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2009 - Summer Guide to Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Waterton Lakes National Park Visitor Guide included inside Sunken Treasures When you hear 'Waterton-Glacier and rivers. These waters nourish all life abundance of life is low, the variety cold lakes. Recent International Peace Park', what do you in the Peace Park, ultimately returning of fish, aquatic insects, amphibians research carried out by think of? Many people would describe to the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. and waterfowl is high. Research is park staff and the Univer vistas of majestic mountains and now revealing intriguing lifestyles sity of Lethbridge, found spacious valleys, or intriguing wildlife Water is the lifeblood flowing through and interconnections within aquatic that, while only a few sculpin like the bears, elk and mountain goats. and connecting the landscapes of the communities and between aquatic and were caught in their sampling They might mention the tapestry of two parks, as well as the land and terrestrial life. nets, there were several found in wildflowers or how they can drive or communities beyond them. Stored as the stomachs of lake trout. This could hike from one park to the other. Some snow and ice, the water melts through For example, Professor Richard Hauer indicate that the apparent rarity of might mention the shared resource the summer, providing a steady flow in Glacier tells a story of an intriguing the sculpin may have been a result of management, education programs supporting plants, trees and wildlife, as relationship between a tiny vole researchers setting their nets at depths and ongoing cooperative relationships well as our many uses, from agriculture and alpine waters. In areas where where the sculpins did not live. carried out the by the two parks' staff. to industry to recreation. A cool drink meltwaters from snowfields pool in Most likely, the ultimate example of of water enjoyed by many North rocky areas, alpine plants grow and wet Much of the aquatic research currently the interconnection of the two parks Americans starts here! soil and peat builds up, creating small underway is in response to some would largely be overlooked (literally fens. The rich fen vegetation attracts significant concerns we are facing and figuratively!); the waters flowing Peace Park visitors enjoy these rushing heather voles, which eat the plants then in maintaining the health of aquatic in, through and beyond the Waterton- streams and placid lakes. Many are the poop directly in the water at their latrine communities in the Peace Park. Inside Glacier International Peace Park. backdrop for iconic park vistas, such as sites. This produces unusually high the Guide, you can learn more about the panorama over St. Mary Lake and concentrations of nitrogen in the water, how 'alien' fish unfairly compete Most of the Peace Park's water arrives as Wild Goose Island and the international which support growth of diatoms that with native fish, and more. Turn the snow or rain from Pacific coastal areas view down Upper Waterton Lake. Yet are eaten by the larvae of a very rare page and discover life and challenges to the west. Once it falls, it may linger few of us consider what lies beneath alpine caddisfly. Hikers in the area likely beneath the water. awhile as snow, but eventually flows those sparkling surfaces. have no idea of the tiny interconnected either east or westward depending on world at their feet. which side of the Continental Divide Waterton and Glacier's mountain it landed on. Many trickles of rain or waters are cold (even in summer, they Consider also the deepwater sculpin. melting snow converge as they flow are usually well below 15°C/ 59°F), are This fish was thought to be a very rare from mountaintops to valley bottoms, high in oxygen, and have low nutrient inhabitant of the Upper Waterton Lake, forming small and large lakes, streams levels and little plant life. While the a glacial relic found only in a few deep
Sunrise at Wild Goose Island David Restivo Red Rock Canyon Anna Lee-Carswell
In 1932, Waterton Lakes National Park and longest undefended border, as well as a spirit Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Glacier National Park were officially joined of cooperation which is reflected in wildlife and became a World Heritage Site in 1995 - for its together as Waterton-Glacier International vegetation management search and rescue scenicvalues,itssignificantdimate,landformsand Peace Park. The Peace Park celebrates the programs, and joint interpretive programs, ecological processes, and abundant diversity of WATE£rON*GLACIER peace and goodwill existing along the world's brochures, and exhibits. wildlife and wildflowers. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Discover Our Neighbors'Cultural Heritage This area holds special appeal for American handcrafts as sales items. The People's Center and Native . visitors interested in the culture of The museum is open daily from June Ed-Ventures, for the preservation of indigenous peoples. Waterton-Glacier through September. Also in Browning, Kootenai and Salish Culture, are located International Peace Park lies just west North American Indian Days, the second near Pablo, Montana. The Center of the Kainai and Piikani Reserves weekend in July, is a large celebration of provides educational opportunities, in Canada and borders the Blackfeet Native American culture that includes a full-day and half-day interpretive tours Reservation in the United States. People parade, traditional dress, and dancing. of the Flathead Indian Reservation, of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Visitors are always welcome. a museum collection, and gift shop. Tribes, southwest of the park, also have Open daily throughout the summer. a close association with the park. Take Northeast of Waterton, early plains Call 406-883-5344 or 406-675-0160 for the time to learn about our neighbors. culture is dramatically displayed further information. at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Nearby in Browning, Montana, the World Heritage Site. This site is open Museum of the Plains Indian features seven days a week in summer. Phone fascinating exhibits and Native 403-553-2731 for further information. Blackfeet at Two Medicine R. E. Marble International Peace Park Hike Waterton-Glacier became the world's first International Peace Park in 1932. Join us in celebrating our 76* year of friendship and cooperative management by participating Come Prepared in an International Peace Park Hike. These special hikes are held every Wednesday and Saturday in July and August. Starting at 10 a.m. from the Bertha Lake trailhead Bring a lunch, water, rain gear, in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, this 14 km (8.7 mi) hike along Upper jacket, hat. Waterton Lake is jointly led by Canadian and American park interpreters. Wear sturdy footwear. Learn about Waterton-Glacier's three international designations and take part in a peace & friendship ceremony as you cross the International Boundary on your way The trail is not difficult, but you to Goat Haunt in Glacier National Park, Montana. Return to Waterton via boat. A fee will be hiking most ofthe day. is charged for the return boat trip and advance reservations are recommended. The boat will have you back to the dock in Waterton by 6 p.m. Each hike is limited to 35 Bring money for the boat. people, so you must pre-register at either the Visitor Centre in Waterton (403-859- 5133) or at the St. Mary Visitor Center (406-732-7750) in Glacier. Reservations are only Pets are not permitted. accepted for the next scheduled hike (open on Saturday for Wednesday hikes; open Beargrass Bill Hayden on Wednesday for Saturday hikes).
"Hands across the border" ceremony on the International Peace Park Hike JeffYee The "International" provides return transportation for International Peace Park Hike participants David Restivo Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park Accessibility Nestled in the far southeast corner of The Apgar and St. Mary Visitor Centers, Wheelchair accessible trails include the British Columbia and adjacent to both the International Peace Park Pavilion, Trail of the Cedars and the Running Glacier and Waterton Lakes National and the Cameron Lake Day Use Area Eagle Falls Nature Trail in Glacier, and Parks is a spectacular natural gem, the are wheel-chair accessible. A listing the Linnet Lake and Townsite trails in Akamina-Kishinena Provincial Park. of additional facilities and services, Waterton. Visitors can access the east boundary accessible to visitors with special of the park via an old trail built in needs, is available at visitor centers and Visitors sensitive to altitude should be the 1920's between the Akamina entrance stations throughout Waterton- aware of the following park elevations: Parkway and the Flathead River Glacier International Peace Park. Lake McDonald 3150 ft. 960 m Valley. The short 1.5 kilometer easy Logan Pass 6640 ft. 2024 m to moderate grade offers wilderness Interpretive programs in Glacier Many Glacier 4900 ft. 1494 m enthusiasts opportunities to hike, National Park accessible by wheelchair Polebridge 3600 ft. 1097 m mountain bike, camp, horseback ride are highlighted in the park's ranger- St. Mary Lake 4500 ft. 1372 m (permit required) or seek solitude on a guided activity guide, available Two Medicine 5150 ft. 1570 m multi-day backpacking trip. This wild throughout Glacier. Waterton 4200 ft. 1280 m treasure is Waterton-Glacier's brilliant western neighbor.
For more information contact: BC Parks, 205 Industrial Road G, Cranbrook,B.C.VlC7G5 (205) 489-8540 Fax: (250) 489-8506 www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks
Fleabane David Restivo Accessible boardwalk on the Trail ofthe Cedars David Restivo
Parks Pares The Waterton-Glacier Guide is a joint publication between Canada Canada Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada & Glacier National Park in the United States. ^m^mWmM^i S^P^BilRE^ flllllll
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s you travel through this distinctive landscape "where the **The National Parks of Canada are hereby dedicated to Amountains meet the prairie", take time to explore and enjoy its ^i^gs©&f>le of Canada ffpst their benefit, education and natural features. No other national park in Canada protects so much enjoyment..»and shall be maintained and made use of so within such a small place. Shaped by wind, fire and water, Waterton has over 250 species of birds, more than 60 species of mammals, 24 species of as to leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future fish and 8 species of reptiles and amphibians. Because the open prairie generations.'* sweeps up mountainsides, you can enjoy spectacular vistas, carpeted by Canada National Parks Act, WW abundant wildflowers and peppered with wildlife such as deer, bighorn sheep, ground squirrels, birds and bears. In Waterton, a combination of geography, topography, and mild, moist, windy climate has created a wide variety of growing conditions Waterton is - within a very small area. Add in the effects of fire, floods, and avalanches » 264 km (159 miles or about and you end up with a varied landscape which provides homes for many 21/2 hours drive) from plants and animals, as well as a wonderful place for you to visit. Calgary, Alberta. Stroll along a beach, hike a flowery trail, paddle a canoe, tour the • 130 km (78 miles or about Upper Waterton by boat, relish a picnic, learn something new at an 1 hour, 15 minutes drive) exhibit, spot a deer or jay, brave a chilly dip in a mountain lake, or just southwest of Lethbridge, kick back and relax. There's lots to do here and you can enjoy it knowing Alberta. that it will always be here. j 60 km (40 miles or about 3/4 When you're heading out of the park, remember that Waterton is just hour drive) north of Glacier one of 42 national parks and 157 national historic sites that Parks Canada National Park entrance at St. protects across the country, each representing a place, person or event Mary, Montana tharCanadians value and that are there for you to experience. 1 one hour southeast of the Frank Slide Centre (located on Hwy 3 in the Crowsnest Pass). Montana Airports and car rentals are in Calgary and Lethbridge, AB; and, Kalispell and Great Falls, MT.
FOR ANY EMERGENCY CALLJ403) 859-2636 Contact Numbers Visitor Information (403) 859-5133 RCMP - Waterton (May-Oct) (403) 859-2244 Hospitals Cardston (403)653-4411 Pincher Creek (403) 627-3333 Park Reception (403) 859-2224
Parks Pares 1*1 Canada Canada Canada" Box 200, Waterton Parte, Alberta TOK 2M0 « 403-858-5133 Visi Planner wvra.pc.gfia/waterton
hether you enjoy a solitary morning stroll or an evening program with If you like the water, whether on your own or guided by experts, try Wfriends, Waterton Lakes National Park offers a wide range of activities boating. The best spot for paddling a canoe or kayak is Cameron Lake, and adventures. Ask our staff for an experience designed with you in mind. where both are available for rent. Boat launching ramps are available If scenery and •wildlife appeal to you, drive one of the scenic parkways. at the Linnet Lake picnic site and at the village marina. (Motorboats are All have pulloffs and viewpoints for safe viewing opportunities and a restricted to Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes.) Or join the crew of the chance to discover more about this special place. MV International for the two hour international cruise of Upper Waterton • The Entrance Road begins in the prairie and follows the Waterton Lake that leaves from the marina. But remember that park waters are very Lakes chain to the village. Enjoy scenic views of the Waterton Valley cold, and Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes frequently have high winds and its wildlife. Take time to explore the Prince of Wales Hotel and rough water. Conditions can change very quickly on all lakes. National Historic Site. Like to stay active? Try hiking some of • The Akamina Parkway winds 16 kilometres through mountains our 200 km of trails. Begin by planning to Cameron Lake, where exhibits describe life in the subalpine. your trip. Ask park staff, check out our Along the way, visit the Discovery Well National Historic Site "Hiking & Wilderness Camping" fact commemorating western Canada's first producing oil well. sheet, or use a guidebook to pick a hike • Red Rock Parkway is the best suitable for everyone in your group. place to experience Waterton's Make sure you have the knowledge, special mountain and prairie equipment and supplies to have a safe mix. Stop at the Native History and enjoyable hike. Stop at the Visitor exhibit to gain some insight Centre for trail conditions, cautions or into the lives of aboriginal closures - you'll increase your safety and enjoyment. peoples in this area. The 15 kilometre parkway is very Cycle, but be aware of other traffic and strong winds. Parkways are narrow and may not be suitable heavily travelled and without for larger motorhomes. shoulders, so use caution. Red Rock • The Chief Mountain Highway links Waterton with our neighbour Parkway is recommended in the in Montana, Glacier National Park. Stop at the Waterton Valley spring and fall when the road is closed | Overlook to view the Waterton and Blakiston valleys, then continue to vehicle traffic. Chief Mountain on through the site of the 1998 Sofa Mountain fire. Highway has wide shoulders, but be prepared for some large hills. Bicycles ^•Jj^: Located just inside the park lit can be rented in the village. boundary, off Highway 6, the Bison Paddock loop road Mountain bike on four different trails: Akamina Pass, Snowshoe, provides an opportunity to see Crandell Loop, and Wishbone. These trails are shared with hikers, horseback these magnificent animals in riders and wildlife. Please yield to them. To avoid unpleasant surprises, slow their natural grassland habitat. down and make noise with bells For your safety, please do not or voice when approaching blind get out of your vehicle. corners. Picnic areas are great places to stop '^Siwr Horseback ride, whether for an for a meal, or for a break to relax hour or a day. Most trails are open and enjoy the view. Many have level ground and accessible washrooms. to horses and there are qualified Remember to keep a "bare" picnic site so wildlife don't join your meal. guides available. Horse use guidelines are available from the If you'd like to learn more about the park, interpretive programs take Visitor Centre or Park Gate. place every evening at 8 p.m. throughout the summer at the Falls Theatre and five nights a week at Crandell Campground Theatre. Or try a guided Fish with the required national park hike, 0T-the street theatre. For details, pick up a brochure at park facilities. fishing licence, which can be purchased at the Visitor Centre, campground As you travel through the park check out trailside, roadsite and day use kiosks, and other locations in the park. Be sure you read and understand area e)d5bits. the fishing regulations related to restrictions, limits, and closed waters.
* eggs •• * B • .» .'- Box 200, Waterton Park, Alberta TOK 2M0 • 403^-5133 Visit Planner www.pc.gc.ca/waterton
Stay on the beaten path: explore Looking for more information? the village. With the Townsite Stop at the Visitor Centre, located on the Entrance Parkway, one kilometre Loop trail, Cameron Falls, outside the village. Pamphlets, displays, and park staff will help you get the International Peace Park the most out of your visit. The Visitor Pavilion, the Heritage Centre, gift Centre, and adjoining washrooms, are shops, restaurants, art galleries, open from mid-May to mid-October. bookstores, coffee shops, ice The Park Receptionist, located in the cream parlours, a gas station, Park Operations Building (open from tennis courts, a movie theatre, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday, playgrounds, a ball diamond and four churches - there's lots to do! year round), can also provide you with Many activities are suitable for visitors who have mobility challenges. information. Accessible washrooms are If you are wondering whether an activity may be appropriate for you or a located in the village at the Firehall. companion, please ask Parks Canada staff.
A full house....
Birders have "Big Days". In Waterton, there is the "ungulate grand slam". Staff coming to work amuse themselves by seeing who can observe one of each kind of ungulate resident in the park: a bighorn sheep Sheep or goat?? a white tail deer a mule deer an elk a moose a bison and, on special days • a goat See how many you can see while you visit the park.
°*mmm. Use your common senses Experience Waterton with more than your eyes; use all your senses to connect with this special place. Have you seen... Have you smelled... a Columbian ground squirrel standing pines in the hot summer sun a lake trout swimming in shallow water a flower on the stem a chickadee on a branch decaying wood on the forest floor a paintbrush in bloom wet leaves in the rain a dragonfly over a pond the pungent aroma of cow parsnip blossom the tracks of a Canada goose in the mud at Have you touched... the Maskinonge a red pebble cold from the creek the bats at dusks at Emerald Bay a spruce needle sharp against your finger an imaginary face in the mountain the fuzz on a crocus' petal Have you heard... the stiff stalk of rough fescue grass the trees creaking in the wind the sharp thorn of a wild rose waves crlashing against the rocks smooth bark of a birch and rough bark on an a squirrel churring aged poplar a pika calling "eep" Have you tasted... dead leaves crunching underfoot a snowflake on your tongue a deer bleating or an elk bugling a burnt marshmallow hot from a campfire a chorus frog croaking in the twilight a squashed sandwich from the bottom of your| the quiet of a still night deep in a mountain backpack valley
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+ Box 200, Waterton Pa*, Alberta TOK 2M0 403-859-5133 www.pc.gc.ca/waterton Visit Planner Choose the Best Season
weather is generally warme r, their best. The most spectacular dryer, and more dependable, birding time is in late fall when and summertime offers the large numbers of waterfowl migrate most opportunities. Over half of through the park. Waterton's visitors come during Waterton in winter is a time these two months. of quiet retreat. Facilities and Late summer and fall are businesses are limited, and include particularly good wildlife viewing some accommodation, restaurants, times, especially for black bear, and gift shops. Enjoy a variety elk and deer. The grasslands of of winter activities, such as the lower mountain sides provide snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, important food for wildlife, as well ice climbing and wildlife viewing. as open views which make them But be prepared for conditions more visible. Ungulates such as ranging from warm and windy to deer, elk and bighorn sheep mate extreme cold and deep snow. Strong in the fall, so they are looking winds can create poor visibility, icy
Stephen Harrington Stephen Harrington aterton's character changes conditions, and drifting snow on Wwith the seasons. By roads. understanding these seasonal cycles, Before you arrive, check the you can plan your trip that best suits information available. In summer your interests. months, planning your arrival Spring is the best wildflower times and calling ahead may save time in Waterton. Within a short you frustrating lineups or lack of walk from your car you can find accommodation. In winter, check twenty or thirty different species. road and avalanche reports and gas Wildflowers can be seen in the park up. Prepare yourself by finding out at almost any season, if you follow what the park offers at the time of their bloom time upt the mountains. year in which you intend to travel. The most popular time to visit A«. .• V -*V>VHA Waterton is July and August. The Parks Canada - Cyndi Smith
TOWNSITE CAMPGROUND REmRVAflONS All campsites in the Townsite Campground are now available for reservation. This change makes the reservation system simpler to understand and use. Visitors quickly know if they can get a site for the night, and staff can promptly deal with requests for changes. Please note, all serviced sites in July and August, or any site on long weekends, are likely to be reserved in advance. Crandell Mountain and Belly River remain first-come first-served. To reserve a campsite, please visit www.pccantpmg.ca or call toll free in North America 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783).
Canadian Comedii
Waterton National Park is where the wind is born. As one local said to me, 'Once it gets blowing there's nothing to stop it from here to Mexico', which is exactly where I would've woken up had I slept outside! Course, it was December so I got a room. (I do like nature but I'm not mental!) This region is grand and holy country, where the flat forever plains of southern Alberta roll up to meet a bulwark of granite standing sentinel strong along a spine of continent called the Great Divide, where the wild lives close enough to make mortality a reality and Life worth living. Bring it on brother! Box 200, Waterton Park, Alberta TOK 2M0«* 403-859-5133 www.pc.gc.ca/waterton Visit Planner 'Each of Canada's protected heritage places is part of Canada's collective soul, and a part of our nation's lips promise wH^gifure. Visijfjrs come to Parks Canada's places for variou^jeasons, |jpassion for f ormistory, a desire to testjflieir physical •tamina, oj to ba alone with me stillness- and the Types awe of SPDJH^IP wide-wen spaces.*' JattStourelle Chieqjkecutive Officer, Personal Parks Canada Agency History Traveller, I like to travel *H*.f A with others No-Hassle Traveller: in comfort and like relaxing, worry-free travq security, following a I Cultural His with family and friends personal connectioni tory Buff: doing whatever comes^ to my ancestry and^ I am pursuing a mu wot heritage. personal interest or hobby when I Did you know travel travel, and like to experiences can be tailored to learn. suit your personality and interests? Virtual Try out the Explorer Quotient (EQ) test Traveller: today to match your travel traits to travel I enjoy experiences designed with you in mind. family Rejuvenator:l events ] To learn your EQ type, take the fast and easy quiz I need to in places^ at http:www.canada.travel/eq or come to our Visitor I escape, that arei Centre and find out where in Waterton you can take it \recharge and Show your profile to the attendant and let them give [renew. f*m *'-«*a4^A>4 W" familiar^ and close. you a few suggestions to find experiences that help you explore the park your way. Once you know your traveller EQ type, visit the Free Spirit: new EQ website: http//www.Canada.travel/ I seek thrills, want eq where you can match your travel traits Authentic experiencer: the best of everything and to extraordinary travel experiences in like to he with others who feel I enjoy using all of my senses Canada. and really getting to know the the same way about havingfun, places I visii^ Cultural Gentle Explorer: explorer: I like returning to places I've enjoyed. 1 want to be I embrace the enth tare, peapli •comfortable, secure, and iv&tt' Wm
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In the know... Interpreters are often at Red Rock Canyon, Cameron Lake and the Townsite to answer your questions and share interesting stories. Laugh and learn at one of our interpretive programs, nightly at the Falls Theatre in the townsite, five nights a week at Crandell Campground. Or catch the Street Theatre on Waterton Avenue by the Heritage Building. Join a Canadian Park Interpreter and an American Park Ranger on a day-long International Peace Park Hike, Wednesday and Saturday. Reserve in advance at the Visitor Centre. Interesting exhibits are located at the Peace Park Pavillion, the Maskinonge, Cameron Lake, on the Townsite Trail, the Bison and Chief Mountain Overlooks. Learn a little more about Waterton. Box 200, Waterton Park, Alberta TOK 2M0 • 403-859-5133 Living With Wildlife www.pc.gc.ca/waterton
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Who could resist those liquid brown eyes? That cold wet nose? Those expressive ears? And she's obviously soooooo hungry! But don't be fooled. When deer become accustomed to human food and touch, they lose their natural fear and become "habituated" to people. This causes problems for both them and us. Deer that are fed by people learn to aggressively beg for food. Then they teach their offspring. A deer that lets you touch it or feed it is not afraid of you. When you run out of bread, leaves, grass, popcorn, French fries, or whatever else you're feeding it, it does not understand why the food-source has dried up. It may strike at you, knock you down and trample you, demanding more food. Their hooves are very sharp and they have a powerful kick. This is especially dangerous to children, who often will put their hands out to lure deer over to them. If it smells like food, it must be food, A deer that is fed human food will seek it out in future, and may eat plastic bags, food wrappers and other garbage, mistaking it for food. Parks Canada veterinarians have found plastic bags and garbage tangled up in the intestines of dead deer. It is illegal to feed wildlife in a national park. Please help keep them wild and enjoy them from a distance.
liere are some tips to enjoy a safe visit and efp sure that futur^generations have the chance to see wildlife that is truly wild. llrajcilife are at^cted to roadsides tot the iood and eas\ tra\ el lo pre\ ent collisions w llh \\ iidlife, SLOW DOWN, be alert, and scan ahead^lbr animals. If you !>pot one njumal, look for others they^tten travel in grotjps*. ^ Store all food and food-related items inside a closed, hallpiided vehlcie.CoolefS^boxes &nd cans are not ^ bear-proof. \{ \ ou leave food or garbagenutLjvh^re..wildlife can get nl it, \ ou mav start A piotoss ot habituation, where animals aggiess>ivel\ seek out human lood Animals that become habituated often hav e to be killed, Keep at least three bus lengths (30 metres/100 feet) away from largealtimalsahd ninebus^lehgths away from"bea¥s. Deerand bighorn sheej? may appear tame, but the\ may suddenly strike .out .» wfth their hooves, antlers.or horns, * * iFari animal approad^^^^^^^pyour distance. Keep the animal's line of travel or escape route clear. • Enticing wildlife by feeding, reaching out lyr mimicking calls is illegal. It will cause thenxio lose their natural fear of people, and be more likely to become agressive, w hich ,. will put 0|her visitorsjn danger. Please read the pamphle||Reep the Wildl|||Mj|dlife" - availabl&irom ail Paikjli facilities A ifilLP KEHOUIL .ANIMALS WILD AND ALIVE1
For more detailed information, come see the free DVD "Staying Safe in If you encounter a bear: Bear Country" in the Falls Theatre. You can also get a copy of "Keep the Bears are intelligent and complex animals. Each bear and each encounter is Wild in Wildlife" at the Information Centre, park campgrounds or unique; there is no single strategy that will work in all situations. other park facilities. • Stay calm. Most bears want to avoid you and ensure you're not a Bears are naturally wary of threat. humans, and generally choose • Pick up small children and stay in a group. to avoid us. However, bears • Keep your pack on, it may provide protection if you're attacked. may at times threaten or attack • Back away slowly, while talking calmly and firmly. Do not make people, especially if surprised. eye contact as the bear may interpret this as Here are some guidelines to aggression. Leave the area or take a detour. keep in mind. If you surprise a bear, and it defends itself J Reduce Your Risk; • If a bear attacks and you have pepper spray, use • If you want to avoid a it! Spray only when the bear gets close. Be awarej problem with a bear, avoid of wind and spray distance. the bear. Do this by making noise. Bears will usually move out of the • If contact is imminent, play dead. Lie on your way if they hear you approaching. Bear bells are not loud enough. Use . stomach with legs apart. Use your arms to your voice instead. protect the back of your head and neck. • Hike in groups and stay on established trails, during daylight hours. • If the attack continues for more than a couple Keep children close. of minutes, consider fighting back. • Watch for bears and their sign - tracks, droppings, diggings, torn-up If a bear stalks you, or attacks at night, it logs, and overturned rocks. Leave the area if you see fresh sign. If you probably thinks you are food: Stephen Harrington come across dead animals, leave the area immediately, and report it to • Try to escape to a building or car. park staff. • If you cannot escape, or if the bear follows, use pepper spray, or shout Some trail conditions make it hard for bears to hear and see and try to intimidate the bear with a branch or rock. Do whatever it hikers. Be particularly careful by streams, blind corners, dense takes to let the bear know you are not easy prey. vegetation and on windy days. • If the bear attacks, fight back aggressively. -f Box 200, Waterton Park, Alberta TOK 2M0 • 403-859-5133 www.pc.gc.ca/waterton For Your Safety
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Waterton Lakes National Park is a wilderness area so there are hazards to any activity. Reduce your risk of injury or death by taking reasonable precautions. If undertaking a hazardous activity (mountain or rock climbing, or hiking alone) you may register with the Warden's offi^ Once Don't Go It Alone. Interpreter-led gear to keep you warm, safe and to registered to go out, you must register back in, by returning your hikes are available, or you can go keep you from getting lost. Wear registration form as soon as possible. Wardens will investigate all on your own. Tell someone where layers of clothing. It can snow any overdue permits. you're going and when you'll be month of the year here. Wind can back. Travel with others and keep chill the body, especially if you've your group together. been sweating, putting you at risk Wear sturdy shoes and watch your of hypothermia. Sunburn can be Cougar Caution step. Most accidents in Waterton a major problem, particularly at While cougars are mainly active at occur when people trip and fall. higher elevations. Carry sunscreen. night; they may be more active in The risk is higher if you're near Pamper Yourself. Take enough food areas like towns and campgrounds waterfalls, streams or lakes, because and drinks to keep yourself safe the area can be slippery and the and happy. A snack at the summit that have habituated deer. Avoid cougars by travelling in groups and water is very cold. Just a few or the end of the trail is a great way Jeff Plomley minutes in cold water can cause to relax and take in the view. It's making noise. Keep children close hypothermia and helplessness. also a good way to bribe reluctant by. Pets left alone outside may be attacked by cougars. If you children or friends! encounter a cougar, immediately pick up small children. Face the animal, Snowfields and avalanche while retreating slowly. Try to appear bigger by holding your arms or an deposits obscure trails and should Bug Off! Few things will ruin your object above your head. Show aggression by shouting, waving a stick or be carefully crossed or avoided. hike like being chased down the throwing rocks. This may deter an attack. If a cougar attacks, fight back. Loose rock on scree slopes and near trail by mosquitos or horseflies. steep inclines creates especially Avoid stings or bites by using dangerous footing. Reduce the risk by repellents and not wearing scented staying on designated trails, stay lotions or perfumes. Ticked Off away from edges and watch your Water. Though park waters are children. Ticks are tiny insects that live in tall grass and wooded 1 generally clean, harmful bacteria areas. They are most active in spring and early summer,! Be Prepared. Take along enough or parasites may be found in any but may be found earlier or later depending on the untreated surface water. Carry weather. water from one of the park's treated Tick bites can cause serious illness, although cases are rare. Avoid them water sources or boil and filter all by staying on trails and away from bushes and tall grass. Wear light- untreated water. coloured clothing so you can spot them more easily. Tuck your pant-legs Cooking & Campfires. Use fuel into your socks, so ticks stay on top where you can see them. stoves for safety and environmental If a tick is embedded, carefully remove it so that the mouth parts do not reasons. Small, controlled campfires stay in your skin, and wash the area with soap and water. If you are unable are allowed in designated places. to remove the entire tick or the area becomes infected, or if a rash develops Check fire hazard and wind around the bite area, see your doctor immediately.
Watching Wildlife Wisely JL%, fw lw JL %J C 1U1 jL?Cd.JL Jillll tips so good we had to share 'em 1 bear Act Small... Resist the urge to get closer, reach out, or call out to wildlife. 1 road Use binoculars or a telephoto lens. Your best chance of observing truly Lots of vehicles wild nature is to become as insignificant as possible - but stay safe. Retreat Lots of people slowly if any animal approaches you or shows signs of aggression. Wildlife Sprinkling of DANGER watching and photography are best done from a safe distance and from your car. Mix on a sunny summer Outta Bed, Sleepy Head! Dawn and dusk is a great time to watch wildlife, day. but it can be cool. Take a blanket, a thermos of something hot, your wildlife guide, binoculars and camera. Find a spot you like and settle in. Then... sit Seeing wildlife is such a vacation highlight that many people forget still and be quiet. After about 10 or 15 minutes, the wildlife will ignore you safety. That's why we have "Bear Jammers" - Parks Canada staff that and go about their business. help keep both visitors and wildlife safe. You can help. If you see Watch for the Signs: Hone your senses by looking for tracks, diggings, or wildlife, watch for traffic, then carefully pull over onto the side of the hair on trees. Listen for bird song or elk bugling. Buy a wildlife postcard road, keeping your left wheels on the pavement. Limit your viewing and write about hearing coyotes howl, watching the antics of jays or finding time so others have a chance to see. Please do not stop in dangerous squirrel tracks. locations, eg. close to a curve. Happy wildlife-watching! National Park Regulations It is your responsibility to know and respect park regulations. They are strictly enforced. • Pets must be on a leash at all times, including in your campsite. Pets are allowed on trails in Waterton. Please remove pet feces and garbage. • It is unlawful to feed, entice or touch park wildlife. • Camping is permitted only in designated areas, as marked by signs. • Removing or collecting natural and historic objects is not allowed. This includes antlers, berries, wildflowers, dead wood, fossils and nests. m
- * \8SSrJ?* • A national park fishing permit is required in Canada's national parks. Only barbless hooks are permitted for use. • Obey Closures. Areas may be temporarily closed by order of the Park Superintendent. They are marked with signs and / or tape. • Firearms are prohibited. • Personal watertcraft (seadoos, jet skis, etc.) are prohibited on all waters.
Stephen Harrington D + Box 200, Waterton Park, Alberta TOK 2M0 • 403-859-5133 Visit Plannei www.pc.gc.ca/waterton Regional Heritage Attractions The owners built 101 coke ovens, a wooden washery, a huge tipple and a large sandstone powerhouse. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque ruins of these, located on Hwy 3, 50 minutes northwest of Waterton.
Frank Slide Interpretive Centre In 1903,82 million tonnes of rock fell from Turtle Mountain in less Nestled in the rolling foothills The Bar U Ranch is located south of than 100 seconds, causing the loss of southern Alberta, Bar U Longview, Alberta just off Highway of 70 lives. Located on Hwy 3, one Ranch National Historic Site 22. The site is open from late-May hour northwest of Waterton, the commemorates the evolution of the until mid-October each year. Centre tells the story of the Frank Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Canadian ranching industry and Slide against the backdrop of the is designated a UNESCO World the contribution of the industry to Bar U Ranch National Historic Site rich history of the Crowsnest Pass. Heritage Site, as well as a National the development of Canada. The P.O. Box 168 and Provincial Historic Site. Visitor Centre and a vibrant living Longview, Alberta T0L1H0 Located on Hwy 785,90 minutes history program interpret a time 1-800-568-4996 northeast of Waterton, this site has when the West was young. one of the world's oldest, largest and best preserved bison jumps. Remington Carriage Museum Special Events at Bar U Ranch houses the largest collection of All Special Events begin at 1:00 pm and are subject to cancellation and/ horse-drawn vehicles in North or rescheduling depending on weather conditions. Call 1-403-395-3044 for America, with over 250 carriages, information or visit www.friendsofthebaru.ca wagons and sleighs, as well as Opening Day ~ Bar U Brunch Sunday, May 24 a working stable and carriage Enjoy opening day brunch at the Bar Leitch Collieries was one of the rides. It is located in Cardston, 45 U Cafe from 11am - 2 pm. Free cake most ambitious coal facilities in minutes east of Waterton. and coffee served at the Cookhouse. the history of the Crowsnest Pass. Family activities and special admission. Special Events in Waterton Bar U Chuckwagon Cook-Off Sunday, June 14 Waterton Wildflower Festival June 13 to 21 Come and judge the first annual Bar This event features wildflower guided walks, hikes and educational U Cook Off as competitors create programs; art exhibits; and workshops on their version of beef stew and biscuits photography, water colour painting and cooked over an open campfire. drawing Canada Day Tribute to the Percheron Horse Wednesday, July 1 Canada Day July 1st Free admission! Join us for an official flag raising ceremony before, touring Join our Canada Day activities in the ranch and taking part in the activities. Waterton Lakes National Park. Admission Cowboy Poetry, Music and Storytelling Sunday, July 12 to national parks is free on July 1! Welcome to Roundup Camp at Pekisko Creek for an afternoon of western Canada's Parks Day July 18 entertainment with local ranchers, poets, historians and musicians. Canada's Parks Day is a national day Polo at the Bar U Sunday, July 26 dedicated to showcasing the parks and Relive the Bar U's polo history as local cowboys play traditional players historic sites across the country. on the original Bar U polo field. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park Science & History Day Bar U Legends Sunday, August 2 August 6 Join us at roundup camp for an afternoon of storytelling featuring some of Glacier National Park (U.S.A.) the legends to have passed through the ranch gates. Hear the latest results from scientists carrying out research in the park. Friends of the Bar U Trail Ride Saturday, August 8 Waterton Lakes National Park - Annual General Meeting TBA Support the Friends of the Bar U Historic Ranch Association on their Join us for updates on the progress of Park Management Plan actions, annual day ride into original Bar U grazing lands. Ride your own horse or followed by informal discussion. This is an excellent opportunity to take a seat on a horse-drawn wagon. become involved in the upcoming Park Management Plan review. Light Old Time Ranch Rodeo Sunday, August 16 refreshments will be served. Join us for an exciting afternoon of Broke Horse Racing, Team Sorting, Waterton Wildlife Weekend September 19 to 21 Branding and Doctoring, and Wild Cow Milking. Waterton's wildlife are at their best in fall! This weekend features wildlife First Nations Day Sunday, August 30 events including wildlife viewing on foot, by horseback and boat cruises, Commemorate the contributions of Aboriginal people to ranching life, as well as photography, drawing and sketching sessions. Advance when natives took on traditional cowboy registration is recommended. Call 1-800-215-2395 for further information. roles. Chore Horse Competition Sunday, September 13 Waterton Natural Watch teamsters guide their teams through a timed course of skill testing History Association manoeuvers. The Waterton Natural History Association is a co-operating association that works closely with Parks Canada by helping inform the public about the natural wonders of the park and making suggestions to that federal agency to benefit visitors. Park Entry Fees We are a not-for-profit organization which was formed in 1983. While we strive to make money, we are different because our goal is to reinvest it Park Entrance Fees Daily Annual National in educational products and services such as publications, displays, group Local Pass natural history presentations and special events. Our two key fundraisers Adult $7.80* $39.20* $67.70* each summer are the Moonlight Cruise (August 13) and the Heritage Ball Senior $6.80* $34.30* $57.90* and silent auction (September 13). Youth (under 6 free) $3.90* $19.60* $33.30* Visit our free, small museum and gift shop in the townsite at 117 Family Group $19.60* $98.10* $136.40* * Fees are subject to change Waterton Avenue. We have information and advice on what to do in the park, books, maps, trail guides, and consignment art which is sold Park entry fees help pay for maintaining visitor facilities such as in support of our endeavors. Consider visiting our Crooked Creek roads, trails and picnic areas, and visitor services such as search Campground, six kilometres outside the park on Highway 5. and rescue, information and interpretation. For more information contact us at www.wnha.ca or by email at Separate entrance fees are charged at Glacier National Park, MT. [email protected]. Glacier National Park
"Just across the border, Glacier National Park forms the other halfofWateri^^^acier International Peace Park. Together, with Waterton Lakes, these two parks formed the world's first international peace park and continue to be models of cooperation, partnership, and ecosystem management."
Entrance Fees Park Regulations WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK HAS SEPARATE ENTRANCE FEES. It is your responsibility to know and respect park regulations. Violations are Single Vehicle Pass $25.00 punishable by fines up to $500.00 and/or six months in jail. Park regulations are Valid for 7 days. strictly enforced. Single Person Entry $12.00 • Pets must be on a leash, and are not permitted on trails or anywhere off main By foot, bicycle, or motorcycle for 7 days. tained roadways. Glacier National Park Pass $30.00 • Feeding or disturbing any wildlife is prohibited. Valid for one year from month of purchase. • It is illegal to remove any natural or cultural features including plants, rocks, Interagency Pass* $80.00 mushrooms, artifacts, driftwood, or anders. Valid for one year from month of purchase. • Park Rangers strictly enforce drinking and driving laws. Open containers of *The old Golden Age, Golden Eagle, and Golden Access Passes have been replaced alcohol in a motor vehicle are prohibited in the Park. DUI and Safety Check with a new series of interagency passes called the America the Beautiful - National points are occasionally conducted. Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass. • All food and utensils must be properly stored to protect wildlife. Special fees are charged for commercial tour vehicles. • Hunting and firearms are not allowed in Glacier.
Camping Hiking Camping is permitted only in desig Ranger-led hikes are available nated campgrounds. Campgrounds, throughout the park or your group can except Fish Creek and St. Mary, are enjoy Glacier's 700 miles of main available on a "first-come, first-served" tained trails on your own. Hikers need basis. Regulations are posted at each to assume individual responsibility for campground. Utility hookups are not planning their trips and hiking safely. provided. Ten group sites at Apgar, Read all the warnings and recommen and one each at Many Glacier and dations in this newspaper. Trail maps, Two Medicine Campgrounds, accom trail guides, topographic maps, and modate parties of 9-24 people. The fee field guides are available at park visitor is $50.00 for the first 9 campers and centers. The Trail ofthe Cedars and $5.00 per person, per night after that. Running Eagle Falls Nature Trails are The group campsite at St. Mary may be wheelchair accessible. Shuttle about to depart from the new Apgar Transit Center David Restivo reserved and is an additional $3.00. Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road Hiker-Biker Campsites This 50-mile road combines-both history and unparalleled scenery. While por Campsites for bicyclists and hikers are tions of the road remain open year-round, the higher sections only open after shared sites holding up to eight people. winter snows are plowed. Repairs to road damage, from a late fall storm in 2006, The fee is $5.00 per person. Hiker- may cause delays in addition to the ongoing rehabilitation of the Going-to-the- biker sites at Fish Creek and St. Mary Sun Road. Please allow additional driving time. are $8.00 per person. Vehicle Size Restrictions on the Going-to-the-Sun Road Backpacking Vehicles, and vehicle combinations, longer than 21 feet (including bumpers) Permits for backcountry camping are or wider than 8 feet (including mirrors), are prohibited between Avalanche required and are available at the listed Campground and Rising Sun. Vehicles over 10 feet in height may have difficulty locations. Permits are issued no more driving west from Logan Pass, due to rock overhangs. Stock trucks and trailers than 24 hours in advance and are not may access Packers Roost and Siyeh Bend. issued after 4:30pm. There is a $5.00 per person per night charge. Reserva tions are also available by mail or at Visiting Logan Pass Apgar and St. Mary. There is a $20.00 Frequently the parking lot at Logan Pass fills to capacity, forcing visitors to drive reservation fee. Visitors entering the on without stopping. The most congested times at Logan Pass are between backcountry at Goat Haunt or Belly 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. It is best to plan a visit for early morning or later in the River may obtain their permit at the afternoon. Consider using the free Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle. Shuttles run Waterton Visitor Reception Centre frequently throughout the day between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm. (credit cards only). Heavens Peak ill Hayden Concession operated tours also stop at Logan Pass.
Concession Services in Glacier National Park
RESTAURANTS BOAT TRIPS & RENTALS GRANITE PARK AND SPERRY CHALETS GUIDED BUS TOURS AND SHUTTLES Food service is available at: Eddie's Restaurant in Narrated boat cruises are offered at Lake McDon Granite Park Chalet provides rustic accommoda Narrated tours and shuttle services are offered by Apgar • Russells Fireside Dining Room and Jammer ald, Many Glacier, Rising Sun, and Two Medicine. tions that include rooms, beds, and a common Glacier Park Inc. For reservations contact: Joe's Restaurant & Pizzaria at Lake McDonald • Optional free guided hikes are offered on some kitchen. Guests provide their own sleeping bag, Glacier Park, Inc. - (406) 892-2525 Ptarmigan Dining Room and the Italian Garden Ris- trips. Boat and canoe rentals are also available. water, food, and cooking utensils. Optional bed torante in the Many Glacier Valley • Two Dog Flats For information contact: linen service is available. Sperry Chalet offers full Sun Tours offers interpretive tours from late May to Grill at Rising Sun • Snack Bar at Two Medicine Glacier Park Boat Company - (406) 257-2426 service rustic overnight accommodations and full mid-October. Tours highlight Blackfeet culture and Campstore. meal service, in a wilderness setting. history relating to Glacier National Park's natural LODGING For reservations contact: features. Tours begin from St. Mary, East Glacier, CAMPSTORES & GIFT SHOPS The Village Inn, Lake McDonald Lodge, Rising Sun Belton Chalets Inc. and Browning. For reservations contact: Groceries and gifts are available at: Eddie's Motor Inn, Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, and the Many (406) 387-5654 or 1 (888) 345-2649 Sun Tours - (800) 786-9220 or (406) 226-9220 Campstore, The Cedar Tree, Schoolhouse Gifts, Glacier Hotel are operated by Glacier Park, Inc. and the Montana House of Gifts at Apgar • Lake For reservations contact: HORSEBACK RIDES BACKCOUNTRY GUIDES McDonald Lodge Gift Shop and Campstore at Glacier Park, Inc. - (406) 892-2525 Horseback rides are provided by Swan Mountain Glacier Guides offer guided day hikes and back Lake McDonald • Many Glacier Hotel Gift Shop Outfitters at the following locations: Lake McDon packing trips into Glacier's backcountry for one to and Swiftcurrent Campstore in the Many Glacier For reservations at Apgar Village Lodge: ald Lodge, and Many Glacier Hotel. seven days. Custom guide service trips are avail Valley • Rising Sun Campstore at Rising Sun • Two Apgar Village Lodge - (406) 888-5484 For information contact: able. Camping equipment is available for rent at Medicine Campstore at Two Medicine. Swan Mountain Outfitters - (877) 888-5557 their West Glacier office. For reservations contact: Glacier Guides - (406) 387-5555 or (800) 521 -RAFT
# lanaging th Charlie Brown Fern Summit Lake is a brisk 45-minute hike from the trailhead of the Park's Carthew-Alderson trail. The trail is one of Canada's great day hikes, with spectacular vistas of mountains, canyons, crystal-blue lakes and rugged forests. Oh, and several million individual Bolander's quillwort plants. But whereas most hikers arriving at Summit Lake might notice a bunch of "grass" in a shallow lake, Brunton sees a tale of natural grit and determination as extraordinary as any Rocky Mountain saga. The quillworts are the only plants that grow in most of Summit Lake. Few others can survive the harsh 60-day growing season here at 2,000-metres elevation. The lake's winter coat of ice doesn't melt until mid-July, and freeze-up grips the lake by mid-September. Not only is the growing season brief, but the lake is a watery desert, low in nutrients, high in sand and salt. Yet for the quillworts, Summit Down the basement stairs, past the Ottawa Senators hockey posters Lake is an oasis amidst hostile taped to the wall, Dan Brunton opens one of several tall, fire-proof metal surroundings. cabinets to reveal a green goldmine. At first glance, it's a treasure trove To make a go of it in this extreme environment, a quillwort works 24/7 only a handful of fans can fully appreciate - North America's largest when conditions are right, says Brunton. It's one of only a dozen groups private collection of quillworts. of North American plants - the rest are true desert species - that absorb These aren't the showy stars of the plant world, such as ornate orchids the energy from sunlight during the day, but save the chemical process of or colourful violets. Quillworts are ferns. And even at this, they're only photosynthesis for the night. It's a routine that conserves water in desert ferns to the expert eye. To the untrained observer, a quillwort looks more plants and enables the quillwort to work round-the-clock. like grass. A single blade of grass. "It's a good strategy for making it in an area where no plant has the "They really are the Charlie Brown ferns of the plant world," laughs right to survive," says Brunton. Brunton. The next closest population of Bolander's quillworts is 30 kilometres But just as there's something endearing about Charlie Brown's scrawny south, across the U.S.-Canada border in Montana. Brunton's best guess is Christmas tree, so, too, have quillworts made their way into Brunton's that the Waterton quillworts initially hitched a ride north to Summit Lake heart. And for the past 15 years, Brunton and his wife and son have as spores on, or in, the bodies of migrating loons or Canada geese. crisscrossed North America in their RV in search of quillworts. "It's amazing to think about how they've moved around, and why "Instead of going to beaches and casinos, we go to quillwort hot spots," they're in one place and not another," says Brunton, noting that quillworts he says, noting that to make the whole family happy, they've also visited have been around for an numerous quilting stores - satisfying his wife's passion - and bookstores amazing 250 million years. to fuel his son's voracious reading habit. In his basement quillwort Whereas most hikers arriving at Summit Lake might sanctuary, Brunton carefully replaces the dried notice a hunch of "grass" in a shallow lake, Brunton sees specimen of BolandHl^S" ' a tale of natural grit and determination as any Rocky quillwort and takes a live Mountain Saga. potted quillwort of another variety from a window These fern holidays have been more adventure-filled than one might ledge and holds it up — a think. The Bruntons have raced to stay ahead of a hurricane on the simple plant with fantastic Carolina coast, quickly collecting quillworts before the plants could be stories that are keeping obliterated by the wind and waves. And they've travelled to an enviable Brunton on the road. variety of Canada's National Parks, from Gros Morne in Newfoundland to Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island, in their quest to find samples of the about two-dozen quillwort species that can be found in Canada. Take only Pictures Back at home, Brunton painstakingly mounts his finds onto custom- made sheets of "ridiculously expensive" acid-free paper. He's now tm Cmmd&*
Didymo, or "rock snot", spreading didymo from stream to stream. However, it can also is a freshwater algae spread on fishing gear, boats, trailers and even pets. Help prevent the that looks like wet toilet introduction and spread of didymo with three steps: paper and feels like wet OfflBOg, C11AM fc DKY cotton wool. It attaches 1. Oteciu: remove any obvious clumps of algae from boots, waders, to rocks in streams. It can fishing gear and boats. be beige, brown or white, 2. Cleans soak or spray all surfaces for at least one minute in a 2% but not green. Didymo bleach solution. Use one cup of bleach with water added to make 10 is capable of growing litres of solution. into large mats on stream 3. ~Dvp If cleaning is not practical, wait 48 hours after your gear is dry bottoms, choking out fish, to the touch before using it in other waters. invertebrates and other plants. It is not harmful If you see what you think is didymo in Waterton, please write down to humans and does not the location and if you can, take a digital photo. Then contact: make water unfit to drink. It has appeared at a few sites in Waterton Barb Johnston, Conservation Biologist, Waterton Lakes National Park, and we are researching it this year to prevent its spread. at (403) 859-5182, or e-mail [email protected] Felt-soled wading boots are believed to be the major cause of
10 Box 200, Waterton Park, Alberta TOK 2M0* 403-859-5133 www.pc4c.ca/wate1ton Your Fees At Work Visitors Benefit from Federal Viewpoints, parkways, picnic shelters, exhibits, washrooms and less obvious water, electrical On March 7, the Honourable Jim and natural gas systems are all Prentice (Canada's Environment funded by your park entry or Minister, Minister responsible for camping fees. Fees also support Parks Canada and Minister re visitor services, interpretive sponsible for Southern Alberta) theatre programs, guided walks, announced several infrastructure search and rescue teams and improvements in Waterton Lakes maintenance crews. National Park. Some projects to look for this The January 2009 Budget - Canada's Economic Action Plan - supports year: Canada's national parks with $75 million, over two years, for improve ments and enhancements at Parks Canada's visitor facilities, such as • Electricity and a new washroom / showerhouse in G loop in the campgrounds and visitor centres, as well as an additional $75 million to Townsite Campground Parks Canada for upgrades to National Historic Sites. • New privies at Lost Horse picnic area and at Chief Mountain Projects announced for Waterton Lakes National Park could total up Overlook to $9.4 million, and include repairs to the Belly River Bridge on Chief • Protection of the Red Rock Parkway from stream erosion Mountain Highway, improvements in the Blakiston Valley and Red Rock Canyon day use area, and new washroom facilities at the community a Sin .clilO] playground.
Waterton Lakes National Park's new management plan will build on our commitment to ecological integrity by learning more about our visitors - who they are, why they are coming to the park and what experiences, Repmks to the Belly River Bridge will extend the life ofthe bridge services and facilities they would like. Visitors play a critical role in 6y twenty-five years. The bridge is located on the Chief 'Mmmimn helping us keep Waterton's ecosystem healthy. By learning more about Highway, a popular rmite with visitors, and cormecis Waterton Lakes them, we can craft programs that help them get the most out of their visit with Glacier National P&trk in Montana, USA. (Over 35 per cent of to the park, while keeping it healthy for future generations to enjoy. Wmierim Lakes visitors every year originate m the United States.) We also want to communicate with Canadians who may not visit the park. We will expand our external relations program, including 'The work w3! begin in fall 2009 and ml! he completed in. fiscal year education programs and special events. We will also improve tools like 20100X11, Please expect same delays along this mute through part if the website and use new media to reach Canadians in the their homes and communities. We also want to develop and maintain meaningful relationships with our neighbours. Twenty years from now, what features and experiences will people value the most in the park? How can Parks Canada reach Canadians at home and in their What Do You Think? communities? 'ode in with your opinions and ideas on our TIMELINE •website, • Information gathering, public participation and analysis is underway (spring 2009). md us your name and e-mail address and give us your '•""**"l3fSft maltalgleflrfieWpf^^ the summer 2009. Back mt'fhePark Mandgetneni Plans ofWaterton Wakes, • Plans finalized in fall 2009. ianfff Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, Glacier and Revetstoke • Submit the updated plans for approval and tabling in Parliament in National Parks, winter 2009/2010. Stay or Go? rucJ ir iH What do you think? Should the their vehicles. The study showed from vehicles, making for a safer bison herd and their paddock stay that when there were no vehicles experience for everyone. or go? present, males spent more time After much exploration, Parks sparring and mating and tended to Canada decided a free-roaming Moving the Akamina spar closer to the road. They were bison herd in the park is not also more likely to cross the road, feasible because the benefits to the Trailhead. and they spent more time feeding park's ecological health and visitor and resting. experience were not significant The Akamina Trailhead is located We would like to protect the elk enough relative to the cost. What do you think? Should we close in a vehicle pullout that is often while allowing visitors to enjoy The question now is whether we the east end of the Marquis Hole not big enough for all the vehicles this incredible display. If we closed should keep the herd at all? Road in the fall to protect elk during parked there. Vehicles spill out on part of the road during the fall rut, The paddock drive is very the rut? to the roadsides, creating unsafe it may provide the elk with the popular because it is the only way Park visitors have a unique traffic congestion and crushing space they need, while still allowing visitors have an opportunity to opportunity to watch hundreds of vegetation. visitors the opportunity to watch safely see bison close-up. elk during the rut. The elk gather on We are looking for solutions. them. Do you have other ideas? The main argument for the Blakiston Fan, bugling, sparring One possibility is to move the removing the paddock is that it and forming harems. Waterton is Proposed Pathway Akamina Trailhead to Cameron fences off an area of native fescue becoming famous for this incredible Lake. This would require a new grass, preventing other wildlife display, and many visitors come parking area, and a new trail like elk and deer from using this to watch and take photographs. linked to the existing Akamina increasingly scarce habitat. Another However, visitor numbers increased Pass Trail. In winter, this would important consideration is cost: the to the point where there can be 15-20 create a new cross country ski loop. paddock requires approximately vehicles at a time on the Marquis The old Akamina Trailhead would $150,000 to $250,000 of maintenance Hole Road. The elk are very active be reclaimed. and repairs. and visitors often move their Before we move ahead with vehicles, and get in and out of them, this idea, we want to know if the to get the best view. People became public supports it. What do you concerned that the traffic may What do you think about a new think about relocating the Akamina negatively affect the elk. In response, bike / pedestrian lane on the Trailhead to Cameron Lake? Can Parks Canada worked with the Entrance Parkway from the Park you think of alternative solutions? University of Alberta to study the gate to the Waterton Townsite? effects of sightseers on elk behaviour. The Entrance Parkway is a The results indicate elk are busy highway with very narrow negatively affected by traffic, as well shoulders. A new lane would as people getting in and out of separate pedestrians and cyclists Stephen Harrington 11 WATERTON LAKES /NATIONAL PARK
LEGEND Highway "••• Secondary road Accomodation Campground Backcountry campground |A| Picnic area 4k*
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Pulling in the Nets Anna Lee-Carswell Deepwater sculpin Anna Lee-Carswell Dave Romanuk Lake Trout - Friend or Foe The most famous fish caught in bull trout. After 14,000 years of How can the same fish be fine in one one dominated by bull and westslope Waterton came out of Upper Waterton dominance, the Peace Park's greatest lake and not in another? lust as with cutthroat trout to one dominated by lake Lake on Tuly 3,1920. Like most fish native aquatic predator could be lost other animals and plants, wildlife are trout. This change has consequences not stories, there are many different versions from the park's west-side waters! ideally suited to the specific habitats and only for fish, but also for anglers. Other of this tale. In one version, Mr. Hunter places they normally live in. They are in wildlife like loons, otters and eagles, snuck out to go fishing and left his wife Glacier National Park is particularly balance with the other life living there. that depend on native fish, will also be behind. He thought that she would ruin concerned about this in Quartz Lake, Non-native species upset that balance, affected. his chances of catching a big fish. Later in the North Fork Flathead River often because there are no other species in the day, Mrs. Hunter caught (without drainage. Native fish species in the to keep them in check, as is the case Glacier National Park is currently assistance) a 23.4 kg (51.6 lbs) lake trout! Quartz Lake system include bull trout, with the native wildlife. proposing a project to evaluate the classified under the US. Endangered status of lake trout and investigate Lake trout are native to the Waterton Species Act as "Threatened", westslope In 2004, the park and U.S. Fish and ways to remove them. Options they are Lakes and are highly sought after cutthroat trout, a Montana state species Wildlife Service constructed a fish looking at include: relying on current by anglers. This is not the case on of special concern, and mountain passage barrier, at the outlet of Middle fishing regulations (no limit for lake the western side of Waterton-Glacier whitefish. Until the recent discovery Quartz Lake to prevent non-native fish trout) to control the population, using International Peace Park. There, lake of lake trout in Quartz Lake, it was the migration up the stream. Before this a motorized boat to deploy large nets trout are an aggressive 'alien' species largest remaining natural lake system project was completed, lake trout were to remove lake trout, or using a non- that threatens to eliminate the native supporting bull trout in the Columbia discovered in Quartz Lake. Unless lake motorized watercraft to conduct hook- fish through competition and predation, River Basin with an intact grouping of trout can be successfully removed, the and-line and small netting operations. including the declining and threatened native fish species. fish community will likely shift from
What is This? These tunnels were installed in Waterton creating a suitable environment for them Lakes National Park in the spring of to enter and pass safely under the road. 2008 to reduce vehicle-caused deaths of long-toed salamanders and other small Salamanders may be small, but they wildlife like tiger salamanders, western are not insignificant! They are a top toads and red-sided garter snakes. predator in their ecosystem. All plants, animals and natural processes are To get to their breeding site at Linnet interconnected and important to the Lake, salamanders migrate across the health of the Peace Park. The experience road near the park's Information Centre and research from this project will help on humid and wet nights, so many of conserve amphibian communities in these small critters were unknowingly other places where roads affect their crushed by passing vehicles. These populations. specially designed tunnels have slots that allow air, moisture and light inside, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park World Heritage Site
To: Cardston and Lethbridge
.Red Rock Canyon
All Services Carway Trail Creek Customs (closed) PBBB . Jpiief Mountain Customs (seasonal) Customs ^ j Roosville Customs is west of the park on Highway 93, north of Whitefish, MT 6 mi 7.2 km
Park Location
~— Paved Roads VV Campground H| Nature Trail arias Pass =====Unpave d Roads fR] Food Service M Picnic Area Distances from Waterton ~o Rivers and Lakes •RPJ Horseback fPS Ranger Station/ LttJ Rides i.Ul Warden Office St. Mary - 43 mL/69km to f West Glacier - 95 mL/l 52km Boat Cruise/ M Lod&n& EJ Visitor Center/ B Boat Rental \WWW\M Information Centre Lethbridge - 81 mi./130km Restroom/ ES Recycle n Wheelchair 1 via the Going-to-the-Sun Road D Pit toilet HJ Aluminum and Plastic B_3 Accessible Facilities
m Crossing the Border? Starting June 1 st, all travelers crossing the border must present documents that are Travel To, From, and Through Goat Haunt Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant. Those documents include: Travel between Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada and the Goat Haunt Ranger • U.S. Citizens must present a U.S. Passport, Enhanced Drivers License*, U.S. Station, either by boat or by foot on the Waterton Lake Trail, will require an official Passport Card, or NEXUS Card government issued photo identification card for U.S. or Canadian citizens or • U.S. Resident Aliens must present a U.S. Resident Alien Card permanent residents. All others must carry a valid passport. • Canadian citizen must present a Canadian Passport, Enhanced Drivers License*, or NEXUS Card Persons seeking to travel beyond the Goat Haunt Ranger Station into the United • Citizens from countries other than Canada or the United States must present a States must present documents that are (WHTI) compliant. (See the list to the left) valid passport and a current T94 or an I-94W 1-94 forms are available at the Port of Entry for $6.00 U.S. currency and all major The Goat Haunt Port of Entry will operate between 10:30 a.m., and 5:00 p.m. No credit cards are accepted. Canadian currency is not accepted. entry into the United States past the Goat Haunt Ranger Station will be authorized • For a list of States and Provinces who currently issue Enhanced Drivers Licenses, outside of the port's hours of operation. Hikers traveling northbound into Canada please visit http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/EDL_map.html from the United States are required to contact the Chief Mountain Port of Entry upon their arrival at the Waterton townsite. Information on contacting the Port of Special restrictions apply when crossing the border with pets, defensive sprays, Entry is available at the Waterton Lakes Visitor Centre or the Waterton Station of the alcohol, firewood, and purchases. All firearms must be declared. For more Royal Canadian Mounted Police. information on crossing from the USA to Canada, call 1-800-320-0063; and if crossing from Canada to the USA, call 1-406-889-3865. .
Border Crossing Dates and Times Roosville open 24 hours Piegan/Carway 7 a.m. to 11p.m. Chief Mountain west ofthe park on Highway 93, north of east of the park at the joining of U.S. Highway 5/15 to 5/31 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Whitefish, MT and south of Fernie, B.C. 89 with Alberta Highway 2 6/1 to 9/7 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 9/8 to 9/30 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. October 1 closed for season