Red Rock Canyon

+2 more

Distance

0.4 mi

Elevation Gain

245 ft

Est. Time

30 minutes for the loop; 15–20 minutes brisk. With Blakiston Falls, 1–1.5 hours.

Route Type

Loop

Best Season

Late May to early October; Summer peak wildflowers.

Overview

About This Trail

Elevation gain: 246 ft. Easy loop with a gentle grade and bright meadows along the gorge. High reward for the effort—hydrate, pace yourself, and stay ready for changing conditions.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Trail Highlights

Colorful rock formations, water-play canyon floor, Blakiston Falls, and easy access from Waterton.

Insider Tips

• Arrive before 8 am to secure parking and beat crowds and potential afternoon weather changes. • Water shoes and swimsuits are useful if you plan to wade or swim in warm weather. • For families, start with the paved loop; older kids can explore the canyon floor for extra excitement. • Keep bear awareness high; store food properly and make your presence known with noise.

Best Season to Hike

Late May to early October; Summer peak wildflowers.

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L water minimum.
Sturdy footwear; canyon bed can be uneven.
Arrive before 7–8 am to beat crowds; weekdays are better.
Sunscreen, hat, and bear spray; stay loud in bear country.

Family Info

Very suitable for families due to the accessible paved loop; canyon-floor exploration offers more adventure for older children.

What Hikers Say

Hikers describe it as an easy, well-maintained option with a solid payoff: red-green rock formations, clear water, and Blakiston Falls. The loop is busy on weekends; plan to start early and expect company, but it remains accessible and family-friendly.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 245 ft

Duration: 30 minutes for the loop; 15–20 minutes brisk. With Blakiston Falls, 1–1.5 hours.

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Primarily paved with some natural bedrock; canyon floor involves scrambling over rocks and wading through water.

Getting There

Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon Day Use Area at end of Red Rock Parkway; about 15 km (9.3 miles) from Waterton townsite.

Parking: Large paved parking lot with overflow nearby.

Fills Up: Full by sunrise; best before 7:00 AM.

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily entry fee; passes can be purchased online in advance or at park gates.

Fees: $11 per adult as of September 2024.

Shuttle Available

Parks Canada free shuttle with Tamarack Outdoor Outfitters; connects downtown Waterton and Crandell Mountain Campground to Red Rock Canyon.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Red Rock Creek; filtering recommended if drinking.

Shade: Full sun exposure with very little shade.

Cell Service: Limited

Hazards:

Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Canyon floor involves scrambling and water hazards; wind can kick up debris.

Emergency: Waterton Park Dispatch or Parks Canada; dial 9-1-1 for emergencies.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very busy, especially on weekends and during peak summer.

Peak Times: Weekends and peak summer.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Paved loop; stroller and wheelchair friendly.

Family Notes:

Very suitable for families due to the accessible paved loop; canyon-floor exploration offers more adventure for older children.

Nearby Facilities

Red Rock Canyon Day Use Area restrooms; large parking; free shuttle from Waterton town.

What Hikers Say

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.7 /5

Based on 1475 Google reviews

Based on 1475 guest reviews

" Hikers describe it as an easy, well-maintained option with a solid payoff: red-green rock formations, clear water, and Blakiston Falls. The loop is busy on weekends; plan to start early and expect company, but it remains accessible and family-friendly."

Reviews from Google

A beautiful spot within Waterton Lakes National Park. The rocks are a beautiful red color and the water is crystal clear. There are paths that lead you through the mountains and there are also several waterfalls nearby. The paths range from a short walk to an intense hike so make sure to pay attention to the path markers.

“Beautiful, Serene, and Scenic, but Crowded at Times” Red Rock Canyon in Waterton Lakes National Park is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates stunning landscapes.The vibrant red rock formations set against the lush greenery and clear blue water create a picture-perfect scene. The short walk around the canyon is easy and suitable for all ages, making it a great option for families or those looking for a relaxing stroll.You can also dip your feet into the cool water, which is refreshing after exploring the park.One of the best parts about Red Rock Canyon is how accessible it is. It’s just a short drive from Waterton townsite, and the road leading there offers some great views as well.The canyon itself is not very large, but it packs a lot of beauty into a small area. It’s a perfect spot to take a break, have a picnic, or just admire the natural scenery.However, the reason I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5 is that it can get quite crowded, especially during peak season. This can make it difficult to find a peaceful moment or get a good photo without other people in the background. The parking area also fills up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early or visit later in the day.Overall, Red Rock Canyon is a gem within Waterton, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Just plan your visit wisely to avoid the crowds, and you’ll have a fantastic experience!”

Beautiful little canyon, amazing colors astounding location and views. Would recommend walking to the furthest point on the trail where it loops back for best view. The canyon is much deeper there so you can see more beautiful rocks but also there is a lot less people that want to walk up that hill! Very busy parking lot so be prepared you may have to park down the road at the further lot. Its a very busy location due to its accessibility. If you have walking assistance devices, strollers or wheel chairs you can definitely explore a lot of the views with its paved pathway.

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