Waterton Lakes National Park Weather

Waterton Lakes National Park weather varies greatly throughout the year. Waterton Lakes National Park is mostly a summer destination, with most hotels and services closed between October and April.

SUMMER (July and August) is definitely high season. Simply said, the weather is unbeatable. The season is dominated by long, warm—and sometimes hot—days, everything is open, and there’s plenty to do and see. Crowds, higher lodging prices, and difficulty securing hotel and camping reservations are the downside of summer travel to Waterton.

Late spring and early fall are excellent times to visit Waterton Lakes National Park for two reasons: you’ll avoid the crowds, and you’ll save money. SPRING (mid-Apr. to late June) is notable for long days of sunlight (in late June it stays light until after 10 p.m.) and a sense of optimism for the upcoming warm months. Be aware, however, that many of Waterton Lakes National Park’s best sights and hiking trails lie at high elevations; some areas may be snowed in until late June. FALL (mid-Sept. to Nov.) can be delightful, especially September, with lingering warm temperatures and a noticeable decrease in crowds immediately after the long weekend (at the beginning of the month). While fall colours in general lack the intensity of those in the eastern provinces and New England, aspen scattered through the valley turns a brilliant yellow throughout high alpine areas in late September.

The weather plays an active role in creating Waterton Lakes National Park’s natural landscape. This corner of the province tends to receive more rain, snow, and wind—much more wind—than other parts of the Canadian Rockies. The wind is the most powerful presence in Waterton Lakes National Park. Prevailing winds from the south and west bring Pacific weather over the divide, creating a climate similar to that experienced farther west. These warm fronts endow the region with chinooks—dry winds that can raise temperatures in Waterton Lakes National Park by up to 40°C (104°F) in 24 hours.

Waterton Lakes National Park Current Weather Conditions

Current weather conditions in Waterton Lakes National Park are displayed below, or check out this page: Waterton Lakes National Park webcams.