Waterton Road Trip (Crypt Lake, Red Rock Canyon)

🏞️ Trip Overview

Join us for a scenic and exhilarating weekend exploring Waterton Lakes National Park! Our adventure includes:

Day 1 – Friday, July 25

• Drive from Calgary; everyone arranges their own transport and overnight lodging nearby. Josh is camping at Oldman Dam Provincial Recreation Area. Arrive any time that evening. 

https://shop.albertaparks.ca/camping/oldman-dam-provincial-recreation-area/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=ABPP&parkId=330307#sr_a

Day 2 — Saturday July 26

** May swap for the following day if we miss ferry boarding **

• Wake up at 5:30am, depart at 6:15am.

• 6:15am Drive 1 hour to Waterton from camp/Pincher Creek.

• 7:15am Wait in the ferry tickets line. About $34 per person with Shoreline Cruises round trip. 

• 8:30am Ferry

• 8:45am: Crypt Lake Trail (17–20 km round-trip, ~700–900 m elevation gain): Traverse forests, valley switchbacks and five stunning waterfalls (Hell Roaring, Twin, Burnt Rock, Crypt Falls).  Navigate thrilling sections: cable handholds, narrow ledges clinging to cliffs, a steel ladder, and a 90-foot natural tunnel. Destination: alpine Crypt Lake — turquoise waters, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, perfect for a chilly dip. Optional extension: visit Hell Roaring Canyon on the way down if time and energy allow.  

• 3:30pm: Return to Waterton by boat.

• Free time & dinner

• 7:30pm: Return to Camp

• 8:30pm: Communal fire pit. If there’s a fire ban we have a communal propane pit to use.

Day 3 — Sunday July 27

• 8-10am: Communal breakfast at camp & checkout 

• Drive 1 hour to Red Rock Canyon. Expect no cell service. 

• 11am: Explore Canyon 0.7km easy but you’ll get wet. Wear water shoes. (Optional Blakiston Falls side hike (2 km round-trip) to scenic viewpoints) 

• 1pm: Drive to Lundbreck Falls, the Monolith, Nanton Candy Store & drive home to Calgary. Back in Calgary for 5/6pm

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🎒 What to Pack

• Footwear: Trail runners/hiking boots for Crypt; water shoes/Crocs for Red Rock creek.

• Backpack Essentials:

• 2× water bottles or hydration system (filter/tabs if refilling)

• Lunch & snacks (energy bars, trail mix, jerky, fruit)

• Warm layers + waterproof jacket & pants

• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent (tick protection)

• Bear spray, easily accessible, and signed group travel/noise

• Optional: trekking poles, bathing suit & quick-dry towel for lake dip

• First-aid kit, blister care, toilet paper (outhouse only at trail start)

• Map or downloaded trail info; fully charged phone (but no reception on trail)

• Emergency beacon or SOS device recommended     

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⚠️ Safety & Timing

• Start early: take the morning ferry to ensure enough time—bottlenecks can occur at the tunnel and ledges. The ferry leaves at 8:30 AM but you have to be in the ticket line at least a minimum of one hour early. 

• Turnaround time: ensure you’re descending in time for the return boat (~3:30 PM).

• Weather: afternoon thunderstorms common; bring rain gear and check park website.

• Wildlife: hikes cross bear habitat—hike alertly, make noise, and know the protocol.

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✅ Summary & Registration

• Transportation & lodging: Your responsibility. Consider camping at OldMan Dam with us, or nearby Pincher Creek for a cheap hotel. 

• Ferry tickets: Book early on-site at Shoreline Cruise (opens ~8 AM but be in line no later than 7:30am)

• Cost: Ferry ~$34. Park entry and any personal gear not included.

• Fitness level: Moderate to high—Crypt Lake is strenuous with technical spots; Red Rock is easy.

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Get ready for a weekend of epic landscapes, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Space is limited—secure your spot now by messaging Josh! There is NO CHARGE for this event you just have to cover your own costs like transportation and hotel. We have a group chat going if you want to share.