Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes

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Aerial view of a lake, town, and mountains with clear blue skies and vibrant greenery.

A person sitting on a rock, overlooking a lake and mountains under a clear blue sky.

Stunning views, with clear waters framed by dramatic mountains and lush forests.

Three people on paddle boards in Waterton Lake with the mountains in the background.

Couple canoeing in a clear bottom canoe on Waterton Lake wearing life jackets.

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Exploring the smallest national park in the Canadian Rockies by boat gives a unique perspective on the area’s natural beauty. Flanked by the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, the sparkling Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes are the largest bodies of water in the park. Upper Waterton Lake stretches 11 km (7 mi) from the Waterton townsite and is the deepest lake in the Canadian Rockies at 148m (487 ft). Watch for wildlife from the quiet safety of your canoe or kayak. Powerboaters can launch at the Waterton townsite marina and the Linnet Lake picnic site on Middle Waterton Lake. Waterski when the water’s calm, but bring a wetsuit—the glacial water is appropriately cold. When the wind picks up, windsurf, sailboard, or dip into the calm waters of Emerald Bay for swimming and paddleboarding. Divers can even explore the wreckage of a sunken ship. Access Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes from the Waterton townsite, 44 km (27 mi) south of Pincher Creek on AB-6.