Bertha Lake Trailhead: 10.4 mi, 2,450 ft gain (Waterton)

Q: Is a permit required?

Parks Canada entrance fee is required to enter Waterton Lakes National Park; pay on entry.

Q: Is a shuttle required?

No. The trailhead is within walking distance of Waterton townsite.

Q: Is there water available along the trail?

Yes. You can filter from the outlet stream near the backcountry campground and from Bertha Lake.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families?

Lower Bertha Falls is approachable for families, but the ascent to Bertha Lake gets steeper; proceed with caution.

Q: What gear is essential for winter or shoulder seasons?

Micro-spikes or snowshoes may be needed; waterproof footwear and trekking poles help on slick, icy sections.

Q: What wildlife should I expect?

Deer, marmots, pikas; bear awareness is crucial; make noise and store food properly.

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Overview

About This Trail

A demanding 10.4-mile out-and-back hike from Waterton to Bertha Lake. Expect 2,450 ft of elevation gain and 5–7 hours for fit hikers, with rocky upper sections and limited shade.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Hike If / Skip If

Best for hikers with solid endurance and experience with long days on exposed, uneven terrain. Not ideal for beginners; trekking poles and sturdy ankle-support boots are strongly recommended.

Trail Highlights

Bertha Lake with turquoise water and red argillite rocks; waterfalls along the route; Bertha Point lookout over Upper Waterton Lake

The Sweat Reality

Officially rated moderate, but Bertha Lake Trail is demanding: 10.4 miles round-trip with about 2,450 feet of elevation gain. Expect 5–7 hours for fit hikers; the surface shifts from packed dirt to loose rock and scree in the upper half.

The Arrival Protocol

No official shuttle service. With limited parking, carpool and arrive early; if the lot is full, be prepared for a wait or to adjust plans.

The Payoff

Photo spots include Bertha Lake with distant mountain views, the rocky upper slopes, and viewpoints along Cameron Lake Road. Bring a wide-angle lens for the lake and a telephoto for distant peaks.

Insider Tips

• Consider hiking the loop around Bertha Lake for different perspectives. • Start early to beat crowds or hike later in the day. • Bear spray and loudness; stay on trail. • Trekking poles help on slippery/icy sections. • Pack water and snacks for the lake edge and Bertha Point.

Best Season to Hike

April–October; peak conditions July–September

Hiking Tips

Carry water: at least 2 liters.
Wear sturdy footwear and trekking poles for slick or icy sections.
Bear spray and loud noise on approach.
Filter water from the outlet stream or Bertha Lake.
Start early; stay focused through switchbacks and rocky sections.

Family Info

Lower Bertha Falls is easier and suitable for families; the ascent to Bertha Lake is steeper

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 6.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 2,034 ft

Duration: 4–5 hours to Bertha Lake; 5–6 hours if looping Bertha Lake

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Primarily packed dirt with loose scree and rocky sections; 21 switchbacks

Getting There

Trailhead: Waterton townsite, off Evergreen Avenue, south of Cameron Falls, adjacent to the townsite campground

Parking: Limited parking capacity; the lot fills very early, especially on weekends and during peak season. Plan to arrive before 7:30–8:00 AM to secure a space.

Fills Up: Full by weekend mornings; arrive early

Requirements

Permit Required

Parks Canada entrance fee required to enter Waterton Lakes National Park; day-use and annual passes available in person

Fees: Varies

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required; trailhead within walking distance of Waterton townsite

Trail Rules

Dogs: false

Biking: false

Trail Markers: Marked trail with standard signage; stay on route

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Outlet stream near backcountry campground; Bertha Lake; filter or treat water

Shade: Mixed; canopy in sections; sun exposure on ascent

Cell Service: Limited or unreliable; not guaranteed

Hazards:

Carry bear spray and stay bear-aware; avalanche danger near Bertha Peak; post-wildfire areas may have uneven ground and reduced cover; expect sun on ascent; use trekking poles on loose scree

Emergency: Parks Canada rangers; Waterton townsite emergency services

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High

Peak Times: Weekends and peak season; start early or late to avoid crowds

Accessibility & Family

Family Notes:

Lower Bertha Falls is easier and suitable for families; the ascent to Bertha Lake is steeper

Nearby Facilities

Waterton townsite amenities; Bertha Lake backcountry campground vault toilets

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 95 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

This is a great trail, not very steep and easy to hike. I did it along. Beautiful views you can see during walking and waterfalls at the end like a cherry on top of the cake! So peaceful and relaxing! Just take a bear spray with you. I didn’t see any this time but I know there are lots of them in that area.

We really enjoyed this hike as a family. My 8-year-old had a bit of a challenge because there was no shade along the route and it was very hot. We started around 11 AM, and the whole way had no tree cover—likely due to a recent wildfire, as most of the trees were burnt. The trail was steep on the way up, so be prepared for the elevation gain.That said, the reward at the end was worth it—the waterfall was absolutely beautiful, and my son didn’t want to leave! I highly recommend wearing good hiking shoes and starting early in the morning to avoid the heat and potential sunburn.

A beautiful day hike, moderate difficulty with many sites along the way - from viewpoints to waterfalls. I enjoyed lounging by Bertha Lake for the afternoon, swimming and relaxing before completing the loop around the lake.

Showing 3 of 95 reviews

FAQs

Are bears common on Bertha Trail?

Yes. Carry bear spray and stay loud; make your presence known on the trail.

Is a permit required?

Is a shuttle required?

Is there water available along the trail?

Is the trail suitable for families?

What gear is essential for winter or shoulder seasons?

What wildlife should I expect?

📖 Current time information in Flathead County, US. ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Bertha Trailhead