Waterton Lakes has kick-started its 2024 season, as visitors came out this past May long weekend to experience one of Alberta’s most beautiful and recognized national parks.
“Our campground was close to full. With the weather, as expected, there were some cancellations. Traffic was average. In terms of volume, I would put it in the mid-range, so typical summer volumes,” says Christy Gustavison, Waterton visitor experience manager. “The weather didn’t seem to have too much of a bearing on whether people chose to come or not.”
To continue to manage the Park’s aquatic resources, Gustavison notes, a ban has been put in place on all outside watercraft from launching in the Park. “If you live in Lethbridge, we would prefer you don’t bring your watercraft to the Park and plan to use it. That’s not allowed anymore.”
According to Gustavison, the ban is because of the risk of invasive species such as mussels entering into Park waters. “We fully recognize the Park is the headwaters for much of the water that flows out of the Park. We want to make sure we preserve our aquatic resources and prevent mussels from establishing in the watershed.”
One important tip for visitors to consider before heading out is to “plan your trip,” says Gustavison. “Our website has a lot of information on things like camping availability, what services are available and our trail report – things like that. We encourage people to check our website.”
Visitors are also encouraged to choose an activity that corresponds with their level of experience.
Gustavison reminds visitors there’s a lot of wildlife throughout the Park. “We want you to help us to keep the park clean by using the garbage containers or if they’re full, take your garbage with you.”
Gustavison adds to also give wildlife some space. “Keep a distance away from them, respect any speed limits or closures, keep dogs or any other pets on a leash and please don’t feed any wildlife.”
In terms of campfires within the park, Gustavison says, “Soak, Stir and Stoke” is a good practice. “In Waterton, you can only have a campfire in a designated fire pit in some of our picnic shelters or in the campground in Belly River that has designated fire pits.”
Waterton has certainly a lot to do during summer months, says Gustavison. “We have many picnic areas, the wildflowers are out and we have a lot of hiking trails.”
For more information about summer fun visit parks.canada.ca/waterton.
