Spanning a relatively small 122,788 acres, Waterton Lakes is the smallest national park in the Canadian Rockies, but it's also one of the best for quietly—and safely—observing the bears.

For a shorter Waterton Lakes waterfall walk (or snowshoe trip in winter) try the 3-mile (5.2-km) hike to Lower Bertha Falls. Leashed dogs are permitted on the moderately difficult trail ...

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a stop at the Prince of Wales Hotel to sip afternoon tea in its Royal Steward Dining Room and take in the spectacular views of Waterton Lake. The scenery from this ...

Hiking barely scratches the surface. You can take a boat out on Upper or Middle Waterton Lake, or visit Emerald Bay for swimming, paddleboarding (great exercise), and fishing if you have a permit.