 km one way with about 700 meters of ascent, and it is often rated one of Canada's best hikes. Take the early-morning ferry from the town dock to Crypt Landing. Along the way you pass several waterfalls. You then climb iron ladders, crawl through a natural rock tunnel about 20 meters long, and hold onto chains along a narrow cliff path to reach the emerald-green Crypt Lake. You must catch the afternoon return ferry. The full trip takes 6–8 hours. Those with a fear of heights should be careful, and bear spray is essential.
Opening hours
Ferry season approx. June–September; round trips per ferry schedule
Nearby sights
- Upper Waterton Lake Cruise to Goat Haunt
- Prince of Wales Hotel
- Linnet Lake
- Waterton Townsite
- Cameron Falls
- Bear's Hump Trail
- Bertha Lake Trail
- Waterton Lakes National Park