Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP

Waterton, Alberta

4.7/5

based on 3 reviews

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Distance

1.7 miles

Elevation Gain

738 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jared Seely

Short but steep hike to amazing panoramic view of Waterton. It's not enough to say this view is picturesque!

The trailhead is located at the Visitor Center of Waterton Lakes National Park. The trail is very well maintained, but know that the elevation gain is quick - in less than a mile you gain 738 ft. Roundtrip is 1.7 miles and is totally worth the short but strenuous hike.

When you reach the top there is an area with a bench to rest and eat snacks or lunch. Make sure to bring a water bottle or two. The top is a rounded cliff that looks like the hump of a grizzly bear, hence the name "Bear's Hump". It's still a cliff, so keep small children away from the edge. The top is windy so you'll want to bring a jacket and be careful of the wind gusts around the edge of the cliffs.

The best time of day to do the hike is in the morning or evening. The breathtaking vista shows many areas of the park, in particular is the Waterton townsite, the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel, and the Waterton Valley with Lower, Middle, and Upper Waterton Lakes.

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Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP Reviews

morganna blackburn

Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP

04/12/22

i’ve been doing this hike for 14 years and it’s changed a lot but it’s still my favourite every single time

5.0

Explorer

Nathan Szwarc

Explorer

Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP

08/02/16

really nice short hike that gives an outstanding view

5.0

Myah Schulz

Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP

04/20/16

Very fun hike, though if you go during peak summer season the trail will be busy!!

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP

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Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Stargaze at the Top of Bear's Hump

Explore Cameron Falls

Hike to Crypt Lake

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Backpack the Alderson-Carthew Trail

Backpack to Cosley Lake

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