Canada · North America · cycling

Waterton Lakes – Vimy Peak Route

The Vimy Peak Route offers splendid views of the prairie and lakes of Waterton Lakes National Park.

Summit DayBorder CountryBig Sky
26.6kmDistance
1,202mAscent
1,202mDescent
5h 30mEstimated Duration
Grade 5Vertigo Scale

Trail Overview

DayRoute Distance Ascent Descent Duration
Day 1Waterton Lakes – Vimy Peak Route26.6 km↑1,202m↓1,202m5h 30m

Route Map

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Description

The biking trail starts at the highway and leads you through plains covered in high grass. At kilometer 6.7 the hiking Vimy Peak Route starts. The first part leads you through dense wood up to ‘Lions Head’. Then you will walk through subalpine meadows until you reach the rocky part of the mountain. Follow the faint, steep trail winding up on the right-hand side of the mountain until you reach the peak. From the top you will have beautiful views of the plains You can descent the same way or, as we did, do a loop.

For those of you suffering from vertigo: Starting at kilometer 6.5 of the hike, some parts are exposed. The peak is broad with one side falling almost vertical. The other side, however, poses no risk. We then followed the Vimy Ridge Route for approximately 300m and then descended to the Vimy Peak Route. Following the Ridge Route can be very difficult as the right-hand side of the trail is very exposed and the left-hand side is very steep (grading >40°).

What to bring

Tips

Downloads

Vimy-Peak-Bike1Download

Vimy-Peak-Hike1Download

Vimy-Peak-Bike2Download

Places & Landmarks

FAQ

How difficult is the Vimy Peak Route?

Hard. The 26.6 km bike and hike combination gains 1,202 m. The hike section from kilometer 6.7 is steep, and parts of the peak and ridge route are exposed with steep drop-offs.

Is this trail suitable for people with vertigo?

No, it is rated vertigo grade 5. Starting at kilometer 6.5 of the hike, some parts are exposed, and the peak has one side that drops almost vertically. The Vimy Ridge Route that follows is also very exposed on one side.

Do I need bear spray?

Yes. We saw no bears but found a lot of scat. Be especially careful when biking, as you move faster and are harder for bears to hear approaching.

Can I hike the whole trail instead of bike?

Yes. You can hike the entire route, or arrange a boat transfer from Waterton to the trailhead to skip the biking section.

What should I bring?

Bring shoes you can both bike and hike in, bear spray, and standard bike and hike essentials. A lock is not needed if you hike the whole way, but plan your bike security if you combine modes.