Lethbridge to Waterton Park Loop
Route Details: In the Rocky Mountains southwest of the city of Lethbridge lies Waterton National Park which is a truly stunning place to visit on a motorcycle. This route will take you from the prairie high into the alpine and back on some of the best roads in Southern Alberta.
Head south from Lethbridge on Highway #5 through the towns of Magrath, Spring Coulee and Cardston. If you forgot to get fuel before leaving for the ride Cardston is your best option before getting to Waterton. By the time you reach Muskinonge Overlook at the headwaters of the Waterton River you will have crossed the St. Mary and Belly Rivers and Lee Creek, this overlook is a great spot to grab a quick photo before turning south and venturing into Waterton National Park where you will need a parks pass to cover you for the length of your visit. Once you arrive in the park your options are endless. I would highly advise taking the Red Rock Parkway to Red Rock canyon and Blakiston falls. Both the canyon and falls require very little walking to see and are a perfect way to spend a few minutes off of your bike. Another must visit place is Cameron Lake which is accessed on the Akamina Parkway (Range Road 10A) which is a nice road leading to this alpine lake and another perfect spot to stretch your legs. And of course there is the townsite of Waterton where you will find some interesting eateries and pubs to satify your cravings and don’t miss the Prince of Wales Hotel which overlooks both the upper and middle Waterton Lakes and is another awesome spot to get some good photos. After enjoying your time in this special place instead of returning the way you came take Highway 6 towards Pincher Creek turning East on Highway 505 riding over the dam at the Waterton Reservoir to Highway 2. Take Highway 2 to Standoff turning on Highway 509 which winds it’s way north and deposits you just west of Lethbridge on Highway 3 that will take you back into town. Both on the way to and from Waterton there are many other side excursions to take, if you still have time, to some cool small towns, communities and other attractions along the route. This could easily be done in a day or turned into a perfect overnighter.
Highlights: Maskinonge Overlook, Red Rock Canyon/Blakiston Falls, Waterton Lakes, Cameron Lake
Local Businesses:
KM/Hours of Riding: 320 km, 3.75 hours riding
