Last updated on May 20th, 2026
Red Rock Canyon has long been a favorite area for hiking in Waterton Lakes National Park. The trip detailed here occurred in 2014, years before wildfires swept through the park. Today the forest in this area looks very different, but in spring it will be awash in wildflowers.
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Exploring Red Rock Canyon
On a hot summer day, as it was when we visited, families flock to Red Rock Canyon in the northern section of Waterton Lakes National Park. Here, kids of all ages can play in the cool water as it tumbles through striking red canyon walls worn smooth over time.
Shady paths line the small canyon’s rim for those who seek a cool and quiet spot from which to enjoy the view from above.
I wish there were fewer people here today! The canyon’s striking red argillite layers glow in the warm sun, making it a photographer’s dream. I’d love to be able to focus on the beauty of the canyon itself without other visitors (and their belongings) sneaking into my images!
Red Rock Canyon is located at the end of the 9-mile Red Rock Canyon Parkway in Waterton Lakes National Park. The parkway is a scenic paved road. It is open seasonally and has a few narrow spots that limit access by some larger vehicles.
Linking to Travel Photo Monday at Travel Photo Discovery where a world of travel images await.
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Never made it here when I visited a few years ago but did get a taste of the red rock on a hike to Lineham Ridge. It is a photographer’s dream and what a place to be during the golden hour.