Day Motor Trips

The area has a number of interesting day trips which can be well worth while.  I have enjoyed each of the following trips, but don't want to suggest that they would be the only motor trips that would be worth while in the Waterton area.  The first trip that I would suggest is simply to go to the end of both of the paved roads in the park.  These roads lead to Cameron Lake and Red Rock Canyon and go through diverse ecosystems and past a large number of photograph opportunities.  Don't neglect the Buffalo paddock which is located on the road to Pincher Creek and is just inside the park boundary. 

Next is a trip to the Crowsnest pass to visit the Frank Slide Interpretive Center, Belleview Mine, Fort McLeoud and Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump.  This is a long day, but I'm sure that you will find the attractions well worth while, especially if you are a bit of a history buff.

The third trip is a quick jaunt to Cardston to have a tour through the Remington Carriage Center.  There are a large number of old carriages in the center and the displays are fascinating.  If you are in luck, you might be able to talk to one of the carriage restore people who seem to be more than willing to share their carriage building experiences with all.  This is a very classy establishment with excellent displays.

One of the most spectacular mountain roads is the "Going to the Sun" road in Montana.  To get to the road, leave the park and take the road to the right over the Waterton River bridge.  Within a kilometer of the bridge, the road to Chief Mountain Customs breaks off to the right.  This road takes you through some parts of the park that are marshy and there have been forest fires in the area recently.  After you cross the boarder, continue on the road until it hits a main road going north and south.  Take the road to the right and continue on to the town of St. Marys.  At St. Marys, turn right to enter Glacier National Park.  After going through the park gate, continue to follow the Going to the Sun road to the other side of the mountain.  We usually spend some time at Avalanche picnic area and take the "Walk of the Cedars" before turning around and going over the pass once again and back to Waterton.  This road is not for the nervous driver, but is well worth the time and the scenery is breathtaking.


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