Cool Destinations
Top Alberta activities
Top Alberta landmarks
Beyond Alberta
Alberta trip ideas
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Top Alberta landmark tours
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore Canada tours
  • Alberta travel guides
  • Alberta travel calendar
Rewards
Rewards
Wishlist
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Cool Rewards My Rewards
$0.00
Cool Rewards My Rewards
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates

Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option

27 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 27 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Alberta, Canada
Book online or call us
Chat now

from $289.49 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option Image 1
Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option Image 2
Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option Image 3
Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option Image 4
Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option Image 5

Loading Options
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.
Add to Wishlist
10 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Offered in: English

Overview

Skip the crowds and go beyond Banff into Alberta’s most dramatic and lesser-known landscapes. Travel in a small group with a **local guide whose family has called this region home for generations**, unlocking places and stories most visitors never experience.

Journey through towering canyons, hidden waterfalls, rugged mountain passes, and legendary scenery near the Crowsnest Pass—a wild corridor known for its raw beauty and frontier history. Along the way, pass bison paddocks, prime wildlife areas, and sweeping viewpoints where eagles soar and the landscape feels untouched.

Explore scenic backroads, secret trails, and unforgettable lookouts. Hear stories of Indigenous heritage, early settlers, and mountain legends, plus eerie ghost tales from the historic Prince of Wales Hotel.

Cruise the iconic Cowboy Trail, stop at the world-famous Okotoks Erratic, and enjoy endless photo opportunities in places most travelers never see.

Wilder experience—far beyond the ordinary Banff tour.

What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Complimentary hot chocolate
  • A guaranteed good time!
  • Meals
See 8 moreSee 7 more

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

Okotoks Erratic - The Big Rock

Stop 1: Okotoks Erratic – A Prehistoric Introduction Start your day with a visit to the Okotoks Erratic, one of Canada’s most impressive glacial features. This massive boulder, weighing an estimated 16,000 tons, was transported by glaciers during the last Ice Age over 10,000 years ago. As you approach the erratic, you’ll be struck by its sheer size and the incredible history that it represents—this rock traveled more than 100 kilometers from its origin in the Rocky Mountains. Standing next to this geological marvel, you’ll feel a deep connection to the land’s ancient past. There’s a small interpretive center nearby where you can learn more about the erratic's significance and the area's glacial history before heading on your way.
Read more

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Longview (pass by)

Stop 2: Scenic Drive Down the Cowboy Trail After getting your fill of ancient history, hop in the car and head down the Cowboy Trail, a scenic drive that winds through the breathtaking foothills of the Rockies. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of an old Western as towering peaks rise against the sky, while wide-open grasslands stretch out around you. This route is famous for its dramatic landscapes and opportunities for wildlife sightings—keep your eyes peeled for bison, elk, and the occasional pronghorn antelope roaming across the fields. The trail also offers plenty of picturesque pullouts where you can stop, stretch your legs, and soak in the views. It’s the perfect way to get your first taste of the wild beauty of Waterton Lakes National Park.
Read more

Waterton

Bison Viewing and Wildlife Encounters As you continue along the Cowboy Trail, the bison herds of Waterton will begin to make their appearance. These majestic creatures, with their shaggy coats and massive frames, are often spotted grazing peacefully on the park's vast plains. Take time to pull over and observe them—this is one of the best places in Canada to view bison in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you might also spot black bears, red foxes, or mule deer. Wildlife sightings are one of the highlights of Waterton, and you’ll likely have the chance to see some of the most iconic species of the
Read more

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Waterton Lakes National Park

Stop 4: Prince of Wales Hotel – Historical Charm with a View Next, head to one of the most iconic landmarks in Waterton: the Prince of Wales Hotel. Perched high on a hill overlooking Waterton Lake, this historic hotel, built in 1927, offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Its British-inspired architecture adds to the charm of the park, making it one of the most photographed spots in the area. Take a leisurely stroll around the hotel grounds and enjoy the incredible vistas. You can also head inside for a snack or a drink in the dining room, where you’ll find a cozy atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake below.
Read more

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Waterton Lakes National Park

Stop 5: Bertha Falls Hike – A Hidden Gem After taking in the wildlife, it’s time to stretch your legs on a hike to Bertha Falls. This 2.8-mile (4.5 km) trail takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of towering peaks as you make your way to the waterfall. The trail is shaded and relatively moderate, with the sounds of rustling leaves and rushing water providing a peaceful soundtrack. Once you reach the falls, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of water tumbling over rocks into a serene pool below. The sight and sound of the falls, surrounded by the beauty of the wilderness, is a perfect moment to pause and take it all in.
Read more

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Waterton Lakes National Park

Stop 6: The Red Rocks of Waterton – A Natural Wonder After soaking in the historical beauty of the Prince of Wales Hotel, it’s time to visit one of Waterton’s most unique natural features: the Red Rocks Canyon. The canyon, with its vibrant red rock formations, is a geological marvel that dates back millions of years. The red cliffs and the turquoise waters of the creek below create an almost otherworldly scene, making it one of the most scenic spots in the park. A short trail takes you through the canyon and along the creek, offering plenty of opportunities for photos. This stunning location is also a great spot for a brief dip in the cool water, a refreshing way to cool off on a warm day.
Read more

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Waterton Lakes National Park

Stop 7: Historic Walking Tour & Lunch in Waterton Townsite After exploring the natural wonders, head into Waterton Townsite, the park's small but charming town center. This area is full of local cafés, restaurants, and shops, all with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Grab a bite at one of the town’s cozy bistros or eateries, where you can enjoy a meal made with fresh, local ingredients. After lunch, take a leisurely self-guided historic walking tour to learn more about the area’s early settlers, the development of the park, and its rich Indigenous history. You’ll pass by historic buildings, some of which date back to the 1920s, and gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s cultural significance.
Read more

1 minute • Admission Ticket Free

Waterton Lakes National Park

Stop 8: Waterton Lake Boat Cruise – The Grand Finale To cap off your day, hop aboard a Waterton Lake Boat Cruise. The boat cruise is the perfect way to experience the grandeur of the park’s landscapes from a different perspective. As the boat glides across the crystal-clear waters of Upper Waterton Lake, you’ll be treated to views of towering cliffs, lush forests, and waterfalls. The calm waters are also home to a variety of wildlife, and you may catch a glimpse of otters, birds, or
Read more

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Show 7 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Please be aware that the duration of the tour as a whole includes travel time.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (MDT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-404619P2

Traveler Photos

See more
See more

Reviews

5.00
27 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 27 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

5 stars
27
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

Loading Options
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.
Alberta Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

2 Day Guided Tour in Banff National Park
4.9 (14)

2 Day Guided Tour in Banff National Park

This two-day bucket list tour is more than just a trip—it's an immersive journey into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. From tranquil lakes that...

2 days • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation
2 days • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation
2 days • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation
4.9 (14)
from
$245.23
Grotto Canyon Majestic Ice Walk tour from Banff, Calgary, Canmore
5.0 (5)

Grotto Canyon Majestic Ice Walk tour from Banff, Calgary, Canmore

Step into a winter wonderland on this unforgettable Grotto Canyon Ice Walk. Follow a frozen creek bed through narrow, towering canyon walls as you venture...

3 to 4 hours • Free Cancellation
3 to 4 hours • Free Cancellation
3 to 4 hours • Free Cancellation
5.0 (5)
from
$111.95
Kananaskis River Rafting Adventure
4.9 (139)

Kananaskis River Rafting Adventure

Enjoy a beautiful day rafting down the picturesque Kananaskis River in Alberta, Canada. This day trip from Banff or Canmore will get you into a...

4 hours • Free Cancellation
4 hours • Free Cancellation
4 hours • Free Cancellation
4.9 (139)
from
$110.98
Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Shuttle | End of Summer Seat Sale!
5.0 (9)

Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Shuttle | End of Summer Seat Sale!

BEST SELLING. Over 6,698+ Real Satisfied Travellers. Only .001% is hard to please | Book Us! Skip the crowds and secure your spot at Banff’s...

6 hours • Free Cancellation
6 hours • Free Cancellation
6 hours • Free Cancellation
5.0 (9)
from
$37.25

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Banff Gondola Ride Admission
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (2,754)

Banff Gondola Ride Admission

Soar up Sulphur Mountain for a bird's-eye view of Banff National Park and six mountain ranges. Walk the boardwalk, explore the interpretive building, dine at...

1 to 4 hours
1 to 4 hours
1 to 4 hours
4.8 (2,754)
$71.90
$70.90
Maligne Lake Cruise
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (525)

Maligne Lake Cruise

Declared the “Best Boat Cruise in Canada” by 8 million Reader’s Digest subscribers, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other. Join us...

1 hour 30 minutes
1 hour 30 minutes
1 hour 30 minutes
4.8 (525)
from
$88.14
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff
4.9 (3,560)

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff

Best of the Best 2026 — Tripadvisor | #1 Tour in Canada | Top 1% Worldwide This is the highest recognition Tripadvisor gives, awarded to...

8 to 10 hours • Free Cancellation
8 to 10 hours • Free Cancellation
8 to 10 hours • Free Cancellation
4.9 (3,560)
from
$76.22
Jasper Wildlife & Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise
4.8 (618)

Jasper Wildlife & Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise

Discover why the Maligne Valley is a must-see in Jasper National Park. On this breathtaking 6-hour tour, enjoy a short scenic walk along the shoreline...

6 hours • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation
6 hours • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation
6 hours • Hotel pickup offered • Free Cancellation
4.8 (618)
from
$159.65

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Destinations customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (MDT).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Snacks.
  • Complimentary hot chocolate.
  • A guaranteed good time!.
  • Glacier water refills.
  • Small group size.
  • Public transportation.
  • All Fees and Taxes.
  • warm blankets in my comfy van.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Parking Fees.
  • Local and Certified Wilderness first aid trained guides.
The following is NOT included:
  • Meals.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Hidden Gem: The Ultimate Waterton Adventure & Overnight option will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Destinations. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024

What's Included

Activity name

  • Snacks
  • Complimentary hot chocolate
  • A guaranteed good time!
  • Glacier water refills
  • Small group size
  • Public transportation
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Warm blankets in my comfy van
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Parking Fees
  • Local and Certified Wilderness first aid trained guides
  • Meals

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Please be aware that the duration of the tour as a whole includes travel time.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
  • Operated by a business

Protecting you

Activity name

For your protection and stress-free bookings, use our secure platform to pay for bookings. Rewild Adventures

Report Product Issue

Activity name

Language
Currency

Site Settings

Activity name

Currency

Activity name

Lowest Price Guarantee

Activity name

We guarantee the lowest price on all the tours available to book on our site. We'll refund the difference if you find the exact tour cheaper online until 48 hours before your tour starts.

We Make It Easy!

Gather your information

Locate your Cool Destinations Booking Number and the proof of the lower price you found.

Send it to us

Email priceguarantee@mybookings.zendesk.com with the documents, your name, and your home address.

We'll review

We'll review your materials and get in touch as soon as possible.

Receive your refund

If everything checks out, we'll refund you the price difference.

Refund Terms & Conditions

The following conditions apply to all lowest price guarantee refund requests:

  • The lowest price guarantee is available to any customer who makes a qualifying purchase through our website. The qualifying purchase must be a minimum of US$20 (or equivalent).
  • The lowest price guarantee covers retail and prepaid rates available to the general public. This does not include discounts or promotions you may receive (or be eligible for) from third-party sites or organizations such as AAA or AARP or special offers made as part of a membership program, corporate discount, daily deal, group, or rewards program.
  • Cool Destinations promotions cannot be combined with the lowest price guarantee.
  • If you find a lower retail or prepaid rate for the same tour, offered on the same date, time and priced in the same currency as your original purchase, on any other website between the time you book on Cool Destinations and 48 hours before your trip starts, we will refund the difference.
  • The lowest price guarantee does not apply where a lower overall price is found by breaking down the purchased tour into one or more parts sold separately.
  • Cool Destinations reserves the right to verify the lower price details. Examples of acceptable forms of verification include a web screenshot or a web address.
  • All refund decisions will be made at the sole discretion of Cool Destinations.
Activity name

Free Cancellation

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (MDT).
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Sorting, ranking, and search results

Activity name

Cool Destinations wants to make your searches as relevant as possible. That's why we offer many ways to help you find the right experiences for you.

On some pages, you can select how to sort the results we display and also use filter options to see only those search results that meet your chosen preferences. You'll see explanations of what those sort options mean when you select them.

If you see a Badge of Excellence label, the award is based on average review ratings, share of bookings with a review, and number of bookings through Cool Destinations over a 12-month period.

The importance of any one factor over any other in a sort order varies, and the balance is constantly being reviewed and adjusted. We're always updating our systems and testing new ways to refine and improve your results to make them as relevant as possible to meet your needs.

Cool Support

Ask us anything!

Activity name

Cool Robot

Choose an option

Activity name

or

Cool Rewards Terms & Conditions

Activity name

Cool Rewards

  • Cool Rewards is a loyalty program operated by Cool Destinations. Rewards may be earned by any eligible person holding a Cool Destinations account, subject to the Cool Destinations customer Terms of Use.

Earning rewards

  • Rewards can be earned by making bookings on the Cool Destinations website. You will be able to see the value of the rewards you can earn during the booking process.
  • Earned rewards will be issued in a pending state and will move to a confirmed state 24 hours after the start time of the experience.
  • Earned rewards will be available to redeem once they are no longer in a pending state.
  • For bookings that are moved to a different travel date, the rewards will be redeemable after the amended travel date.
  • If a booking where rewards were issued is canceled, the earned rewards will not be redeemable and will be moved to a canceled state.

Redeeming rewards

  • To redeem rewards, you must be logged into your Cool Destinations account.
  • Any available rewards will be automatically applied the next time you make a booking, and their value will be deducted from your order at checkout, unless you choose not to apply them, which requires you to indicate this via the toggle switch. Bookings made using rewards are subject to the standard Cool Destinations Customer Terms of Use.
  • You will not be able to redeem only a portion of your available rewards at checkout. It is only possible to redeem all or none of your available rewards.
  • There is no minimum order value required to redeem your rewards. This means that you can pay for 100% of your order with rewards.
  • Rewards are non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
  • If rewards are redeemed against a booking that is canceled or refunded, the rewards will be reissued to your account.

Miscellaneous

  • You can check your Cool Destinations account to see the rewards you have collected at any time. You are responsible for ensuring that your rewards balance is correct.
  • We reserve the right to modify these Cool Rewards Terms and Conditions at any time, with or without notice, including the rules for earning and redeeming rewards. Any changes will be reflected in the updated Terms and Conditions.
  • We reserve the right to terminate the Cool Rewards program and cease issuing any further rewards on future bookings. All pending and available rewards balances will be honored.
  • By earning and redeeming rewards, you agree to these Terms and Conditions, as well as any subsequent changes made to them.