Hike to Crypt Lake

The hike begins with a gradual climb through shaded forest, which thins as you progress into the hanging valley. Along the way, you will pass by three amazing waterfalls: Twin Falls at 3.5km (2 mi), Burnt Rock Falls at 5.6km (3.5 mi) and the 600ft Crypt Falls at 8km (5 mi). There is also a 1km (0.6 mi) side hike for Hell Roaring Falls. It is recommended to take this path on the way back to ensure you have enough time to catch the ferry (details below).

The trail then becomes an open walk through a valley, crossing small mountain streams and leading up to spectacular views of Crypt Falls. Keep a lookout for bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and many different rodents scurrying around the rocks.

Reaching Crypt Lake headwall is one of the most thrilling parts of the hike. You will climb a bolted 8 rung steel ladder into a 60m (200 ft) natural tunnel, which will require you to crouch and crawl your way through. You then traverse 60m along an exposed narrow cliff ledge, which has a steel cable for extra stability.

It is then about 5 minutes through a small forest until you reach the crystal clear Crypt Lake. If you take a stroll around to the other side of the lake, you will cross the border into the United States.

Allow yourself about 30 minutes less for the hike back to Crypt Landing to catch the ferry.

Getting there: To reach this trailhead, you will have to take a passenger ferry across Upper Waterton Lake, from the Waterton Park Townsite to Crypt Landing. Tickets for the return ride are $22CAD for adults and are available through Waterton Inter-Nation Shoreline Cruise Co.. During peak season, the ferry departs twice in the morning at 9 & 10am, and returns for you at 4 & 5:30pm. Off season times are 10am & 5:30pm only.