Waterton Lake National Park advises to plan ahead for busy summer season

Plan ahead because it’s about to get really busy in the mountains.

That’s what officials at Waterton Lakes National Park are urging everyone to do before they head out to the park in southeast Alberta this summer season.

Spokesperson Dallas Meidinger says it gets really busy. He says if people want a quieter experience, it’s best to show up in the early morning and during the weekdays.

“Waterton Lake National Park website provides detailed information on what locations are open, what visitors can expect, how to prepare, and what services might be available. If they’re looking for a quieter experience we really do recommend visiting earlier in the day or during the week as summer weekends can be our busiest times,” said Meidinger.

Meidinger says the biggest attraction is always the wildlife.

“So keep a minimum of three bus lengths away from any elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep and 10 bus lengths away from bears, cougars, and wolves,” said Meidinger.

But that comes with the responsibility of respecting the wildlife while visiting.

“Never approach or entice wildlife and also please pick up your garbage. One of the biggest causes of human-wildlife conflict is food left unattended or garbage left out so please stay close by your food and throw away any garbage you might have,” said Meidinger.

“Whenever I’m about to do something, I think: ‘Would an idiot do that?’ And if they would, I do not do that thing”
-Dwight K. Schrute
Ok, “Idiot” is harsh. But leaving food garbage out isn’t smart. Ever. Dispose of it properly. #KeepWatertonWildhttps://t.co/oq2idNrGie pic.twitter.com/5GM6zUMipT

— Waterton Lakes National Park, Parks Canada (@WatertonLakesNP) May 13, 2022