If you love RV travel and national parks, you might already have Glacier National Park on your bucket list. or you may have discovered it through our guide to experiencing Glacier in a Grech RV. Just north of the U.S. border lies Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada — often referred to as Glacier’s “sister park,” yet quieter, richly scenic, and ready to offer a more personal connection with the landscape.
In the video Waterton Lakes – Glacier’s Overlooked Sister Park You Need to See!, Brian and Michele from Livin’ Our Vision set out in their Grech RV STRADA-ion, powered by GRECH POWER™, as they navigate through winery stops, border crossings, and alpine valleys — uncovering a destination that’s often missed but deeply rewarding.
This article brings that experience to life: how to plan your trip, what to explore, and why Waterton deserves a spot on your next RV itinerary.
Why Waterton Lakes Should Be in Your RV Travel Plans
Waterton Lakes National Park offers an unforgettable experience for RV travelers. With soaring peaks, pristine lakes, and a spirit of quiet exploration, it’s a destination where scenic beauty meets meaningful heritage. For those planning an RV route that values space, flexibility, and cross-border richness, Waterton deserves a prominent place on the map.
A Quieter Alternative to Glacier
While Glacier draws crowds, Waterton offers a more peaceful version of similar terrain — alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and native wildlife — without the wait for trailhead parking. The two parks together form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a worldwide heritage and a symbol of cross-border cooperation. This park represents a unique opportunity for RVers to experience an international destination with shared natural beauty.
Perfect for RVers with Flexibility
Because the infrastructure is less developed, Waterton encourages more spontaneous stops and scenic detours. In the video, the creators stayed at a White Raven Winery before entering the park — the kind of quiet, locally-owned stay that aligns with the flexible spirit of RV exploration.
Top RV-Friendly Highlights in Waterton Lakes
From scenic overlooks to historic landmarks and accessible trails, Waterton offers a series of memorable stops that are well-suited for those arriving by motorhome. These highlights showcase the park’s beauty, ease of access, and the kind of flexibility that RV travelers appreciate.
Cross the Border with Ease
Their route took them north from Glacier via Highway 6, entering Canada at a low-traffic border point. With passports and registration on hand, the process was straightforward — proving that a cross-border trip in a Grech RV can be both comfortable and simple.
Maskinonge Overlook & Driftwood Beach
Just before reaching the townsite, take in the wetland views at Maskinonge Overlook. Driftwood Beach, with its dramatic backdrop of the Prince of Wales Hotel, is ideal for a scenic stop and photo opportunity.
Waterton Townsite & Goat Haunt Boat Tour
The village of Waterton is full of pleasant surprises — charming shops, locally made food (including fresh gluten-free options), and an easy-to-navigate layout. The video showcases a shoreline cruise to Goat Haunt — a narrated boat tour that crosses into Glacier National Park and provides unique views of the international border from the water.
Bear’s Hump Overlook
This short, steep hike rewards you with incredible views of the townsite, lake, and mountains. A perfect way to break up driving time with a dose of elevation and perspective.
Prince of Wales Hotel
The iconic hotel, constructed in the 1920s, still stands proudly above Upper Waterton Lake. Built by the Great Northern Railway, the Prince of Wales Hotel reflects its U.S. counterpart at Many Glacier. From the dramatic windows to its preserved architecture, it remains a focal point in the park’s story — and even survived a regional wildfire.
Red Rock Canyon & Remote Drives
A short drive beyond town takes you to Red Rock Canyon, where red and green argillite layers trace the river through a stunning loop trail. Easy to walk, even better to photograph.
Planning Essentials for Your RV Trip
A successful RV experience in Waterton begins with smart preparation. While the park offers outstanding scenery and less crowded roads, it also requires a bit more self-sufficiency than more developed destinations. From border requirements to campground logistics, the details below will help ensure your visit is smooth, efficient, and rewarding — allowing you to focus on the views, not the variables.
Border Logistics & Entry Fees
- Bring all essential documents: passports, vehicle registration, and travel insurance.
- Entry to Waterton requires a day pass or Parks Canada Discovery Pass.
- Be aware of customs limitations on food, alcohol, and pets when crossing.
Fuel, Supplies & Camping
- Fuel up before you cross — options are more limited inside the park.
- Campgrounds like the Townsite Campground offer electric and full hook-up sites.
- A convenient dump station just outside the campground is free to use.
Wildlife Safety & Trail Prep
- Carry bear spray and stay aware of wildlife advisories.
- Some backcountry hikes (like Crypt Lake) require ferries or timed entry — plan accordingly.
Best Times to Visit
- Summer brings peak accessibility, open facilities, and boat tours.
- Spring and fall are quieter, but weather and road access may vary.
Why Grech RV Travelers Will Love This Route
- The video shows how the STRADA-ion, powered by GRECH POWER™, deals with long days, changing elevation, and off-grid stays. All while delivering quiet energy and uninterrupted comfort.
- With features like the Timberline heating system, Lithionics® 51V battery, and Garmin® control panel, the STRADA-ion keeps systems running smoothly whether you’re at a vineyard or in the shadow of the Rockies.
- For RVers looking to avoid cookie-cutter campground experiences, Waterton offers a more flexible and rewarding approach. With this in mind it is perfect for Grech RV owners.
The Soul of RV Travel, Redefined
Waterton Lakes National Park is evidence of what’s possible when design meets discovery. With fewer distractions, it invites deeper connection—to nature, to history, and to the road itself.
For those who travel not just to reach a destination, but to embrace the spaces in between, Waterton is waiting. Let your Grech RV carry you there—in style, in comfort, and with everything you need to savor the moments that matter most. You can either call 855-994-7324 or e-mail us at Sales@GrechRV.com.
