The Red Rock Canyon and Blakiston Falls trails are two of the most accessible and rewarding outings in Waterton Lakes National Park, offering a perfect combination of striking geology and classic mountain scenery. Starting from the same parking area at the end of the spectacular Red Rock Parkway, these easy walks showcase very different but equally memorable landscapes. The short Red Rock Canyon loop follows the vividly colored creek bed where iron-rich rock glows deep crimson, while the gentle path to Blakiston Falls leads you through open forest to a dramatic waterfall plunging into a rugged gorge. To help you discover this scenic corner of the Canadian Rockies, we put together this Red Rock Canyon and Blakiston Falls hiking guide. Both trails require minimal effort yet deliver outstanding views.
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You might also be interested in these Waterton Lakes National Park pages:
Best Hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park
Wildlife Watching in Waterton Lakes National Park
Best Things to Do in Waterton Lakes National Park – Complete Activities Guide
Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls Location and Map
Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls are located very close to one another in Waterton Lakes National Park, in the extreme southwestern corner of Alberta (link to Google Maps). Their proximity to one another makes them ideal candidates for a combined visit.
About Waterton Lakes National Park
Where Mountains Meet the Prairies: The park’s range lies between the Canadian Rockies and the Prairies, and is often referred to as the “park where mountains meet the prairies.” Waterton Lakes became Canada’s fourth national park in 1895, though its official status, park boundary and name have varied over the years.
Small in Size, Grand in Scenery: Although Waterton Lakes is currently the smallest of the National Parks located in the Canadian Rockies, it has about 200 km of hiking trails, making its backcountry the most developed of the Canadian mountain parks.
Dark Skies: Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park in the United States are now recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) as an International Dark Sky Park and together form the first transboundary IDA International Dark Sky Park.
International Peace Park: Waterton Lakes National Park shares a border with Glacier National Park in Montana, United States: together they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, designated as a World Heritage Site in 1995 for the parks’ distinctive climate, physiographic setting, and mountain-prairie interface. The Peace Park was first established in 1932 and was the first of its kind in the world. It was intended to promote goodwill between nations and highlight the international nature of protecting wilderness.
Diverse Park Flora: Waterton Lakes National Park is home to many rare plants, more so than any national park in the Canadian Rockies. More than half of Alberta’s plant species are found in Waterton, which is also the only Canadian national park that preserves foothills fescue grasslands. Several different ecological regions converge in Waterton, with prairie plants of the Great Plains, Rocky Mountain plants from northern areas, and coastal plants from the Pacific Northwest all overlapping.
Impressive Wildlife: Waterton Lakes National Park is home to more than 60 species of mammals, including elk, moose, mule deer, white-tailed deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, plain bison, lynx, bobcats, wolves, coyotes, cougars, black bears and grizzly bears.
How to Get to the Red Rock Canyon, Blackiston Falls & Waterton Lakes National Park
The trails to Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls both start from the large car park at the very end of the Red Rock Parkway (link to Google Maps). From the Waterton townsite, it’s about a 25-minute drive to reach the car park.
The Red Rock Parkway offers one of the most scenic drives in the park. The road winds for 15 km through sweeping mountain valleys and vibrant foothill meadows. Along the way, you’re treated to broad views of rugged peaks and excellent chances to spot wildlife such as deer and bighorn sheep (we also saw black bears along the road once). Honestly, the drive here is as much a highlight of the park as the hikes that start from it.
Note that there is no transportation service within the park to get to the trailhead, and there is no outside public transit option with service to Waterton Lakes National Park. There is, however, an airport charter service available from Calgary, though this is a rather expensive means of reaching the park, and obviously isn’t very useful for getting around the park afterwards.
If coming from outside the park, you can expect the following drive times from the nearest major cities:
From Lethbridge: 130 km (1h30 min drive)
From Calgary: 280 km (3h drive)
From Medicine Hat: 300 km (3h15 min drive)
From Banff: 360 km (3h45 drive)
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Alberta.
We also highly recommend Airalo (eSIM card) for your connectivity needs when travelling abroad. Airalo is the world’s first and largest eSIM store with eSIM plans for 200+ countries and regions worldwide.
Nearest Gas Station
The nearest gas station is in the town of Waterton (there’s only one) (link to Google Maps). Otherwise, the nearest gas stations are outside of the park, in Mountainview to the east (20 km away) and in Pincher Creek to the north (45 km away).
Roadside wildlife
It’s important to drive slowly throughout the park’s roads, as there is abundant wildlife around every corner. Deer are often seen throughout the Waterton townsite, and deer, elk and bears are often seen alongside many of the park’s roads.
Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls Trail Access, Fees, and Parking
Trailhead & car park location: As mentioned earlier, the trails to Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls both start from the large car park at the very end of the Red Rock Parkway (link to Google Maps).
Trail access and fees
Anyone visiting Waterton Lakes National Park, whether for a hike or simply to enjoy the scenery, must first pay the applicable Parks Canada entrance fee.
Daily Fee: $11 (adults; discount for seniors and free for children)
Annual Waterton Lakes Pass*: $54.50 (adults; discount for seniors and free for children)
Parks Canada Discovery Pass**: $75.25 (adults; discount for seniors)
The Parks Canada Discovery Pass is valid for 12 months after the date of purchase, which can be purchased online here (includes access to all Canadian National Parks)
As of 2025, the Waterton Day Use and Annual passes can only be purchased in person.
*If you plan on spending at least 5 days in Waterton Lakes National Park, you are better off purchasing the Annual Waterton Lakes Pass.
**If you plan on spending at least 7 days within a Canadian National Park during any 12-month period, you are better off purchasing the Parks Canada Discovery Pass. This is usually easily achieved during road trips through the Canadian Rockies.
For up-to-date fee information, consult the Waterton Lakes National Park fee page.
Trail opening Hours: 24 hours – but access is limited during winter.
The Red Rock Parkway, which provides vehicle access to this trail, is not plowed and closes for the winter. This seasonal closure typically runs from November 1 to April 30, though exact dates can vary from year to year. Although you can cross-country ski along the Red Rock Parkway in winter, it’s quite the trek to reach the Red Rock Canyon (18 km one-way, uphill), and, perhaps more importantly, you won’t really get to enjoy its uniqueness if it’s buried under snow.
Parking lot: The parking lot is both new (built in 2021) and quite large (one of the park’s largest), offering ample space for vehicles.
Facilities: There are vault toilets by the car park.
Red Rock Canyon Falls Trail Details and Map
Distance: 0.8 km
Route Type: Loop
Elevation change: 35 m (difference between trail high and low point)
Elevation gain: 60 m (cumulative elevation gain)
AllTrails rating: (4.4, 914 ratings (2025))
Duration: Most people complete the trail in less than 20 minutes*
*Here, part of the fun is to explore the canyon and not just to walk the trail around it, so people will typically linger here much longer.
Blackiston Falls Trail Details and Map
Distance: 2.4 km
Route Type: Out & back
Elevation change: 40 m (difference between trail high and low point)
Elevation gain: 77 m (cumulative elevation gain)
AllTrails rating: (4.5, 554 ratings (2025))
Duration: Most people complete the trail in 35-45 minutes
Not an AllTrails member yet? We highly recommend signing up for either their free or paid membership plans. The free plan allows you to find new trails and plan routes but it can only be used while hiking if you have access to mobile data. The paid membership plan (AllTrails+) allows you to download trail maps for offline use and provides live progress updates and off-route notifications.
If you are still uncertain – you should know that the All Trails mobile application was voted the 2023 iPhone App of the Year by Apple.
We find that AllTrails is a great tool to have when hiking, particularly for assisting with navigation when the trail is hard to locate and to help monitor your progress along the trail, which helps estimate how much time you’ll need to complete the trail.
Additional Trail Details
– Canine companions: Dogs are permitted on leashes.
– Doing both trails combined: a total trail length of 3.2 km, which takes the average person 45-60 minutes to complete, but add in extra time for exploring the canyon.
– Trail environment: Sub-alpine forest, but most of which was burned during the 2017 Kenow wildfire. There is, however, significant regrowth along the forest floor.
– Route Signage: Yes – but the trail is also very easy to follow.
– Trail Surface / Technical trail: Neither of the trails is technical, nor do they present any significant challenges. They follow mostly flat, well-established paths. However, expect to walk over uneven sections with occasional steep inclines when exploring the canyon.
– Trail difficulty level assessment (based on our personal assessment, taking into account the trail length, slope grade and trail surface) :
Very Easy | Easy | Moderate | Moderately Challenging | Challenging
Overall, both trails do not present any significant challenges.
Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls Trails – Description and Summary
Red Rock Canyon
The Red Rock Canyon area is one of Waterton’s most iconic and colorful stops. From the parking lot, a short, easy trail forms a 0.8 km loop around the rim of the canyon, offering great vantage points to peer down into the vivid red-and-green walls. With almost no elevation gain, it’s perfect for families, casual walkers, or anyone wanting a quick taste of the park’s dramatic geology.
The real fun, though, is stepping down into the creek bed itself. In late summer, when the flow is gentle, you can wander along the shallow stream, hopping from rock to rock and exploring the sculpted channels carved by centuries of rushing water. Sturdy footwear with good grip is highly recommended, as some slopes are steep and the smooth rock can be surprisingly slick.
Geologically, the canyon’s striking color comes from ancient Precambrian rock: sandstones and shales rich in iron. Over millions of years, oxygen combined with the iron to create the deep red hue, while green streaks appear where the iron has been reduced by water. The canyon was gradually cut by glacial meltwater and Blackiston Creek, which continues to shape it today.
Benches and picnic tables near the trailhead make this an easy spot to linger, whether you’re snapping photos of the vibrant walls or just enjoying the sound of the creek before heading on to Blackiston Falls or other nearby trails.
Blackiston Falls
The Blackiston Falls Trail is one of the easiest and most satisfying short walks in Waterton. Starting right from the Red Rock Canyon parking area, it’s just above a kilometre each way and barely gains any elevation (though there is a short dip and then ascent at the beginning of the trail, so it’s ideal for families, casual walkers, or anyone looking for a quick outing after exploring Red Rock Canyon.
The path meanders gently through open forest and small meadows, where you might spot a few wildflowers and catch glimpses of the surrounding peaks. Much of the taller forest burned in the 2017 Kenow wildfire, so the trail now feels wide-open and airy, with plenty of sunshine and young greenery springing up along the ground.
In only about 15 minutes, you’ll reach the viewing platform overlooking Blackiston Falls. The creek surges through a narrow limestone gorge, creating a cool mist and a steady roar that you can hear before you see it. There are also a few benches here, from which you can relax and enjoy the views (and the sounds of the falls).
Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls Hiking Tips
Hiking Experience
Both trails are suitable for most novice hikers, as they are not technical and do not require special skills. They are excellent options for families with young children.
Cell Service
Cell service in Waterton Lakes National Park is limited and unreliable. While some cell service is available in the town of Waterton, it is generally spotty and may be unavailable in other areas of the park.
Leave No Trace
Stick to the designated path to protect the surrounding environment.
Bugs
The prairie-meets-mountain environment of the Waterton Lakes National Park means you can encounter both wetland-loving mosquitoes and sunny-meadow-loving horseflies when visiting Waterton Lakes National Park.
Late May – Mid June: Mosquito activity begins in low-lying, wet areas (near lakes, streams, marshy valleys).
Late June – Mid August: Mosquitoes are most active around dawn/dusk, especially near vegetation and water. Black and deer flies are worse during calm, sunny days in open areas.
Late August – September: Bug activity drops sharply as nights cool.
Ticks are also present in the park and the surrounding area. They are most active from April to June, especially in dry, grassy slopes.
In summary, be sure to pack insect repellent for your visit to Waterton. We can recommend visiting in late August, which is when we spent most of our time in Waterton, as we didn’t find bugs to be a nuisance during our time there.
Equipment
No specialized equipment is required for the trails, though proper hiking footwear is recommended.
Weather and Exposure
Waterton Lakes National Park is notoriously windy, though these trails tend to be less exposed to wind compared to other trails. However, because the 2017 Kenow wildfire removed much of the forest canopy, there is now very little shade, leaving hikers exposed to the sun for most of the route.
Current Trail Conditions
Check this page of the Waterton Lakes NP for up-to-date trail conditions and any notices of temporary trail closure.
Best Time to Hike the Trail
The best months to hike in Waterton are generally late May through early October.
June & September: These shoulder season months offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. You might encounter some rain or cooler temperatures, but you’ll also experience more tranquillity on the trails.
-Wildflowers will start to peak in late June.
-Mosquitoes can be quite active in June.
-Fall colours are apparent in late September.
July & August: Best weather (warmer, drier and more dependable) but more crowded trails – the park attracts around 500,000 visitors each year. Nearly 50% of visitors come in July and August.
-July is peak wildflower season.
-Bugs are still quite active in July, with their activity decreasing throughout August.
May and October*: These months are more unpredictable, with the possibility of snow, especially at higher elevations, and hiking may be limited to lower-elevation trails.
Quick Summary
If you want wildflowers and smaller crowds, late June to early July is ideal. Daylight hours are also significantly longer during these months, allowing you more time to explore every day.
If you want fall colors and fewer people, aim for mid-to-late September. Cooler temperatures make longer hikes more comfortable.
During the peak summer months, it’s best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the trail’s most crowded times and to maximize your chance of finding shade.
Access during winter is limited to those wanting to cross-country ski up the Red Rock Parkway, as the road is closed to vehicle traffic.
Wildlife
You may encounter wildlife along the trails, and it is important to know how to react in the presence of wild animals appropriately. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, whether deer, big-horned sheep, elk or wolves. Never attempt to feed wildlife, either: feeding wildlife in a Canadian national park is prohibited by law and may lead to a fine of up to $25,000.
Bears: Waterton Lakes National Park is bear territory, so you should carry bear spray at all times (keep it easily accessible in a bear spray holster) and know how to use it.
When possible, hike in groups, and try to make frequent noise while you hike to avoid surprise encounters.
Follow Waterton’s advisories and Trail Condition pages for more information on current bear sightings and trail closures.
For more tips on wildlife encounters and safety precautions, be sure to check out our guide on Wildlife Watching in Waterton.
Hiking Packing List
All Trails subscription – This comes in really handy for areas with little or no cell reception, as the annual subscription allows you to download trail maps for offline use.
External Battery – If you are using your phone to track your progress along the trail or to help with navigation, you certainly don’t want your phone to die on you. That’s especially true in the unlikely event that you might get hurt or need assistance.
Hiking poles – These can be particularly useful in steep trails or muddy/boggy trail conditions.
Water Filter Bottle – The Life Straw bottle is an advanced water bottle with a filter that not only improves water taste but more importantly filters out bacteria and parasites, chemicals and microplastics.
Headlamp – very practical and a smart choice if you plan to start your hike before sunrise or finish it after sunset.
Some of Our Other Favorite Nearby Trails in Waterton
Bellevue Prairie Trail
If you are looking for a family-friendly and uncrowded hiking adventure, the Bellevue Prairie Trail might be for you. While it may lack some of the “wow” factor that some of the park’s more popular trails are known for, it still offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while you traverse gently undulating grassland hills. With mountains on one side and open blue skies on the other, the Bellevue Trail perfectly exemplifies the park’s motto, “where the mountains meet the prairies.” The trail ends by the park’s bison paddock, offering you a chance to see Bison roam the fields.
For more information on this trail, be sure to check out our Bellevue Prairie Trail hiking guide.
Bear’s Hump Trail
Most people will probably tell you that the best views in Waterton Lake National Park are from the top of the Bear’s Hump, the endpoint of the park’s most popular trail – and we would have to agree: the panoramic views from the top are simply sublime and somewhat reminiscent of those from atop a Norwegian fjord. The hike up the Bear’s Hump trail is quite steep, but it is also very short, meaning that it is accessible to most novice hikers and is generally considered to be family-friendly.
For more information on this trail, be sure to check out our Bear’s Hump hiking guide.
Where to stay near the Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls Trails
Unlike many national parks, Waterton Lakes National Park offers several lodging options right inside its charming lakeside townsite, putting visitors just steps from the trails, restaurants, and waterfront views. Staying within the park means you can enjoy sunrise and sunset over the lake without ever needing to drive far.
Prince of Wales Hotel – One of the most iconic places to stay in the park, this historic 1920s landmark is perched dramatically on a bluff overlooking Upper Waterton Lake. Its vintage interiors, elegant tea service, and panoramic views make it one of Canada’s most memorable national park lodges.
Bayshore Inn & Spa – For those who prefer to stay closer to the heart of the village, the Bayshore Inn & Spa offers modern comforts right on the lakefront. Ideal for travellers who want easy access to restaurants, shops, and boat rentals.
Aspen Village – Meanwhile, the Aspen Village Inn provides a relaxed, family-friendly alternative with spacious rooms and great value, all within walking distance of the park’s main attractions.
Want to Discover More Hiking Trails In The Canadian Rockies?
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Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
Travel Insurance
SafetyWing is a travel insurance company that offers comprehensive coverage for travellers. Includes Medical Insurance and Travel Insurance. Primarily geared towards long-term travellers, digital nomads, and expats.
e-Sim cards
Airalo is the world’s first and largest eSIM store with eSIM plans for 200+ countries and regions worldwide. With Airalo eSIMs, travellers can get connected the moment they land at their destination and avoid nasty data roaming charges
eSIMS are a sustainable alternative to single-use SIM cards – they are 100% digital, require less energy to produce and be re-used rather than disposed of.
Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Waterton Hiking Guide for the Red Rock Canyon and Blackiston Falls Trails and that it will prove useful for planning your hiking trip.
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