Day Trip to Waterton Lakes NP,Prince of Wales Hotel from Calgary

Introduction

If you’re considering a day trip from Calgary to Waterton Lakes National Park, this tour could be a solid choice. Designed for those who want to experience the park’s stunning scenery without the hassle of planning every detail, it offers a balance of guided sightseeing and free time. Whether you’re keen on snapping photos, seeing the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel, or enjoying a boat cruise, this trip covers some of Waterton’s best bits.

Two things we really like about this tour are the scenic stops and the convenience of having transportation and guides taken care of. It’s also nice that it’s a full-day experience, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and relax. But, a thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can be affected by weather and road conditions, which might lead to some delays or changes. This tour tends to suit travelers who value guided exploration and want an efficient way to see Waterton’s highlights in one day.

If you’re someone who’s eager to see breathtaking landscapes and doesn’t mind a long day in a van, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, historic sites, and boat cruises, though it’s worth noting that some attractions—like the hotel—don’t include admission fees. Overall, it’s a convenient way to tick off a UNESCO World Heritage site with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: The tour provides air-conditioned vehicle travel, making the long day more pleasant.
• Guided Experience: A bilingual guide (English/Mandarin) helps enrich your understanding of the sights.
• Variety of Stops: From natural wonders to historic hotels and boat cruises, it offers a well-rounded day.
• Weather Dependency: The schedule may shift due to weather or road conditions, so flexibility helps.
• Cost-Benefit: At roughly $106, it packs in a lot—just be aware that some attractions like the hotel or boat cruise are not included in the price.
• Booking Notice: Most travelers book about 52 days in advance, so plan early if you’re set on this trip.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out from Calgary

The day kicks off early, with pick-up options at either the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel NE or Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown. The early start, around 8:00 am, means you’ll be on the road before most of Calgary’s morning rush, aiming to maximize your time at Waterton. The transportation is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, which is vital considering how long the drive can be—roughly 9 to 10 hours round-trip.

While some guests, like Susan, found the pickup process slightly confusing at first—mentioning that Westar Travel was not immediately recognizable—it’s worth noting that the tour clearly states pick-up points and timings. Just arriving a little early helps, and having clarity on the meeting location makes everything smoother.

The Scenic Drive and Arrival at Waterton

Once on the road, the journey itself becomes part of the experience. The route from Calgary introduces you to Alberta’s changing landscapes, transitioning from prairie plains to the majestic foothills of the Rockies. The ultimate destination, Waterton Lakes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like a hidden gem. It’s where the prairies meet the mountains, creating a remarkable contrast that we find endlessly fascinating.

Stop 1: Waterton Lakes National Park

The first major stop is the park itself, where you’ll have around an hour to explore. Here, the beauty of the landscape really hits home—sparkling lakes, rugged peaks, and a sense of tranquility. The highlight is often just taking a moment to soak in the views, capturing photos, and feeling the vastness of the Rockies. Since admission is free, you can wander at your own pace, perhaps taking a short walk or simply enjoying the scenery.

Stop 2: Prince of Wales Hotel

One of the most iconic sights in Waterton is the Prince of Wales Hotel. Built in 1927, this historic hotel perched on a hilltop offers breathtaking views of Waterton Lake and the surrounding mountains. While the tour doesn’t include an overnight stay, a one-hour stop here gives you time to admire its timeless architecture and snap some photos. The hotel’s charm combined with the panoramic backdrop makes it a favorite photo opportunity.

Some guests have noted the hotel’s historic ambiance as a highlight, though the tour doesn’t include a guided interior visit or meal. The outside views alone are worth the stop, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light hits just right.

Stop 3: Waterton Shoreline Cruise

Next, you get to experience the Waterton Shoreline Cruise, a 1.5-hour boat ride across Waterton Lake, the deepest in the Canadian Rockies. This cruise offers a different perspective—gliding past rugged cliffs, spotting wildlife, and appreciating the lake’s clarity. Since the cruise isn’t included in the tour price, it’s an extra expense, but many find it well worth the cost. The boat provides a peaceful way to connect with the landscape and see parts of the park only accessible by water.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the scenery from the water leaves a lasting impression—some travelers mention that the views are simply stunning, making it a highlight of the day.

Stop 4: Cameron Falls

A short 15-minute stop at Cameron Falls allows for a quick walk and some well-deserved rest. The falls themselves are a classic sight—mountain water cascading over ancient rocks into a basin below. It’s a peaceful spot to snap a few photos and appreciate the natural forces that shaped this landscape over billions of years. No admission fee here, so it’s just a quick nature break.

Return to Calgary

After a full day filled with scenic stops and memorable sights, it’s time to head back to Calgary. The return journey is around the same length as the drive to Waterton, so expect to arrive back in Calgary by evening. The guide may provide some final insights or stories along the way, helping to round out the experience.

How Valuable Is the Tour?

Given the price of around $106 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money—transport, a guide, and multiple scenic stops. The fact that most travelers book it about 52 days in advance suggests good popularity and planning. Keep in mind that the attractions like the Prince of Wales Hotel and boat cruise aren’t included in the price, so budgeting for those extras is wise if you want to fully enjoy the day.

The guide’s bilingual service (English and Mandarin) adds a nice touch, especially for international travelers who want insights into the park’s features. The group size, capped at 55, means it’s not a tiny tour, but still manageable for a friendly atmosphere.

Notable Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, weather can impact your experience. As one reviewer pointed out, delays or changes are possible if conditions are poor. It’s advisable to dress in layers and bring a rain jacket just in case. Also, some guests found the early start and long day a bit tiring, but most agree it’s a worthwhile way to see Waterton if time is limited.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Waterton Lakes without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and enjoy a variety of scenic experiences—from lakes and waterfalls to historic hotels and boat rides. Nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in UNESCO sites will find plenty to love here.

Since the tour isn’t focused on family activities or kids’ entertainment, it’s better suited for older children or adults. If you’re short on time and want to tick off a major National Park in one day with ease, this option is quite convenient.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 9 to 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, making for a full but manageable day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins with a pick-up at either the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel NE or Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown and returns to the same locations.

Is the boat cruise included in the price?
No, the Waterton Shoreline Cruise requires an additional fee, but many travelers find it worth the extra cost for the perspective it offers.

What should I bring on the tour?
Weather can change quickly, so pack layers, a rain jacket, and your camera. Since some attractions have no admission fee, bring cash or cards if you plan to purchase souvenirs or pay for extras.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy nature and long rides will likely enjoy the day. It’s a full-day trip, so consider their stamina.

Are meals included?
No, meals aren’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch during the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The schedule may be changed or canceled if the weather is poor. The tour provider recommends purchasing travel insurance and being flexible with plans.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to see Waterton Lakes National Park without the stress of driving and planning, this guided day trip offers a solid, scenic, and educational experience. The stops at the Prince of Wales Hotel, Cameron Falls, and the boat cruise provide diverse ways to enjoy the park’s natural beauty. The large group size and bilingual guide make it accessible, while the included transportation takes the hassle out of logistics.

You’ll love the stunning vistas, the chance to relax with a guide, and the variety of sights packed into one day. That said, if you’re after an intimate or more flexible experience, or if you want to include the boat cruise and hotel stay in your budget, you might look at other options. But for an efficient, enjoyable introduction to Waterton, it’s a tour that delivers quite well.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply want a memorable day exploring one of Canada’s most beautiful parks, this trip can be a rewarding choice—just be prepared for a full day, and plan for some weather surprises.

Hope this helps you decide if this Waterton Lakes day trip aligns with your travel style. Safe travels and enjoy the incredible views!