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The Red Rock Canyon - A Family Friendly Adventure in Waterton Lakes National Park
- andrewsco3
- Jul 31
- 10 min read
Updated: Sep 3
If you're visiting Waterton Lakes National Park and are looking for a fun adventure with kids, it's hard to beat a few hours at Red Rock Canyon. If you haven’t been yet, you definitely should - we consider it one of the best things to do in Waterton.
We’ve been coming here for almost 15 years, and even though we’ve explored just about every inch of the canyon bed, we still make a point of stopping every time we’re in the park. The brilliant red colour of the argillite never fails to amaze me, and it’s unlike anything else you’ll find across the Canadian Rockies.
It’s perfect for families and really is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place. You can stick to the accessible trail that loops around the top of the canyon for a scenic walk, climb down into the part of the canyon where it's shallow to dip your toes in the water, or take the kids on an adventure upstream to scramble through the creek and discover spots most people miss.
In this post, we’ll cover what to expect at Red Rock Canyon, why it’s such a fun stop with kids, and what to know before you go.
Important 2025 Update:
The Canada Strong Pass, which granted free admission to Canada's National Parks for the summer, ended on September 2, 2025. From September 3, 2025, a valid Parks Canada pass such as a Discovery Pass or daily entry fee is required for any time spent in the parks.
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Table of Contents
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How to Get to the Red Rock Canyon in Waterton
Red Rock Canyon is about a 20-minute drive from the Waterton townsite along the Red Rock Parkway, but if you’re entering the park from the park entry gate, you’ll actually turn off before you reach the townsite, where a clear sign marks the turn off.
If you’re driving from Calgary, it’s about a two and a half to three-hour drive. Be sure to check out our Waterton itinerary post, as it includes all the best places to stop along the way.
The drive stretches about fifteen kilometres along the Parkway. You pass open meadows and dramatic mountain backdrops and there is a good chance of spotting wildlife. Several viewpoints and pullouts give you easy places to stop and soak in the scenery. It is also a fun ride if you have rented e bikes in town.
This whole area was affected by the Kenow Fire in 2017, and while it’s heartbreaking at first to see the scarred landscape, it’s really interesting to watch the new growth and how the area is recovering. If you hike the Blakiston Falls trail, which starts near Red Rock Canyon, you’ll see this recovery in full effect.
There are two parking lots, an upper and a lower one. The upper lot is closer to the canyon and the best place to park for access to the canyon. On busy days, you might need to use the lower lot, but it’s just a few minutes’ walk from there. Both lots have washrooms and plenty of picnic areas.
Red Rock Canyon Map
Important: Red Rock Parkway is open seasonally, typically from mid-May to October. Outside of this window, the road is closed to vehicles. You can still access Red Rock Canyon in winter, but you'll need to hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski in.
Hiking the Red Rock Canyon Loop Trail
One of the best things about Red Rock Canyon is how accessible it is. In many parts of the Rockies, reaching scenery this beautiful often means hiking or navigating uneven terrain. Here, you can simply step out of the car and start exploring.
The 0.7 kilometre paved loop trail starts right next to the main parking area and runs along both sides of the canyon, with three bridges: one near the lot, one upstream and one downstream, making it easy to cross and complete the circuit.
The trail is mostly flat and accessible for strollers, older visitors or anyone looking for a gentler walk. You can complete the loop in about 15 minutes while enjoying great views into the canyon below.
While the kids and I scrambled up the canyon through the water, Susie and Granny followed along the trail above, tracking our progress while staying dry.
Exploring Inside the Canyon
The loop trail is fun, but the real adventure is down in the canyon itself.
There’s no official trail, but most people scramble down near the footbridge and tend to congregate around that area, so it can get busy on warm summer days and weekends.
The water is usually shallow, so it’s easy for almost everyone to dip their toes in and cool off - just be warned, it’s cold!
The farther you walk up or down the canyon, the more the crowds thin out and the quieter it gets.
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, head upstream. You’ll come across sections where you need to wade through knee-deep water, navigate around fallen trees, or cling to the canyon walls to stay dry. Our girls love the challenge of scrambling over the rocks along the way.
Downstream is a little easier, with some great natural rock slides where kids can slide down small waterfalls. On our most recent visit, we spent over two hours just playing in the water and exploring, so make sure to plan your day accordingly, because the kids won’t want to leave!
Pro Tip: Bring Water Shoes
I really can't stress enough that you should bring water shoes for both kids and adults. The rocks can be slippery and in some places really sharp so you’ll definitely want something to protect your feet. The last thing you want is to take a slip on the rocks.
We picked up some cheap ones up for less than $20 on amazon, and they’ve been worth every penny given how often we’ve used them.
Combine it with a Hike
If you’re up for more adventure, Red Rock Canyon and the parkway that leads to it offer access to a variety of hikes. Some are short and easy, perfect for families or a quick outing, while others are longer and more challenging for those looking to spend more time on the trail. Here are a few options to consider:
Blakiston Falls Trail
If you’re looking to extend your time at Red Rock Canyon, the walk to Blakiston Falls is a great option for families. It’s about 2 kilometres round trip and starts from the lower bridge that loops around the canyon, so you don’t have to move the car to do both.
The trail winds through a forest that’s slowly bouncing back after the Kenow Fire. It’s not paved, but the path is well-worn and easy to follow with only a bit of elevation.
At the end, two platforms give you a clear view of the falls and the valley below. Plan for 45 minutes to an hour round trip, depending on how long you stop at the lookout.
Crandell Lake Trail
Crandell Lake is a family-friendly hike that can be accessed two ways - the traditional and more popular route starts from the Akamina Parkway, but it’s also possible to begin from near Crandell Mountain Campground, just off the Red Rock Parkway.
The trail climbs gently through forested terrain to a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by rolling hills. It’s about 4 kilometres return with moderate elevation and typically takes 1.5 hours.
Bellevue Prairie Trail
This easy out-and-back trail is close to town and a good option for a short leg stretcher with kids. The wide path leads through an open field filled with wildflowers in early summer. While you can walk the full length, there is no need to go all the way, as the mountain views stay much the same throughout.
You can turn back whenever it feels right. Bears are often spotted in the open terrain, so stay alert as you explore.
More Challenging Options
For experienced hikers, several longer and more difficult trails are accessible from Red Rock Canyon or along the parkway:
Blakiston Valley Trail – About 20 kilometres return, this trail follows the valley deep into the backcountry and offers expansive views along the way.
Goat Lake Trail – A 12.5 kilometre return hike with roughly 400 metres of elevation gain. A great workout with a scenic alpine lake at the end.
Avion Ridge – A longer, more demanding route with big climbs and dramatic ridge views.
Twin Lakes – Another challenging option, with a remote setting that can be tackled as a long day hike or an overnight trip.
Tamarack Trail – A multi-day trek that links Red Rock Canyon with other backcountry areas through Waterton’s rugged high country.
What to Take With You
Water Shoes – I really can't stress this enough. Your day will be so much more enjoyable if you protect your feet. We picked up a couple of inexpensive pairs on Amazon for under $20, and they’ve been worth every penny given how often we’ve used them.
Food and Water – Bring lots of water! We recently bought both of our kids Camelbaks so that they can drink on the go and it has been a game changer! Bring plenty of snacks and gummy treats!
Swimwear – Even if you’re not planning to get wet, it’s smart to bring swimwear just in case, especially for the kids. Once you're by the creek, it’s hard to resist getting in.
A Change of Clothes – Goes hand in hand with bringing swimwear. If you're heading into the canyon, expect to get at least a little wet. At the very least, pack dry socks and shoes for the kids.
First Aid Kit – I always recommend bringing a basic first aid kit in your bag as a precaution. Some of the rocks inside the canyon are sharp so you might end up with a few small scrapes.
Bear Spray – You likely won’t need it in the canyon itself, but the surrounding trails are definitely bear country. We’ve seen a bear every single time we've visited Waterton, often close to the road and walking trails. Make sure to carry bear spray, keep it accessible, and know how to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Trail Wheelchair and Stroller Accessible?
Yes, the loop is paved, flat, and suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and older visitors.
Is the Hike Kid-Friendly?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, we think think that the Red Rock Canyon is the best thing to do in Waterton with kids. We often spend a few hours here and the kids never want to leave.
Is the Hike Dog-Friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed both on the trail and in the canyon. If you're planning to take your dog into the canyon, be respectful of others and find a quieter spot away from the main crowds, especially if your dog loves to splash around. Some areas of the creek bed can be rocky or sharp, so keep an eye on their paws if they’re not used to rough terrain.
Are There Any Washrooms or Toilets?
Yes, there are washrooms available at the Red Rock Canyon parking lot.
When does Red Rock Canyon open?
The canyon itself is always open, but vehicle access via the Red Rock Parkway is seasonal. The road typically opens around May 1 and closes by the end of October, depending on weather. In winter, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe along the closed road if you want to visit the canyon (although it will be covered in snow)
What geological features will I see at Red Rock Canyon?
The canyon showcases striking layers of red and green argillite, a sedimentary rock rich in iron that creates the vivid colors. Over thousands of years, flowing water carved the narrow gorge, smoothing the rock walls and creating the natural channels and pools that you see today.
What Wildlife Might I Encounter?
This is definitely bear country. We've seen plenty of bears along the road not far from the the canyon, and there are often bear warnings in the area. If hiking the trails close by, be bear aware, carry bear spray, and stay alert.
Other Things to do in Waterton Lakes
Red Rock Canyon is just one of many unforgettable places to explore in Waterton Lakes National Park. If you're looking for more ideas, start with our guide to the best things to do in Waterton. It covers all the must-see spots, top hikes, and unique local experiences.
If you are looking for a truly special stay in Waterton, I highly recommend staying at the iconic Prince of Wales hotel - the views of Waterton Lake are incredible.
If you’re early in the planning stage, our 1–3 day Waterton itinerary is perfect for helping you plan your days in the park. Whether you're just visiting for the day or staying for a weekend or longer, it outlines how to fit in the park’s highlights without backtracking or feeling rushed.
Planning a longer road trip? Waterton makes a fantastic start or end point for exploring the Canadian Rockies. We’ve put together a 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary, split into two parts, that covers Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Waterton - complete with timing suggestions and practical tips for families driving from Calgary.
Before you go, make sure you're set with the right park access. Our guide to Canada’s national park passes explains what kind of pass you need and where to get it.
If you want more kid friendly hikes in the Waterton, the Bear’s Hump offers one of the best views to effort ratios in the whole park. It is a short but steep trail that rewards you with sweeping views of the Waterton Valley.
For a longer option, Lower Bertha Falls is especially beautiful in early summer when wildflowers are blooming. You can also continue on to Bertha Lake if you want to extend the hike.
Another fun activity with kids is to drive the Waterton Bison Paddock loop. It is one of the few places in Canada where you can see plains bison from your car and it is a relatively quick stop to make when entering or leaving the park.
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